Scott Fly Rods
In this Exhibitor Spotlight we’ll hear from Jim Bartschi, president and rod designer of Scott Fly Rods, about the history of Scott Fly Rods and what he’s most excited about Confluence 2023.
Introduce yourself - What is your role at Scott Fly Rods?
Jim Bartschi: I'm Jim Bartschi, President of Scott Fly Rods. I'm also the rod designer.
How did you find yourself working in the fly fishing industry?
Jim: I started out in Northern California as soon as I had a driver's license. My first jobs were in fly shops and guiding. During college, I'd hang out at the Scott rod shop bugging Harry Wilson with questions and casting rods. He finally told me to get the hell out or pick up a broom. The rest, as they say, is history.
I've been fly fishing for forty years. I fish year around, from local trout and panfish waters, to the furthest global destinations. I've been fortunate to fish pretty much all my bucket list species and destinations. I'm still in love with fly fishing. It's even more interesting, challenging, and satisfying to me today as when I first discovered it.
What is the history behind Scott Fly Rods?
Jim: Harry Wilson started Scott in 1974 in his basement in San Francisco, CA. Since its founding, Scott has been focused on one thing-handcrafting high performance fly rods.
What are you most excited about attending Confluence 2023?
Jim: I'm really looking forward to seeing the event move away from solely a pipe and drape trade show in a convention center to a gathering that presents many different opportunities to conduct business and network.
What issues have you witnessed the industry facing and how are you working to resolve them?
Jim: The industry faces many challenges and they aren't going away or resolving on their own. The environmental and economic headwinds the industry is heading into can overwhelm an individual. Together, we have a real chance of navigating them. The fight to save Bristol Bay is a great example. Our impact individually was small. Together, we helped protect one of fly fishing's most abundant and iconic fisheries.
I think that's one of the most important reasons we all need to come together each year. I'm excited for the presentations, round tables, and programming at Confluence. They will be thought provoking, solutions based, and no doubt, those conversations will carry on long after the hall doors have closed.
Anything else you’d like to add about Scott Fly Rods, the fly fishing industry, or the upcoming AFFTA Confluence event?
Jim: To reiterate what I said above, the fly fishing industry is at its best when we come together as a community. Come to Confluence for business, for pleasure, for education, or for all of it. Come to participate and be part of it. There will be something for everyone there.
