Walter Moody
Walter is an avid fly angler living in Columbia SC. He's lived all over the country and moved back to SC a little over ten years ago. He's on his local water fishing an average of 1-2 days a week, more when he can swing it. While not on the water, He works as an operations and data analyst for a major manufacturing company.
Why do you love fly fishing?
My love of fly fishing stems first from my adoration of the natural environment and desire to keep it clean and protected. As they say, you don’t go fly fishing in ugly places. I got my start in fly fishing about ten years ago after a visit to Western NC and was instantly hooked! I wanted to fish anything that held water, regardless of the size of the fish (and still do today).
Where is your favorite place to fish and why?
My favorite place to fish is the Saluda River in Columbia as it holds multiple species and offers year-round fishing opportunities. Doesn’t hurt that I can be on the water in fifteen minutes from my house or office. I also enjoy fishing the small creeks in the mountains and the inshore environment in the lowcountry.
What is your dream destination to fish?
On my bucket list for fishing destinations are Iceland and Patagonia.
Why is the Atollas brand special to you?
I was first introduced to the Atollas brand a couple years ago when the 2GO box was being tested in the Orvis Columbia store where I was working. I had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know Shea (Atollas co-founder). I was impressed by the bi-directional foam slits in the box to accommodate large flies on both sides of the box, but mostly by the Fly Caddy. I don’t think anyone has ever done something quite like this.
What Atollas product(s) are in your everyday carry?
I personally have multiple of each of the offerings (Micro, 1GO, 2GO, Fly Caddy, and Fly Caddy XL) and each has its own specific application. I use the Micro Box and 1GO Box when trout fishing, and 2GO Box primarily for saltwater and bass fishing, but the one item that gets more use than anything else is the Fly Caddy and Fly Caddy XL. I’ve got these things everywhere – Gear boxes, sling packs, waders, fly tying desk, coolers, two in my truck (one on the dash and one in the cargo area) and obviously on the outside of the fly boxes. I’ll also attach one to my hat when in the field for the quickest access.
