Matt Hartman

 

Although fly fishing didn’t originally stick when Matt’s grandfather tried to introduce him, it became an obsession when he came back to it after college. Since then, it has taken him to some of the most amazing places he’s ever been. He loves the problem-solving aspect of this sport and the feeling of connecting with something wild in their natural environment.

As the manager of The Northern Angler in Traverse City, MI, Matt has worked hard to make fly fishing accessible to everyone. He loves sharing his excitement and passion for the outdoors through Instagram, YouTube and in person working with customers. Matt believes educating anglers is the best way to generate the clean water advocates we need for the future health of our fisheries.

HOME WATER

Matt fishes the Boardman and Manistee rivers every chance he gets. Additionally, he enjoys exploring all the nearby still-water opportunities for smallmouth, largemouth, pike, and more.

Favorite Fly Lines

1. For trout, I love the versatility of the Infinity Taper. This line is like a multi-tool; it just does everything you want it to.

2. When streamer season rolls around, the Trout Express is a perfect fit for almost every trout situation in the Midwest. You can hit that sixty-foot cast or roll your fly into a tight spot with ease.

3. When it comes time to explore local lakes, I rely on the Sonar Titan 3D series. These lines are extremely easy to cast and allow me to fine tune my depth and sink rate.

 

Bucket List Fishing Spot

I just returned from my first saltwater trip to Cuba and I can’t wait to get back! Ripping across the water in the warmth of the morning sun and seeing a fish tear into your backing on their way to open water is a special experience.

Two Truths & One Lie

1. 1. I lived in an old school bus for a year
   2. I’m Ambidextrous
   3. I’ve been on a sinking boat in Lake Michigan