Fly Fishing Show pulls plug on five 2021 events

Five of the six 2021 Fly Fishing Shows in the US have been postponed or cancelled due to Government and facility-imposed COVID restrictions.

“Reluctantly, and with a heavy heart, we have been forced to cancel, postpone or reschedule everything due to the impact and continuing threat of COVID-19,” said Ben Furimsky, President and CEO of the annual events. The only event still on track for its original date is Lancaster, Pennsylvania, on March 6 and 7.

The updated schedule reads:  Marlborough, Massachusetts – postponed until 2022; Edison, New Jersey – postponed until 2022; Atlanta, Georgia – postponed until 2022; Pleasanton, California. – the original February. 19, 20, 21 dates cancelled with the possible availability of some time in April; Lancaster, Pennsylvania – March 6 and 7; and Denver, Colorado. – rescheduled for April 30, May 1 and 2.

Furimsky named a number of reasons behind his decision, including restrictions on exhibitor booths, presentations, demonstration areas, seminars and the continued inability or reluctance of many out-of-state and overseas exhibitors to travel.

“The Fly Fishing Shows are some of the most highly anticipated gatherings annually, when our community can see what’s new, test products, make purchases, book travel, renew friendships and reignite the fire that drives us all to carry on the traditions of fly fishing,” he lamented. “This pandemic has been a financial disaster for communities, show facilities and hotels that rely on the thousands of Fly Fishing Show visitors annually. 

“We have worked extremely hard in an effort to not give up on those who depend on our events. But an essential consideration for attending meetings and trade shows is having a sense of safety and security.”  Dates for the 2022 Fly Fishing Shows will be announced when confirmed.