Though some guides and athletes might prefer to keep their trade secrets a secret, Hilary Hutcheson is quick to share what she’s learned. “I encourage guides and experienced anglers to share their knowledge and light the way for new anglers to become resource-protecting stewards,” she says. “All anglers should feel welcome on the river. Opening the gate mitigates mistakes that might harm the resource.” She says that showing novices the proper conservation, ethics, and etiquette will ensure a better and longer fishing experience for everybody. “You can light the way for others and still maintain your intellectual property,” says Hilary. “Giving insider information on where to float or wade and what flies to use has never negatively impacted my success on the water.”

“Learning to fish shouldn’t be pushing a big red button and boom, you’re an angler,” says Hilary. “When I give presentations about fly fishing, I try to explain all the WHY, not just the HOW.”