Orvis is throwing a little shindig today to benefit Montana TU. From Orvis’ site –
Ring in the 2013 fishing season in true Orvis style with the Down the Hatch Fly-Fishing Festival, held in downtown Missoula, Montana. On Friday, April 19, join Orvis, dozens of fly-fishing companies, and a host of local food and drink vendors in Caras Park to celebrate what will likely be the best year of fishing Montana has ever seen.
After the festivities outside, head across the street to the Wilma Theatre for a Fly-Fishing Film Festival sure to stimulate your primal need to fish. ??Could it get any better? Yes, actually. How about great beer from Big Sky Brewing and tons of prize giveaways, including a trip for two to El Pescador, Belize?
Here’s the breakdown:
- 2:00-5:00pm: Down the Hatch kicks off in Caras Park. Browse the vendor tents, demo all the sweet gear you can get your hands on, and grab some food before the beer truck arrives.
- 5:00-7:00pm: The party really starts. Lil’ Smokies will be playing their brand of Montana bluegrass and the beer will flow. In between songs and gulps of beer, keep your ears peeled for prize giveaways, mingle with vendors, and try out even more sweet gear.
- 7:00-9:00pm (with doors opening at 6:30): We’ll move the party across the street to the Wilma Theatre for a Fly-Fishing Film Festival. Grab a seat and stay tuned for some of the best fishing films the industry has to offer. In between mind-blowing films, we’ll be giving away the following: a trip for two to El Pescador, Belize; two days of guided fishing from PRO Outfitters; an overnight guided fishing trip at the Cottonwood Camp from WorldCast Anglers; two days of guided fishing (or rowing lessons) from Blackfoot River Outfitters; a pair of oars; throw bags and dry bags; Costa sunglasses and swag; Helios 2 rod outfits; and much, much more.
The event at Caras Park is free, however the tickets (which serve as your beer ticket, admission to the Film Festival, and as your raffle ticket for prize giveaways) can be purchased for $10 at Grizzly Hackle, 215 W. Front St. in Missoula, at Blackfoot River Outfitters, 3055 N. Reserve St. in Missoula, or at Caras Park the day of the event. Tickets are limited, so buy in advance. All proceeds from ticket sales will go to Montana Trout Unlimited. Anyone registered for the Guide Rendezvous will already have this ticket as part of the registration.
From the looks of today’s forecast for Missoula better bring the rain gear and your blue wing box…
