The American Museum of Fly Fishing is excited to host the

2026 Bamboo Derby on the Battenkill!

As part of the Arlington Common’s Battenkill Fly Fishing Festival, this special addition to the lineup is designed as a fun day on the water for bamboo veterans and first timers alike. Think of it as a day spent fishing with friends—old and new—while celebrating the traditions, craftsmanship, and heritage preserved by the American Museum of Fly Fishing.

Whether you’re a seasoned cane devotee or simply curious to cast bamboo for the first time, we’d love to have you join us.

Limited to 20 anglers! Advance registration required
Open to all: guides, amateurs, and everyone in between
8:00 AM check-in and group photo (location TBD)
Score card and instructions will be provided
Participants will honor AMFF’s heritage by fishing bamboo rods exclusively
$125 entry fee
Please bring your own bamboo rod. Don’t have one yet? This is the perfect excuse—see recommended dealers below.
Grand Prize: a custom engraved Abel reel
All participants will receive a commemorative gift
Fishing on the Battenkill (NY and/or VT); a valid fishing license is required
If you’re looking for a guide for the day, please contact amff@amff.org for suggestions.

Bamboo Dealers

Bob Selb – Classic Fly Fisherman
Carmine Lisella – Jordan-Mills Rod Co.
Dana Gray – Carlson Rod Company
Fred Kretchman – Kretchman Fly Rods
Marc Aroner – Spinoza Rods
Jim Becker – JH Becker Rodworks

2026 Battenkill Bamboo Derby