From Teaching to Television
Curtis started his career as a teacher, a profession he cherished but always felt there was more he was meant to do. After 15 years in the classroom, Curtis took a leap of faith and pitched the idea of a fly fishing show to his wife. With her encouragement, Curtis launched Fly Rod Chronicles, which has now been on air for 22 seasons.
He reminisces about the early days, from filming a pilot episode and sending it to the Sportsman Channel to receiving an overwhelmingly positive response. Curtis’s show quickly gained traction, moving to larger platforms like the Outdoor Channel and eventually Discovery Channel, bringing Fly Rod Chronicles into millions of households worldwide.
The Heart of the Show: Storytelling
What makes Fly Rod Chronicles unique is its emphasis on storytelling. Curtis chose to focus the show on the people he meets and the places he visits rather than on himself. Whether featuring a celebrity, a local mechanic, or a veteran, each episode highlights a compelling story. Curtis emphasizes, “A lot of times, I don’t even fish on my own show,” highlighting that the essence of Fly Rod Chronicles lies in sharing experiences rather than showcasing his own skills.
Navigating the Digital Landscape
With traditional television models evolving, Curtis is enthusiastic about the opportunities in the digital world. The show is now available on platforms like Amazon Prime, reaching a larger global audience. Curtis embraces the learning process of navigating the digital landscape, finding new ways to connect with viewers through YouTube and social media.
The Business Behind the Adventure
Running a successful TV show involves more than just producing content. Curtis recognizes the importance of the business side, from securing sponsors like Yeti and Hook to building strong relationships with the state of West Virginia. Despite the challenges, Curtis remains focused on his mission to showcase the beauty of West Virginia and share it with the world.
A Love for West Virginia
Throughout our conversation, Curtis’s deep love for West Virginia was evident. He speaks passionately about the state’s natural beauty, its incredible fishing spots, and the joy of returning home after traveling the world. For Curtis, highlighting West Virginia’s pristine rivers and vibrant communities is not just a job—it’s a calling.
As Fly Rod Chronicles enters its 22nd season, Curtis remains as enthusiastic as ever about the future. His story is a testament to the power of following your passion, taking risks, and staying true to your roots. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or simply enjoy a good story, Fly Rod Chronicles offers a captivating glimpse into the world of fly fishing through the lens of a proud West Virginian.
Positively West Virginia is powered by Breezeline High-Speed Fiber Internet and sponsored by Highmark West Virginia, Freedom Kia of Morgantown, InnerAction Media, and StoryMaker. These partnerships allow us to continue sharing the positive business stories of West Virginians like Curtis Fleming. For more on Curtis and Fly Rod Chronicles, visit Fly Rod Chronicles.
