Fly fishing, an artful and adventurous endeavor, has captivated not just everyday anglers but also a bevy of celebrities. From award-winning actors to legendary musicians and even past presidents, these famous personalities relish the tranquility and thrill of casting a line. So, let’s dive into the world of Hollywood glamour, musical prowess, and political power to discover 25 celebrities who find joy in fly fishing.
1. Brad Pitt
Brad Pitt, Hollywood heartthrob, and seasoned actor, discovered the allure of fly fishing while preparing for his role in “A River Runs Through It” – a film that’s practically a love letter to the sport. This experience sparked an ongoing passion for fishing amidst Montana’s serene rivers. Now, he often retreats to these peaceful spots, sharing the joy of fly fishing with his family.
2. Harrison Ford
Harrison Ford, aka Indiana Jones, swaps archaeological adventures for fly fishing escapades. Owning a ranch in Wyoming, he frequently fishes the Snake River – though he wishes for more opportunities. We can only imagine Indiana Jones himself, deftly casting a line in his favorite river.
3. Jimmy Buffett
Jimmy Buffett, renowned musician and actor, is a dedicated saltwater fly angler. Given his Florida residence, he’s frequently seen navigating tarpon season with a fly rod in hand. However, his fishing expeditions aren’t confined to Florida – he also ventures to Montana’s stunning rivers for trout fishing.
4. Barack Obama
After serving as president, Barack Obama found a perfect stress-reliever in fly fishing. His love for this sport demonstrates how even the most powerful figures can find solace in the simple joys of casting a line.
5. Emma Watson
Emma Watson, known for her role in the Harry Potter series, is a fly fishing enthusiast. This passion stems from her father, who introduced her to the sport. Beyond fishing, she also ties flies and donates her creations to the Wild Trout Trust, showcasing her commitment to both fishing and conservation.
6. Oprah Winfrey
Oprah Winfrey, television host extraordinaire, enjoys fly fishing, although her hectic schedule limits her opportunities. You can find her in a famous photo from a Yosemite camping trip, where she was first introduced to the sport and got hooked.
7. Huey Lewis
Huey Lewis, celebrated musician and actor, learned to fly fish from his father in California. He now enjoys casting lines on his ranch in Montana, embodying the entertainment-to-angler transition that many celebrities experience.
8. Michael Keaton
Actor and director, Michael Keaton, is an ardent fly fisher. His love for the sport extends beyond personal enjoyment – he supports the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, advocating for the protection of these species.
9. Eric Clapton
Rock legend Eric Clapton’s love for fly fishing has led him around the world. Particularly known in Iceland, he has caught some of the country’s largest salmon and faithfully returns each year, aiming to reel in an even bigger catch.
10. Henry Winkler
Henry Winkler, fondly remembered as Arthur “Fonzie” Fonzarelli, is as passionate about fly fishing as any dedicated angler. His book, “I’ve Never Met an Idiot on the River,” is a testament to his love for this outdoor pastime.
11. Paris Hilton
Paris Hilton, socialite and reality TV star, dispels the glamorous image typically associated with her by expressing her love for fishing. She even has a fly named in her honor!
12. Jack Nicklaus
Pro golfer Jack Nicklaus has traded his golf club for a fishing rod, demonstrating his love for fly fishing, especially when bonefish are the target.
13. Jimmy Kimmel
Talk show host, Jimmy Kimmel, is equally comfortable casting a line as he is interviewing guests. Whether it’s chasing bonefish in the Bahamas or winter steelhead in Washington, Kimmel is an avid angler.
14. Kevin Costner
Kevin Costner, Hollywood’s beloved actor, director, and producer, is also a fly fisher. He often retreats to mountain streams, immersing himself in the peace and thrill of fishing.
15. Donald Trump JR
Donald Trump JR, the son of the former president, is a regular outdoorsman. His passion for fly fishing parallels his love for hunting, underscoring his affinity for the great outdoors.
16. Tom Brokaw
Tom Brokaw, former NBC news anchor, is a fly fishing enthusiast. He casts lines in places most anglers only dream of, proving that there’s always time for a fishing adventure, even with a daily news segment to deliver!
17. Liam Neeson
Irish actor Liam Neeson frequently embarks on fishing trips, embracing his heritage with salmon fly patterns on the Emerald Isle.
18. David Beckham
David Beckham, the iconic soccer player, has recently taken up fly fishing. He often shares this pastime with his sons, fostering family bonding and a shared love for the sport.
19. Martha Stewart
Martha Stewart, business tycoon and domestic diva, deserves a spot in the fly fishing hall of fame. She enjoys fishing on the rivers out west whenever her schedule permits.
20. Zac Efron
Zac Efron, the “High School Musical” heartthrob, loves fishing with his brother Dylan. They often head to New York to chase salmon and steelhead.
21. Lindsey Vonn
Lindsey Vonn, former World Cup alpine ski racer, swapped her skis for a fishing rod after several injuries. Now, she competes in fly fishing tournaments across the USA.
22. Luke Bryan
Country singer Luke Bryan, an avid smallmouth bass enthusiast, stands out among fly fishers. His preference for bass over traditional trout or saltwater fish sets him apart.
23. Reba McEntire
Country singer Reba McEntire learned to fly fish in the rivers of Tennessee. From the moment she cast her first line, she was hooked.
24. Gordon Ramsay
TV personality and celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay often recalls fishing for salmon on the Tay in Scotland during his childhood. As he can expertly cook a salmon, perhaps one day we’ll see him reel one in on a Scottish river.
25. George Bush Sr
George Bush Sr, the oldest living US president, loved flats fishing in Florida. He often participated in fishing tournaments and contributed significantly to fishing conservation, underscoring his commitment to preserving the habitats of the fish he loved.
In conclusion, fly fishing is not an exclusive sport for the everyday angler, but a shared passion among some of the world’s most famous figures. The tranquility and thrill it offers attract individuals from all walks of life, proving that the appeal of casting a line in a serene river or a bustling ocean truly knows no bounds.
If you’re inspired by these celebrity anglers and want to dive deeper into fly fishing, download our series of fly fishing books below and embark on your own angling adventure.
