Virginia Coastal Fly Anglers Honor Lefty with Film Screening and Community Celebration

Nearly 100 anglers and fly-fishing enthusiasts gathered at the Brock Environmental Center on July 17 for a heartfelt tribute to Lefty Kreh, the legendary fly fisherman whose influence continues to shape the sport. Hosted by the Virginia Coastal Fly Anglers (VCFA) in partnership with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF), the evening featured hands-on workshops, casting instruction, and an exclusive screening of the documentary Lefty: The Greatest of All Time.

Tying Tradition to Legacy

The event kicked off with a fly-tying class led by expert tier Kevin Du Bois, who guided participants through crafting the iconic Red and White Lefty’s Deceiver—a versatile saltwater pattern favored for species like striped bass, bluefish, and redfish. The fly, immortalized in the VCFA club logo, served as a tactile connection to Kreh’s enduring legacy. Both seasoned tiers and newcomers joined the session, sharing stories and techniques in a nod to Lefty’s inclusive spirit.

Outside, VCFA President and Fly Fishers International Master Casting Instructor John Adametz led a fly-casting demonstration, offering tips to improve accuracy, distance, and presentation. His instruction drew anglers of all skill levels, reinforcing Kreh’s belief that mastery of the cast is both art and science.

A Cinematic Salute to a Fly-Fishing Icon

The centerpiece of the evening was the showing of Lefty: The Greatest of All Time, a documentary produced by Fly Fisherman magazine. Through archival footage and intimate interviews, the film celebrated Kreh’s pioneering fly patterns, conservation advocacy, and commitment to angler education. For many in the room, it was a poignant reminder of the man who transformed fly fishing into a more accessible and inclusive pursuit.

The event was a collaborative effort involving the VCFA Conservation Committee and Board of Directors, the CBF, Virginia Beach Public Schools Environmental Studies Program, and Project Healing Waters. Organizers emphasized that the evening wasn’t just about honoring a legend—it was about strengthening the community and conservation ethos that Kreh championed throughout his life.

For VCFA, the celebration was a living embodiment of its mission: to promote fly fishing, protect aquatic ecosystems, and foster camaraderie among anglers. The blend of education, tradition, and storytelling offered attendees a chance to reflect on their own connections to the sport.

For future events and updates, visit VCFA.org or follow the VCFA on social media.

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