Some years ago, a loosely knit group of fly anglers and fishing tackle collectors began a tradition of a yearly get together on the banks of the trout rivers of the Catskills. We swapped stories old and new, traded tackle and rekindled friendships with distant anglers. We called this tradition “The Gathering”, and it brought likeminded folks from the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states but also from as far away as California. Most of these “Gatherings” were held either on the Willowemoc or East Branch of the Delaware River but when my sister Sandy MacMaster and her husband Bob Sauter bought a little farm in Stilesville (Deposit) NY on the banks of the West Branch in 2018, we knew “The Gathering” had found a new home.  

After some discussion with the original group, we decided to make what was originally an invitation only party open to everyone with an interest in fly fishing, fly tackle, and the Catskill rivers. We also opened the event to dealers and vendors of Classic, Used, and New fly-fishing tackle to display and sell their wares. The First Annual “West Branch Classic Fly Festival” will be an opportunity to see old friends, meet new ones, talk fishing, and shop the many tables for some of the finest fly-fishing tackle to be seen anywhere.

We will also be hosting fly casting demos and clinics, discussions of some of the finer points of bamboo rod making, and an elite roster of fly tyers, including on Sunday, September 5, world famous author Mike Valla.

We wish to extend a sincere invitation to anglers and non-anglers of all ages and levels of skill to join us on Labor Day weekend as we celebrate the Catskill Rivers, fine fly tackle and our Angling Heritage. Hours are 10AM to 5PM Saturday and Sunday September, 4 & 5. Admission and parking is free to attendees. We hope to see you there!

If you desire additional information, please contact John Shaner (johnshaner56@gmail.com), Bob Selb (classicflyfishermanrrs@gmail.com) or Sandra MacMaster (610-256-0605).

Dealers, vendors,               and makers include:

Hoagy B. Carmichael

Robert Selb, The Classic Fly Fisherman

Diane McCabe Angling Jewelry, Clothing, and Accessories

Grauer’s Fine Tackle

Fred Grafield Vintage Tackle

Badger Creek Fly Tying

Belvoirdale/Gaelic Supreme

Dana Gray Carlson Rod Company

Angler’s Refuge Guide Service

Dun and Dun Fine Art Prints

Little River Rods

Pentalux Rods

Paparazzi Jewelry

Catskill Fly Fishing Center

Ideuema Creek Alpacas