iFishiBelong
In July, ifishibelong’s Be What You Don’t See Campaign and On the Real with Ubuntu Fly Anglers featured Mario Guel, founder of fly fishing outfitter and lifestyle brand, Taco Fly Co.
In this heartfelt episode of iFishiBelong: Be What You Don’t See from the On the Real podcast, Mario Guel, founder of Taco Fly Co. and advocate for Brown Folks Fishing, shares his journey as a Mexican American navigating the worlds of skateboarding and fly fishing. From the streets of San Jose to the waters of Baja, Mario is building more than a brand—he’s creating a movement rooted in culture, authenticity, and a sense of belonging. He reminds us that simply being yourself can be the most powerful form of inclusion.
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Al is a passionate fly angler whose unexpected journey into the sport has taken him from urban Indiana waters to international fishing destinations. More than just a fishing story, Al’s path reflects personal transformation, a deepening connection to nature, and a commitment to uplifting visibility for anglers of color through the Ubuntu Fly Anglers network.
For Pride Month 2025, iFishiBelong’s “Be What You Don’t See” campaign highlighted five incredible queer leaders in fishing and outdoor spaces. Anni Peterson, Dayle Woodward, Demiesha Dennis, J. Michelle Swope, and Shelly Vo shared their stories of visibility, advocacy, and community in a field where representation is still growing. Together, they’re helping redefine what belonging looks like in the outdoors.
Toronto-based angler, Shelly Vo, building inclusive, low-pressure spaces for queer and BIPOC fly-fishers through her community fly-tying club, Flies and Friends and Brown Girl Outdoor World.
Emma Brown shares her journey as a transracial adoptee, rancher, and fly fishing guide, reflecting on identity, inclusion, and building community in the outdoor world.
Fly shop owner and longtime advocate turning community work into action by creating inclusive, welcoming spaces in fly fishing.
Emma Brown joins On the Real to share how her rural Colorado roots led to a life of ranching, fly fishing, and forging space for women of color in the outdoors.
A queer, award-winning Black conservationist and community leader, founder of Brown Girl Outdoor World to create inclusive outdoor spaces where marginalized communities feel seen, safe, and empowered to belong.
Meet Dayle Woodward the Becca Sue Klein, All Kids Fish iFiB Program Chair, and Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, Orvis Store Fishing Manager.
In this episode of On the Reel, Joyce Shepherd shares her journey from working on a tobacco farm in North Carolina to becoming a passionate educator and advocate for inclusivity in the world of fly fishing.