The 2025 iFishiBelong “Be What You Don’t See” campaign highlights leaders who are breaking barriers in the fishing industry. Each month, we will feature individuals who challenge conventions and inspire change with their passion and resilience, motivating the next generation of anglers to create their own paths and “be what they don’t see.”
By highlighting these trailblazers, we aim to inspire broader participation and show that leadership roles in the fishing industry are accessible to everyone, creating a more inclusive vision of success.
Meet five inspiring women who are shaping the fishing community in meaningful ways. This Pride Month, we celebrate these leaders who are creating inclusive and welcoming spaces in the outdoors and on the water.
- Anni Peterson (they/them) — Non-binary angler and community advocate from Denver, dedicated to amplifying queer voices and creating safe, welcoming fishing spaces.
- Dayle Woodward (she/her) — A proud 73-year-old trans woman and lifelong fly fisher, breaking barriers and inspiring others through her journey and work with Orvis.
- Demiesha Dennis (she/her) — Founder of Brown Girl Outdoor World, conservationist, and community builder from Toronto, dedicated to supporting BIPOC women in the outdoors.
- J. Michelle Swope (she/her) — Fly fishing instructor, guide, conservation advocate, and fly shop owner passionate about education and empowering women.
- Shelly Vo (she/her/they) — Fly fisher and founder of Flies and Friends, a fly-tying club focused on building inclusive spaces for queer anglers and people of color.
They are building a fishing community that is stronger and more inclusive for all. Stay tuned for the Pride panel and individual leader spotlights throughout the month.
May 2025’s Be What You Don’t See interview features Jessica Haydahl, a pioneering outdoor and fishing photographer whose 25-year career behind the lens has brought powerful representation to the male-dominated fishing industry, inspires others to blend their passion for the outdoors with
April 2025’s Be What You Don’t See interview features Chris Hill, grassroots organizer, public lands advocate, and CEO of the Conservation Lands Foundation.
The March 2025 “Be What You Don’t See” interview features aquatic entomologist, fisheries biologist, and environmental educator Anna Le (pronounced “Lay”), founder of Grayling Education.
The February’s “Be What You Don’t See” campaign highlights Michael Peters. Fly fishing guide and business owner Michael Peters about his journey from Wall Street to professional guiding. Discover how his passion for fishing, industry networking, and mentorship are shaping opportunities for Black and Brown anglers in the fly fishing community.
The January iFishibelong Be What You Don’t See campaign highlights our friend Justin Bubenik, founder of Fly Curious.