The Art of Fly Fishing: Entrepreneurship, Conservation & Community

As a part of the 2026 Colorado Startup Week festival, Union Hall is producing and hosting an event that centers the outdoor recreation industry. A panel of Colorado fly fishing business leaders will gather at the gallery for a holistic conversation on the environmental, economic, and social benefits of the sport.

About the Event

Fly fishing is a powerful driver of Colorado's outdoor economy, environmental stewardship, and entrepreneurial innovation. This session includes industry leaders, conservation experts, and founders for a dynamic panel discussion exploring how fly fishing has become a catalyst for business creation, sustainable resource management, tourism, education, and community building across the state. From launching niche outdoor brands and expanding access for underrepresented anglers to protecting the rivers that support local economies, our panelists will examine how innovation extends far beyond technology.

We'll discuss the evolving landscape of the fly fishing industry, the economic impact of outdoor recreation, emerging opportunities for entrepreneurs, and the partnerships that ensure Colorado's rivers remain healthy for future generations.

Topics for discussion may include:

- Protecting the Resource

- Building Businesses

- Growing Communities

- The Future of the Outdoor Economy

Panelists

- Lani Kitching // Chair of the Colorado Wildlife Council // West Slope Angler Representative for Colorado Parks and Wildlife // owner of Proudline Guided Flyfishing

- Dylan Demery // Owner/Co-Founder of She's Fly

- Dr. Andrew Todd // founder and executive director of Running Rivers

- Tim Emery // Chairman of Colorado Wildlife Federation

- Peter Stitcher // Aquatic Biologist and owner of Ascent Fly Fishing