Henry’s Fork Anglers celebrates their 50th anniversary this month, with events spanning August 10-15. All are open to the public, and include panels, fly tying demonstrations, and special events to honor the community behind the iconic outfitter and shop.
Founded in 1976 by Mike and Sheralee Lawson, Henry’s Fork Anglers started as a small fly shop in Island Park, Idaho on the banks of the storied Henry’s Fork. With guiding access to the prominent fishery, Mike and Sheralee were soon at the helm of a premier destination fly shop and outfitting service. In 1999, Mark Rockefeller purchased Henry’s Fork Anglers, but Mike and Sherlee continued to manage the business, expanding their guided fishing opportunities through permits on the South Fork of the Snake River and the Teton River.
“For fifty years we’ve had the privilege of sharing our passion for fly fishing with people from around the world. This celebration honors the guides, employees, customers, family, and friends who have been part of Henry’s Fork Anglers’ story. We look forward to continuing that tradition for years to come”, founder Mike Lawson said.
Today, Mike and Sheralee’s son, Chris Lawson, serves as general Manager and outfitter, continuing the family-run legacy.
The week kicks off with “Women in Fly Fishing”, a panel discussion moderated by Katie Stroud, featuring Maggie Heumann, Sheralee Lawson, Karlie Loftice, Madison Losee, and Kris Millgate. Events to follow include “Improving Your Fly Casting” with Chris Lawson, “Fly Fishing Photography Using Your Smartphone” with Brian O’Keefe, and “Guides of the Decades”, a panel discussion featuring Jim Vermillion, Mike Atwell, Michael Langford, Joe Bare, and Colton Schofield, representing five decades of guiding on the Henry’s Fork and surrounding waters.
Mike has also tied 50 framed “Flies of the Decade” sets for the occasion, each featuring five proven patterns representing five decades of Henry’s Fork Anglers. The first 30 frames are available now, and you can buy yours here.
Events begin each day at 6 p.m., all take place at the shop, and include door prizes.
Read more on the last 50 years of Henry’s Fork Anglers here, and if you want a peek into Mike Lawson’s expertise, you can read his evergreen article on why “matching the hatch” doesn’t always put more fish in the net, written for MidCurrent in 2011.
