2016 Sowbug Roundup

On April 14-16, 2016 the 19th Annual Sowbug Roundup was held in Mountain Home, Arkansas. The Sowbug Roundup is one of the largest fly tying shows in the US, and this year over 150 tyers demonstrated for over 1,000 attendees during the three-day event. Partridge PRO-Team members Chris Reeves, Peggy Brenner, and Tradd Little were among the many tyers who shared their skills with the visitors. 

Chris was very popular at this year’s show, and the local newspaper published a front-page article about his trip from the UK. CLICK HERE for a link to the article. Peggy taught a class on tying Classic Streamer patterns and also demonstrated at the Featured Fly Tyer table using a large video screen so that the crowd could see the detail at her vise. Tradd was fortunate enough to win five different categories in the annual fly tying contest (Wet Fly, Dry Fly, Nymph, Salmon/Steelhead, and Salt Water).  He also won the blindfolded Wooly Bugger Contest which was a fun event for all.

The money raised during the Sowbug Roundup is used to finance the North Arkansas Fly Fishers’ environmental and philanthropic activities. Each year, $10,000 is allocated for scholarships to students majoring in the fishery or environmentally related fields. 

Each day of the event was filled with fly tying and fly fishing seminars and instruction for both youth and adults. The Sowbug Shindig on Friday night included a BBQ and beef brisket dinner as well as an awards ceremony and live auction. It was a great weekend of fly tying, food, fun, and fellowship as everyone enjoyed spending time together with old and new friends that are made each year during their annual visit to Mountain Home.

You can view hundreds of more pictures of smiling faces and the fun that was had by all on the Sowbug Roundup Facebook page HERE.

Chris Reeves & Tradd Little

Peggy Brenner

Tradd Little - Wooly Bugger Contest