The local Trout Unlimited Chapter is bringing the International Fly Fishing Film Festival to the peninsula. The event is a fundraiser benefiting the Kenai Peninsula Trout Unlimited Chapter and their projects. Dave Atcheson, a former board member and volunteer with Trout Unlimited, said the event is a great way to gear up for the upcoming fishing season.
The festival will feature short films about locations all over the world, including Alaska.
“People like the short films and it gets them ready and excited for the fishing season,” Atcheson said.
Along with the film screening, the event will also hold a silent auction, packed with fishing trips, fishing gear, local artwork and more, Atcheson said.
The event will also have food and drinks, including a specially brewed beer from Kenai River Brewing Company. The Two-Timing Trout Pale Ale, the first original beer brewed by Kenai River’s Benjamin Weagraff, will be released at the event.
John Messick, the president of Trout Unlimited, said the film festival is part of an annual fundraiser the chapter does every year. Money raised at the event will go toward local projects, such as building culverts in local streams and offering education on fishing in local watersheds.
“Lately we’ve pushed education and outreach,” Messick said. “We’re trying to get more young people and families fishing.”
This is Messick’s second year on the Trout Unlimited board and his first year as president. He says he’s hoping to grow the chapter’s membership.
“I want people engaged with the watershed they live,” Messick said.
The doors open at 5:30 p.m., Saturday, April 27. Films start at 6:30 p.m. at the Kenai Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center in Kenai. Tickets are $12 online and $15 at the door.
