Club History

In the winter of 1995, Paul Dygert and Dr. Paul Raiman proposed the formation of an organization for fly fishermen in the Fort Wayne area. Paul Dygert, who had recently moved to Fort Wayne from South Bend, had previously been associated with the Saint Joseph River Valley Fly Fishers and held several positions with that club. That club’s president and founder, Joe Mitchell, acted as an advisor in the early planning and conceptualization of the club.

 After an announcement of intent was published in the Fort Wayne Newspapers, an informational meeting was held. All participants were very enthused to move forward with the formation of the club. Officers and directors were elected including Paul Dygert, President; Dr. Paul Raiman, Vice President; Hal Usher, Treasurer; and John Reed, Secretary. As of the end of the first year, the club roster included 39 members. Meetings were held at Hilger’s Restaurant.

 The club immediately decided to become affiliated with the Federation of Fly Fishers, Great Lakes Council and remains so yet today.

 Since it’s inception, the TRFF club has had only three presidents, the first being Paul Dygert: the second, Jerry Drake, who served in that capacity for 8 years; and our present leader, Bob Lowden, who was elected to that position in 2005.

Today, the club remains dedicated to its founding principals including promotion of fly fishing, education of our members and the public on the techniques of the sport, participation in efforts to preserve and protect our natural resources and enjoyment of the fellowship of other fly fishermen. Our current roster includes over 80 dues paying members.