02/26/2026
10 days until the Gala. Let's introduce our 4th guest, fly tying wizard Jarrod Mathena. We are very excited to have Jarrod this year.
Jarrod Mathena is a lifelong angler whose passion for fishing began in childhood and evolved into a deep dedication to fly tying and streamer fishing. Introduced to fly fishing at a young age in central Kansas, he developed his skills through creativity, self-guided learning, and years of hands-on experience. His career took a pivotal turn at age 21 while working in the Cabela’s Fly Shop, where he refined his casting and tying techniques and discovered the effectiveness of large, articulated streamers. Inspired by industry leaders such as Kelly Galloup, Tommy Lynch, Pat Cohen, Bob Popovics, and Blane Chocklett, Jarrod has spent more than 15 years honing his craft as a devoted “streamer junkie.” He is the co-owner of The Fly Armory, a custom fly-tying and bird-raising business, which he operates with his partner Jessi, producing patterns for freshwater, saltwater, and exotic species. Today, Jarrod is especially drawn to smallmouth bass, striped bass, and musky, while continuing to pursue trout and other aggressive predators throughout the Ozarks and beyond.
You can find Jarrod and his company, The Fly Armory, on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram. Plus on his website https://www.flyarmory.com/
Jarrod will have a table at the gala, plus will be doing a demonstration at 2 pm. Don't miss this opportunity.
