October 16, 2026
A Message from the President
Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum | Fall 2026
As another season comes to a close here in the Catskills, I want to take a moment to reflect on what has been a productive and rewarding year for the Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum. With the busy summer months now behind us and the quieter winter season approaching, I am pleased to report that the Center continues to make meaningful progress in preserving our history, strengthening our facilities, and advancing our mission.
Throughout the spring, summer, and early fall, we enjoyed another successful season of events, educational programs, and gatherings that brought together members, supporters, and friends of the fly-fishing community. From our educational offerings and youth programs to our annual celebrations, including the recent Hall of Fame induction, these activities continue to demonstrate the important role the Center plays in preserving and sharing the traditions of our sport. None of this happens without the dedication of our staff, volunteers, committee members, and Board of Trustees. Their commitment throughout the year is what allows us to continue moving forward, often with limited resources but always with a shared appreciation for what this institution represents.
Investing in Our Future
One of the accomplishments I am particularly proud of is the significant progress we have made in upgrading the heating, air-conditioning, and humidity-control systems throughout our facilities. As many of you know, our Museum and Archives HVAC improvements have been completed, providing the environmental controls necessary to protect our historic collections and irreplaceable artifacts for generations to come. These improvements were made possible in large part through the generosity of those who supported our successful 60 Days, $60,000 fundraising campaign which realized over $70,000.
We also completed the HVAC improvements to our Rod Shop ahead of last winter. This was an important priority, particularly given the shop's role as a year-round educational facility. Providing a comfortable, properly controlled environment for our rod-building classes, instructional programs, and youth activities was essential to maintaining the quality of the educational experience we offer.
I am especially pleased to share another significant development regarding the Wulff Gallery. The Center was previously awarded an $80,000 capital grant through the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA), originally designated for improvements to the Museum's HVAC systems. However, following the successful completion of that work through our 60/60 fundraising initiative, we recognized an opportunity to put those grant funds to equally important use elsewhere on our campus. Rather than allow that opportunity to pass, we approached NYSCA with a request to revise the original grant narrative and redirect the funding toward the installation of three new HVAC systems serving the Wulff Gallery. This was no small undertaking. The process required considerable documentation, revisions, and coordination over an extended period. I want to personally recognize and thank Samantha Laserson, whose efforts were instrumental in helping secure approval for this important change. I am delighted to confirm that our request was approved, and work on the Wulff Gallery systems is now underway. The entire $80,000 grant will be applied toward these improvements, providing heating, air conditioning, and humidity control for this important exhibition space.
With the completion of this final phase, we will have accomplished something that has been a priority of mine for several years: bringing modern environmental controls to all of our principal buildings. This represents a substantial investment in the preservation of our collections, the comfort of our visitors, and the long-term sustainability of the Center.
Preserving Our History
Beyond the improvements to our facilities, important work has continued within our Archives and Collections. Throughout the year, our dedicated volunteers have worked to organize, document, preserve, and expand the historical materials entrusted to the Center. From the continued preservation and digitization of historic correspondence and documents to the acquisition and research of significant artifacts, this work remains at the very heart of our mission. While much of it takes place quietly behind the scenes, its importance cannot be overstated.
I want to extend my personal appreciation to our Archives committee and everyone involved in caring for these collections. Their knowledge, dedication, and attention to detail ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to better understand the people, craftsmanship, and traditions that shaped American fly fishing.
Looking Ahead to Winter
As we transition into the slower winter months, our focus will naturally shift toward our indoor educational programs, collections, archives, and planning for the coming year.
Although visitor activity traditionally slows during this period, much of the important work of the Center continues behind the scenes. Winter provides an opportunity to evaluate our progress, maintain our facilities, strengthen our programs, and prepare for another successful season. I have always believed that the true measure of an institution such as ours is not simply the number of events we host or visitors we welcome, but the lasting improvements we make and the legacy we leave for those who follow.
Over the past several years, we have worked hard to strengthen the Center's foundation, improve our facilities, expand our relationships with supporters, and ensure that the history entrusted to our care is properly preserved. There is always more work to be done, but I believe we have made meaningful and lasting progress.
A Personal Note
As I conclude this seasonal update, I would also like to share that this will be my final President's Update to our membership. It has been both an honor and a privilege to serve as President of the Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum for the past seven years. During that time, we have faced our share of challenges, celebrated many accomplishments, and, most importantly, worked together to strengthen an institution that holds a very special place in the history of American fly fishing.
I take great pride in what we have accomplished together, particularly the improvements to our facilities, the preservation of our collections, and the relationships we have built with members, donors, and supporters who believe in our mission. I have always believed that the strength of an organization is measured not only by what it accomplishes today, but by the foundation it establishes for tomorrow. I am confident that the next chapter of leadership will build upon the progress we have made, bringing fresh perspectives, renewed energy, and a continued commitment to preserving the Center's important legacy.
While my time as President is coming to a close, my appreciation for this institution and the many friendships I have made along the way will certainly remain.
To our Board of Trustees, staff, volunteers, members, and supporters, thank you for the trust you have placed in me and for the opportunity to serve. It has truly been a privilege.
I wish everyone a wonderful holiday season and continued success for the Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum in the years ahead.
Best Regards,
Anthony J. Magardino, Board President & CEO
