News

Tributes have been paid to one of the best-known faces in the fly fishing industry – Jim Murphy – after he passed away earlier this month.

As well as being the founder of tackle brands Redington and Douglas and clothing brand Albright, he was perhaps best associated with Hardy, having had two long stints at the trade giant.

His 37 years in the tackle trade spanned the aforementioned companies, a spell as vice-president of R L Winston fly rods and, latterly he was the director of fly fishing at Hardy, overseeing the group’s Hardy, Greys, Fenwick and Pflueger brands.

It was a company he had returned to in 2019 having been president of Hardy North America and in charge during its transition into the Pure Fishing group back in 2013.

Hardy led the tributes, saying Jim led with calm strength and set a high bar for how to represent a legacy brand. He protected the Hardy name and carried its history with dignity and respect. He taught fly fishing to anglers around the world and was a pillar of the fly-fishing community and a leader and mentor to many.

Jim believed in the power of craft and detail. He valued gear that felt right in the hand and on the water. He made time for conversations in fly shops, in waders, and on stages. He cared about the sport and the people who shaped it.

Jon Schlosser, Chief Product and Brand Officer at Pure Fishing, said: “Jim carried the Hardy legacy with pride and care. He understood what made the brand special and made sure others understood it too. He knew the sport, the craft and the community at a deep level.

“We will miss his voice, his steady presence, and his friendship. Our thoughts are with his family and with the many people in fly fishing who will feel this loss.”

Jim also loved writing poetry. His work often reflected time outside and his respect for quiet places.

The statement continued: “Hardy Fly Fishing extends condolences to Jim’s family, friends, and the global fly-fishing community. We remain grateful for his leadership and for his many years of service to this sport.”

Jim lived in Stuart, Florida, was married to Tess and had four sons.

A celebration of life will be held at 11am on February 28th at the Flagler in downtown Stuart, Florida.