About the Driftless Angler

How it All Started

"Wisconsin?! Why the hell would you want to move there?" From the initial pitch to my wife and family, to sharing my idea with fellow anglers in the Rockies, the reaction was always the same. Their wide eyed stares said it all. What person in their right mind would leave the fishing out West and head to what they thought was a no name town, in a no name area of Wisconsin to open a fly shop? They were ready to check me in to the asylum.

After the initial shock I calmly began to explain what an incredible fishery there was in the Driftless Area. I explained the thousands of miles of spring creek water, the close proximity of the creeks, the easy public access, and the ability to leave the crowds and fish water much more intimate and relaxing than anything they had seen on the steep slopes of the Rockies. After a while their jaws were picked up off the floor, their eyes shrunk to normal size, and the conversation always ended with them saying, "Wow, that sounds like paradise, when can I come out and fish."

The Southwest corner of Wisconsin now has a central location for anglers to gather information, share stories, and pick up supplies. The shop will be open February 20th, 2007. Stop by for a visit, and wet a line, to see for yourself one of the most remarkable and unique fisheries in the country.

Mat Wagner
Owner, Driftless Angler