I'll admit I am a little overwhelmed with all the considerations when it comes to fly fishing. My default pattern has been to wait for the warm season and then head straight to my favorite guide in Montana to take care of my needs, choose my flies, and put me on fish all the while rowing that boat up and down stream. But I've learned a lot and think I might just be able to go it alone around this area. Walking into Confluence was my first 'real life' shopping experience, and while I'd already set myself up with the big basics (rod, reel, etc.), I knew I'd better make some local friends for guidance and what was left on my Christmas list. My worries floated downstream when I walked through their doors. Brandon was welcoming and full of information. I didn't feel out of place with my rookie questions, and he set me up nicely. In the end I left with a pack, a net, and an amazing pair of waders that I actually paid more for than I wanted to, but I trusted Brandon's guidance that the pair I left with were better than the ones I was originally looking at. Even though they were more expensive, they were still 20% off and I'm convinced I'll enjoy them more and they will last a lot longer. Can't wait to head in again when I aim for a lake as spring breaks so the folks at Confluence can set me up with some killer flies. read more