This month we’re excited to feature AFFTA member Bruce Chard as the AFFTA Member of the Month. Bruce is a Florida Keys-based fly-fishing guide… read below to learn more!
Explain your business — the who, what, why:
My business is mainly a full-time Florida Keys fly-fishing flats guide for tarpon permit and bonefish. I host saltwater fly-fishing schools internationally from the Bahamas, Belize, Mexico, Guatamala, Alaska and Canada. I also host fly fishing adventures around the world and am a paid speaker at fly clubs and fly fishing shows around the world.
What got you into guiding?
I started guiding right out of high school. It was my calling. I just loved to fly fish and it is my passion. So guiding was a no-brainer.
How has AFFTA membership benefitted you?
AFFTA membership has benefitted me to no end. The [IFTD] show itself is an unreal opportunity to meet other contacts within the industry that help grow my business every year, along with keeping up with the ever-changing fly industry products that help aid my customers.
What’s one thing you wish AFFTA members knew about your business?
How much I depend on the IFTD show to produce contacts that help my business, and that inevitably help my customers to become better anglers which then helps to grow the entire fly industry.
When you’re not guiding, what are you most likely to be found doing?
Playing tennis or watching movies, returning emails and writing my saltwater fly fishing book.
We’re always looking for new AFFTA members to feature. Email jess@affta.org if you’re interested!
