Anglers All 2000: Showing June 2000-January 2001 This summer, the Museum of the Rockies will be hosting Anglers All 2000, a dynamic celebration of fly fishing in America. This new exhibit, beginning June 3, originated at the American Museum of Fly Fishing, and has been enhanced by the curatorial staff of the Museum to highlight local and regional fly-fishing history. In the fly fishing world they could be unexcelled. "I'm lucky enough to have seen the remarkable objects that will be brought to Bozeman for this exhibit," said Paul Schullery, historian and guest curator. "It's safe to say that in the fly fishing world they are unexcelled for their rarity, quality and historical significance." Some of the best fishing gear was developed here. "The Museum of the Rockies is in a unique position to add the western perspective," explained Marilyn Wessel, museum director. "Many of western fly-fishing's greatest heroes are local residents. Some of the world's finest fishing gear was developed and is produced in this area." Three Men, Three Rivers. The Northern Rockies is well known for blue ribbon trout fishing and local fly-fishing legends. Three renowned Montana anglers, Bud Lilly, George Grant and Dan Bailey, will be featured in Anglers All 2000. Their fight to preserve the rivers they loved, the Yellowstone, Madison and Big Hole, documented in the video "Three Men, Three Rivers" will be a key part of the Montana venue. 100 years of fly-fishing Artifacts and products representing over 100 years of fly-fishing in Montana have been added, among them historic photographs from the museum's Photo Archive, Grant's framed collection of flies, and Lilly's creel and hat. "I once saw a fellow with a hat like this and it blew in the river. He had two strikes before he could get it out," Lilly remarked. Many famous people call fly fishing their favorite pastime. Well known fishermen whose personal gear is displayed in Anglers All 2000 include Zane Grey, Babe Ruth, Glenn Miller, Winslow Homer and seven US presidents. On exhibit are Ernest Hemingway's Hardy Fairy rod, Bing Crosby's pipe and hat with flies, General George Patton's creel, Daniel Wester's rod and George Bush's fly box. Anglers All 2000 is a commemoration of the rich experience and deep traditions of fly fishing. The exhibit captures the vibrant experience of fly fishing with angling artifacts, photos, video, eye-catching graphics and a variety of interactive elements. It focuses on the history of fly-fishing as art, science and sport worldwide with emphasis on educating visitors about fly-fishing and its relationship with the natural environments. Fun programs for the family Anglers All 2000 will include fun programs suitable for the entire family, both inside and outside the museum. Throughout the summer fly-casting, fly-tying exhibitions and local fishing opportunities are sure to entertain and educate. For more information about exhibits or educational programming, contact the Museum of the Rockies at (406) 994-2251. Submit Your Flies to the Museum of the Rockies The Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman invites fly tiers of all ages and skills to submit one of their favorite fly creations for display in the upcoming exhibit, Anglers All 2000 The museum wants flies from everyone, beginners to masters. Anglers All 2000: Humanity in Midstream, developed by the American Museum of Fly Fishing, makes it national debut on June 3, 2000 in Bozeman. A companion exhibit devoted to the history and lore of fly fishing in the Rocky Mountain region is being produced by the Museum of the Rockies and guest curated by historian Paul Schullery. "Montana may have no other craft more widely famous than fly tying," said Paul Schullery, historian and guest curator of the exhibit. "Over the past century, Montana fly tiers have participated in one of the richest folk art traditions in this country, and have influenced fly tiers everywhere." Schullery emphasized that the this invitation extends to everyone. In order to fully reflect all the styles and tastes out there, the museum wants flies from everyone, beginners to masters. "Even if you just started tying flies, don't be shy about sending us one," he explained. Fly pattern choice is also entirely up to the tier: "Whether your favorite pattern is an old standard or one you created yourself, send it along. They all are important in reflecting today's craft." Please send only one fly, of any style that you choose. In order to fairly accommodate as many flies as possible in the exhibit, flies should not be more than three inches long. It is essential that the name of the fly, as well as the name and town of the tier be included. Flies should be packed carefully, especially to avoid crushing the hackles of dry flies. Schullery suggests that a small box is better protection than an envelope. Flies should be sent to Museum of the Rockies, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717-2730. All flies will become the property of the Museum of the Rockies and will not be returned. Flies on display may be rotated depending on public response. Contributors are asked to included a signed release with their flies. Release forms are available at the museum's front desk or by calling 994-2251. "Unlike most sports, fly fishing provides every person with a special opportunity to show his or her personal creativity in making an essential part of the equipment. This collection will provide future researchers a wonderful window into the state of this craft at the turn of the millennium," Schullery said. For a short version, read What´s New Short News on everything Fly Fishing. See you by the waters Harry   Back to previous page