The History of Sportfishing is a documentary film series with twelve episodes exploring the pioneers, organizations, and inventions that transformed fishing from a means of survival to a life-giving sport. Director and producer Michael Fowlkes and his team of executive producers and writers highlight each pivotal development that helped progress sportfishing into the powerhouse it is today. A distinct feature of this story is its use of modern and vintage photographs, interviews with creators who shaped sportfishing, and over 40,000 feet of historical fishing films, all viewable in 4K.

From offshore big game saltwater fishing to freshwater bass fishing, this documentary series delineates the state of our fisheries and encourages anglers, scientists, and industry leaders to band together to protect sportfishing. Through their efforts, the fishing history timeline continues to progress forward.

The art of the fly dates back to the 1700s when it came from Great Britain to the colonies. In the mid-1700s, rod makers began making products designed specifically for fly fishing. One of the most historical advancements in fly rod construction happened in England when the first Calcutta cane bamboo shipments arrived from India. From there, fly rod manufacturing excelled, marking a breakthrough in the history of fishing rods.

Fishing in the 1800s had humble beginnings like linen lines, bone jigs, and small wooden boats. Early anglers had nothing but instincts, determination, and guts to earn their keep on the water. They didn’t have radios, satellite imaging, or modern-day tackle on board to land a big game fish, but despite that, they persisted. The shift from survival to sport happened in the 1800s.

The early to mid-twentieth century saw a rapid surge in the sportfishing fanbase because of the ingenious minds who propelled this sport forward. Unphased by failures and mistakes, anglers who were industry titans and local captains began developing innovations in every aspect of sportfishing, from rods and reels to tackle and electronics. This period showed American Ingenuity at its finest.

It’s no surprise fly fishing made its way from freshwater to saltwater. However, the tackle wasn’t durable enough to take on big gamefish and corrosive saltwater until the 1950s. Innovative anglers in South Florida were up to the challenge and paved the way for saltwater flyfishing.

Founded in 1939, the International Game Fish Association allowed anglers to start competing for a spot in the books as official world record holders. This title came with the ultimate bragging rights, trophies, and prizes to celebrate anglers’ efforts.

In 1967, Ray Scott hosted and organized the first All-American Bass tournament, bringing together 106 anglers to compete for a title. This tournament was the turning point for competitive bass fishing and became the model for anglers and promoters in the American bass fishing industry. Now fame and fortune were up for grabs, sharpening the competitive edge among anglers even more.

Tens of millions of anglers enjoy sportfishing each year, and from industry leaders to local guides and recreational anglers, all are seeking solutions. This sport will only exist with the successful management of aquatic ecosystems. Anglers must teach the next generation how to be stewards of the resource, from celebrating the history of fishing to living out the lessons learned with a rod and reel.

The legacy of sportfishing can continue through programs and initiatives like AFTCO's 10% pledge to protect and conserve. The American Sportfishing Association, International Game Fish Association, B.A.S.S., Coastal Conservation Association, and many other partners have committed to keeping the waters clean and protecting our right to fish. Here's to tight lines and chasing the thrill of a catch for generations to come.