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The 2025 International Sowbug Roundup is now in full swing at the Baxter County Fairgrounds in Mountain Home. The event, which opened Thursday, March 27, continues through Saturday, March 29, drawing fly fishing enthusiasts from across the country.
The annual gathering, hosted by the North Arkansas Fly Fishers (NAFF), features 150 expert fly tyers demonstrating their craft throughout the venue. Visitors can observe techniques and learn from masters in the field while browsing offerings from more than 20 vendors showcasing the latest in fly fishing gear and materials.
This year’s special guests include Pat Dorsey, a master guide with over 30 years of experience from Colorado, and Tim Flagler from New Jersey, whose fly tying instructional videos have garnered over 112,000 subscribers on YouTube. Additional featured tiers include Mike Morphew, Dutch Baughman, Davy Wotton, and Mike George.
Educational opportunities abound with free seminars and casting lessons for beginners. The event also offers special activities for younger participants, with free fly tying classes for children and a youth raffle where every child receives a prize.
Attendees can participate in extensive auctions and raffles throughout the event, with special prizes including a Scadden Dagger Lo Pro inflatable watercraft and a Helios Euro nymphing rig from Orvis.
The Clarkridge Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary is providing concessions all three days, offering breakfast options, lunch selections, and their popular homemade fried pies in eight different flavors.
General admission is $10 for all three days, with the fairgrounds open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Children under 12 accompanied by an adult and members of the North Arkansas Fly Fishers enjoy free admission.
Proceeds from the event support conservation efforts, education programs, and scholarships for students pursuing careers in fisheries and conservation, with the first $10,000 raised going toward scholarships.
