Ruddick's Fly Shop

The oldest fly shop in Vancouver, British Columbia

I discovered Ruddick's by accident, but it was one of those enjoyable accidents. I had planned to spend an extra few days in Vancouver, British Columbia, site seeing and hopefully some flyfishing after a three day conference.

Two days before I was to leave for home, and still no definite plans to get out on a river as I couldn't locate any available guides, I was traipsing around Granville Island when I stumbled across Ruddick's Fly Shop. A classy overhead sign grabbed my attention (almost everything related to fly fishing grabs my attention) and announced that there was indeed more than just marine shops, public markets, and art galleries on Granville Island!

I always feel a bit tentative walking into a fly shop for the first time. So often, I get the feeling that I am being looked up and down by the staff suspiciously as if to ask "Are you a true fly angler?" That snobby attitude still prevails in some places, unfortunately.

Malcolm and Kathy Ruddick. Photo copyright © 2001 Ian Scott

This attitude definitely does not exist at Ruddick's. When I walked in the store, I was greeted with a big smile from Kathy Ruddick and a warm "Hi There! If there is anything I can help you with, just shout." I immediately relaxed and felt at home. After I had left the shop, I discovered that Kathy Ruddick had competed on the Canadian National Flyfishing Team during the 2000 World Flyfishing Championships.

After an enjoyable browse through the small but cozy shop, I introduced myself to Kathy and explained my predicament to her - the fact that I had traveled over 2,700 miles and was very eager to do some flyfishing. Kathy listened sympathetically as I explained I had no tackle so I really needed the services of a guide who could provide at least a rod and reel.

Without a moment's hesitation, Kathy was making phone calls on my behalf. In a couple of minutes, she had the name and number of a guide who might be able to assist me on such short notice. Her advice was perfect! I successfully arranged a guided trip with a great guy from Upstream Adventures, Todd Scharf.

Ruddick's carries a just about everything you will need if you are heading to the Vancouver area and want to get in some flyfishing while you are there. They have a great selection of flies available and their local knowledge is excellent. Not only that, the atmosphere of the store is very friendly and warm and the Ruddick's didn't seem to mind at all that I was simply browsing and interested in 'talking fishing', miles from home. No wonder they are they oldest fly shop in Vancouver, operating since 1972.

Ruddicks's is located at 1654 Duranleau Street, Granville Island, Vancouver, British Columbia. You might want to know that during the winter, they are closed on Monday.

Visit the Ruddick's Fly Shop website.