Fürstenfeld Exhibition Center on Fürstenfeld Monastery grounds; Home of EWF
There are fly fishing shows… and then there’s EWF—Erlebniswelt Fliegenfischen—the 20th anniversary event that took place in the stunning, historic town of Fürstenfeldbruck, Germany, nestled just outside of Munich. This wasn’t just a show—it was a celebration of craftsmanship, conservation, and community on a global scale, and we were deeply honored to be a part of it.
Fly tying space in the centuries-old rafters for the ultimate ambiance
We were invited by the incredible Robert and Michaela Stroh, the heart and soul behind EWF, who (along with their family) instantly made us feel like family too. Their warmth, generosity, and attention to detail are what make this event so special. The venue? None other than the breathtaking Fürstenfeld Monastery, a centuries-old structure that is both spacious and intimate. Vaulted ceilings, sun-drenched beer gardens, and echoes of history made every moment feel like something out of a dream.
Sharing a laugh with Barry Ord Clarke (a scholar and a gentleman, if you’re wondering)
Inside, we found ourselves among some of the best fly tyers in the world. Sharing the venue with legends like Barry Ord Clarke and Hans van Klinken was both humbling and inspiring. Every booth was a masterclass, every conversation a chance to learn, share, and connect. The vendors were top-tier—from boutique fly shops to renowned brands—offering the finest tools, materials, and stories behind every product.
Spey casting lesson with Tom Brown
And when we weren’t tying? You could find us by the casting pools, watching world-class casters put on absolute clinics with their technique and grace. Or grabbing a pretzel and a cold beer in the beer garden, swapping stories with anglers from every corner of the globe. (We’re pretty sure “beer and flies” is a universal language.)
We were also incredibly moved by the work being done by the Atlantic Salmon Trust, who ran a tombola (like a raffle)to raise money for wild salmon conservation. It was a beautiful reminder that fly fishing is as much about protecting what we love as it is about enjoying it.
To everyone who’s ever considered going: this is your sign. Book the flight. Make the trip. You’ll leave with new skills, new friends, and unforgettable memories. And for those who do… we’ll see you there next year—because we’ve officially been invited back for EWF 2026.
From the bottom of our hearts—thank you, EWF.
Demonstrating my salmon eggs for some visitors
