Hilary Hutcheson is one of the most respected figures in the fly fishing industry—a seasoned guide, conservationist, and advocate for environmental awareness. Growing up in Montana at the gateway to Glacier National Park, Hilary developed a deep-rooted connection to the rivers and landscapes that surrounded her. Over the years, she has become a leading voice in fly fishing and conservation, using her platform to inspire anglers to take an active role in protecting the waters they love. In this interview, Hilary shares her journey into fly fishing, her work in conservation, and the responsibilities that come with being both an angler and an advocate.
How did you get into fly fishing, and why?
I grew up at the west entrance to Glacier National Park, where the Flathead River—a wild and scenic river system—flows through protected land. From a young age, I was passionate about reading water and exploring our local waterways. My parents didn’t fly fish, so I had no one to teach me, but a classmate in middle school got a fly rod and showed me how to use it. It was so much fun! In high school, I began guiding whitewater rafting trips, and when “A River Runs Through It” came out, fly fishing surged in popularity. My boss started putting me on fishing trips, and guiding fly fishing happened naturally. I’ve stepped away from it at times for different reasons, but I always find my way back. It’s been nine years since my last break, and I don’t see myself stopping until my body gives out.
What makes fly fishing so rewarding for you?
The most rewarding aspect is watching guests develop a deeper connection with the natural world. They start by having an incredible time on the water—catching fish, running rapids, and seeing wildlife. That experience often leads to a newfound appreciation for the wild places that provide these moments. Seeing that transformation is fulfilling because conservation isn’t just about lecturing people—it’s about sharing the experience. When people see firsthand how valuable these places are, they become invested in protecting them.
How did you become an industry insider?
Anyone who cares about their fishery can contribute to the industry from within. I became involved by volunteering and staying engaged. I serve on the board of the American Fly Fishing Trade Association (AFFTA) and its Fisheries Fund, as well as my state’s Fishing Outfitters Association of Montana. I also work with organizations like Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, Protect Our Winters, and the Northern Rockies River Council, where we address specific river-related issues. It’s challenging but incredibly rewarding work.
What’s it like to be a mother and a fly fisher at the same time?
All three of my kids work with me at our guiding company, which is my greatest joy. Two are guides, and one works in the fly shop. It’s an incredible experience to see them share our remarkable rivers with people from around the world. At the same time, I can’t help but feel protective—I don’t want them to get hurt, make mistakes, or feel discouraged. But ultimately, I know they’re learning and growing, just like I did.
How did you get involved in conservation work?
I was raised in a conservation-focused household. Both of my parents worked for the National Park Service, and they taught me and my siblings to tread lightly on the planet. We were taught that nature is both resilient and fragile, and our actions have consequences. Guiding reinforced these values—I saw guests develop their own appreciation for the environment, which fueled my passion for conservation even more.
What are the most concerning environmental issues you’ve seen while traveling as a fly fisher?
Every fishery faces human-induced challenges. In Florida, redfish captains struggle with seagrass loss. In the Pacific Northwest, steelhead and salmon numbers are at record lows. Louisiana guides contend with frequent hurricanes, and overfishing of menhaden in the Northeast affects striped bass populations. But the positive side is that everywhere I go, I meet passionate people working to protect these fisheries. The movement is growing, and more anglers are recognizing the urgency of conservation efforts.
Can you tell us about some of your current projects?
During the summer, my focus is on guiding, but in the winter, I work on writing assignments for Fly Fisherman Magazine and conservation initiatives with brands like YETI, Costa, Orvis, Patagonia, and Scientific Anglers. I also collaborate with non-profits like Protect Our Winters, American Rivers, and AFFTA Fisheries Fund. Currently, I’m working on a fishing-related film that ties into my Japanese American heritage. Once in-person retail events return, I hope to take my film, “Drop,” on tour at Patagonia, YETI, and Orvis stores.
What was the inspiration behind “Drop”?
“Drop” follows a drop of water from the Continental Divide to the Pacific Ocean, highlighting climate solutions along the way. We wanted to show how communities—both urban and rural—rely on water and how environmental changes affect their lives. We met incredible people who are taking action to protect these vital resources.
Do you have any environmental success stories to share?
One of the most encouraging signs is the increasing engagement of fly anglers in conservation. When “Drop” premiered, both screenings sold out, and the audience stayed for a panel discussion with climate scientist Dan Fagre, Ph.D. People asked thoughtful questions and seemed motivated to take action—especially by reaching out to their elected leaders. More anglers are prioritizing conservation and seeing it as just as important as choosing the right fly or making the perfect cast.
What advice do you have for European fly fishers who want to get involved in conservation?
The most important thing is to recognize that we are all connected. Environmental policies in Europe affect us in the U.S. and vice versa. Fly fishers should pay close attention to environmental legislation, both locally and globally. Get involved in the legislative process—this doesn’t mean running for office, but rather supporting policies that protect the waters and fish you love. Many U.S. conservation organizations have European counterparts or opportunities to start new initiatives. If you’re looking for a starting point, your local fly shop might be a great resource. If conservation isn’t a focus there, it’s an opportunity to help bring that culture into the community.
Hilary Hutcheson embodies the spirit of fly fishing – not just as an angler, but as an advocate, mentor, and protector of wild places. Her journey from a teenage raft guide to a leading voice in the industry highlights the importance of passion, perseverance, and responsibility. As she continues to inspire through her work on the water and in conservation, her message is clear: fly fishing is about more than just catching fish – it’s about protecting the places that make those experiences possible.
Follow Hilary on Instagram: www.instagram.com/outsidehilary/
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