We are a community of women and LGBTQ+ anglers who share a love for fly fishing, the outdoors, and the connections that come with it. Our group was created to be an inclusive and welcoming space where people of all shapes, sizes, and identities can feel comfortable exploring the water together.
Whether you’re brand new to fly fishing or have been casting for years, you’ll find encouragement, laughter, and friendship here. We believe the outdoors belongs to everyone, and we celebrate the joy of learning, supporting one another, and finding empowerment in nature.
Together, we create a space that values inclusivity, kindness, and the belief that everyone deserves a seat at the table—or a spot on the riverbank.
Follow us on Instagram @gills_and_gals_pdx and join us on the water!
The Growing Impact of Women in Fly Fishing
If you are a woman and you have been interested in new hobbies, maybe even hobbies that have been seen as dominated by men, you aren't alone. Fly fishing has become a growing hobby for women of all ages aross the United States.
- Women now make up 31% of the 8.1 million fly fishing participants in the United States (2023 data)
- There has been a 25% increase in the number of women fly fishing since 2006
- Record-breaking participation: 21.3 million women went fishing in 2023, the highest number since tracking began in 2007
- Female participation in fishing has seen an 8% increase since 2019
- 4.2 million Americans tried fishing for the first time in 2023, with women representing a significant portion
The days of fly fishing being old what males is over and we are excited to see this change. We believe fly fishing is more than a a hobby or sport, it is a passion that we have seen help people heal from lifes struggles.
In some recent articles in Fly Fisherman (maybe we should petition to change that name) and Fishing on Sports Illustrated we can see the impact women are having on the numbers of female fly anglers.
Creating an Inclusive Fly Fishing Community
At NWFFO, we believe fly fishing should be accessible to everyone. Our commitment to inclusivity includes:
- Female-led instruction and communities
- Gear specifically selected for women anglers
- Women's Waders
- Women's Boots
- Women's Jackets
- Women's Apparel
- Welcoming environment for all skill levels
- Regular women's-only events and workshops
Getting Started: Resources for Women Anglers
Join Our Growing Community
Whether you're a seasoned angler or curious about trying fly fishing for the first time, NWFFO welcomes you. Visit our shop, join our classes, or connect with our community of women anglers.