I love that Orvis|Tom and Joel are having this conversation. I too am a black fly fisher and have some of the same concerns with is it safe? I've seen some of the same and even times where people have questioned if you are "supposed to be here". I'm happy that for the most part it's been a welcoming experience.
Responding inline while watching/listening to the video from my perspective... Treating people of color like you would treat others on the water is all I personally would ask. Alvin Dedeaux from All Waters Guides was the first guide of color that I've ever had and it was A BLAST looking for reds in Rockport. Same goes for female guides... I've had one and she taught me a new technique and she put me on my first trout in Oklahoma. Just saying to show the same love to all helps. Sports usually break down barriers... if you haven't and question it you'll likely find that we are all the same. So so proud to see this. All the best fellow anglers. Time to catch fish!!!!
Talking about diversity and inclusion how can out of states or international enthusiast from at her countries like Mexico can get guide certifications? Specially if we can’t go to the states to get certified?
Yeah well I’m white and I fish urban and some suburban areas and I have to worry for my safety all the time. People talk crap sometimes and who knows if it’s racist or not but I’m sure some of it could be. Works both ways. Some people are just douchebags first and foremost.
If you want diversity in Fly Fishing, you need to Fly Fish if you are black, brown or whatever color you are HAHAHA! What a stupid topic to be discussing...
