I realized that as 2025 drew to a close that I have not written an end-of-year report for the last two years! A few notable items from Unwrapped Outdoors to close out the year in review is overdue. 

This year was superb for our anglers. We had more Master Angler fish on the boat this year than any other. While the core angling opportunities for Unwrapped have always centered on bluegills, sunfish, and crappie, 2025 had anglers asking for more opportunity as never before. There was an increase in pike and bass guided trips as well as a dramatic increase in yellow perch trips. There was no lack of success on these trips. Never tried perch flies? I can show you how to rig them in my own unique style which is effective and very enjoyable.

Another area with increased demand was fly fishing. There were more fly fishing clients this year than all other years combined. There were a total of 6 brand new fly anglers this year, not to mention several others shaking off the rust. I continue to deeply enjoy these trips. If this is something you are wanting to try, go for it! I have all the equipment you would ever want to try and can help you get started with all the basic skills you will need. Maybe even more!

Winter is always time for reflection, which you can read about in my December 2025 Pinched Barb Column. Winter is also time for tying flies. In 2025 I have developed some very successful fly patterns which have become main weapons in my fly box arsenal. You will see these in use in 2026 as well as many others that will be thoroughly tested in the Spring and Early Summer.