2017 Catskill Legends

Founded in 2014, the CFFCM Catskill Legends honors four individuals who have contributed their expertise to impact, educate and share the history and knowledge of the Catskills. They continue the tradition of Catskill fly fishing community started long ago when anglers began to wet a line in the local waters. It is these individuals who have kept the Catskill spirit to protect the area as a premier fishery of interest to all who visit the local streams and surroundings. The Legends are fly fishing pioneers who discovered and appreciated the richness of the rivers and stream in the Catskills. They are conservation stewards, authors, historians, and anglers who have shared their Catskill experience and allowed others to follow in their footsteps to create their own experience. Their heritage is the cornerstone for future generations of legends.

This year on April 1st, the Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum will recognize: Dave Brandt, Ralph Graves and Sue Post as Catskill Legends.

Ceremony and Recognition Dinner
April 1, 2017 in the Wulff Gallery
Reception at 5:30 PM
(Beer and Wine, cash bar available)
Silent Auction 5:30 — 7:00 PM
Dinner 6:30 PM

Catskill Legends are the fly fishing pioneers who discovered and appreciated the richness of the rivers and streams in the Catskills; the champions of these waters who protected every inch that flowed; the authors and historians who shared the romance of the Catskill experience. These are the individuals who have kept the Catskills alive for future generations to enjoy. Each year three Catskill Legends have been recognized:

2014 – Phil Chase, Austin “Mac” Francis, Floyd Franke

2015 – Francis Davis, A.E. Hendrickson and Sam Hendrickson, Frank Kuttner

2016 – Stan Cooper, Jr., Tom Satterthwaite, Ray Smith

Dave Brandt has been tying flies, casting and fly fishing for more than 45 years. In addition to his skills in tying and casting, he is an educator at heart. He has taught for over 30 years at the Wulff School of Fly Fishing and enjoys teaching others the basics of casting and entomology, as well as cultivating an appreciation for the beautiful places found on angling adventures. Currently, Dave is President of the Catskill Fly Tyers Guild and continues carrying on the Catskill tradition of fine tyers. A retired tool designer and manufacturer, he lives in Oneonta.

Ralph Graves was a staple of the area and a treasured friend to many anglers. He owned Old Glory Fly Shop, located next to the Rockland House in Roscoe. A US Navy veteran, he was widely known as the inventor of the Old Glory fly, which showcased his distinct and detailed tying skills, along with his creative and artistic eye. Ralph was known for his wry sense of humor. The annual CFFCM golf tournament in August is named in his honor. He passed away in July 2014, and this recognition is being done posthumously.

Sue Post is connected to many of the anglers who first stepped into her business – Fur, Fin and Feathers – to gather information on local river conditions and purchase supplies from the shop. They also learned a lot from her about the basics of fly tying and outdoor skills. Sue continues to greet visitors and customers with her husband Rich at their store located on DeBruce Road in Livingston Manor.