Community Member Spotlight

Todd Chester

About Todd Chester

This month, we’re excited to highlight Todd Chester, a passionate angler whose love for fly fishing has made him a valued member of our community. Todd’s journey with the sport began when he was just a young kid, but it wasn’t until about 10 years ago that he truly started getting serious about it. Since then, he’s become not only an avid fisherman but also an inspiring mentor to fellow anglers, always ready to share his knowledge and experiences.

One of Todd’s most memorable fishing stories takes us to Belize, where he celebrated his 50th birthday. Todd and his wife traveled to Turneffe Island Resort for a three-day fishing adventure, and little did he know that the trip would become one of the most unforgettable moments of his angling career. The first morning on the flats, with the water sparkling beneath the sun, Todd made his first cast—and to his delight, it was met with an immediate bite. A permit, a coveted catch, was on the end of his line, and Todd couldn’t believe his luck. “I didn’t see another permit the entire trip, but that first cast will always stand out,” Todd recalls with a smile. The adventure didn’t stop there. By the end of the day, Todd had completed a Grand Slam—a feat every angler dreams of—and it made the trip even more special to share with his wife. It’s a memory that will always be dear to him.

For Todd, fly fishing is about more than just the fish. It’s about the serenity and peace that come with being on the water, whether that’s on the flats or floating down a river in a drift boat. “Fly fishing is the only time I feel completely relaxed. I can focus entirely on enjoying the moment,” Todd says. It’s this sense of tranquility that keeps him coming back time and time again, reminding him why he fell in love with the sport in the first place.

But Todd’s contribution to the community goes beyond his own fishing experiences. He’s passionate about introducing others to fly fishing, believing that you can never have too many fly fishing friends. Whether it’s helping newcomers with casting techniques or guiding someone through their first fishing trip, Todd finds great joy in sharing his love for the sport. “Seeing someone catch their first fish on the fly—it’s an unforgettable moment,” he shares. Todd’s commitment to helping others develop their skills has made him an invaluable mentor in the community, and many anglers have benefited from his kindness and expertise.

Todd is also a big fan of the AZ Fly Shop, which he believes is a cornerstone of the local fly fishing community. “We’re lucky to have such a high-quality shop right here in our area,” he says. “AZ Fly Shop offers everything you need, from gear to advice, and the team genuinely cares about helping you become a better angler.” One of the things Todd appreciates most about AZ Fly Shop is the welcoming atmosphere. “The best part about AZ Fly Shop is the team. It’s a place where you never feel intimidated, and everyone is eager to help,” he adds. For Todd, the shop is more than just a place to buy gear—it’s a community hub where anglers of all levels can connect and learn.

When asked for advice to fellow anglers, Todd’s words are simple but profound: “Like golf, you do need to practice to get better. But don’t take yourself too seriously—have fun and enjoy the art of it.” His philosophy is a reminder that while skill development is important, the joy of fishing is just as crucial.

We at AZ Fly Shop want to express our gratitude to Todd for being such an inspiring and integral part of our community. His enthusiasm, generosity, and genuine love for fly fishing have made him a true ambassador for the sport. We’re lucky to count him among our friends, and we look forward to many more years of fishing, learning, and enjoying the great outdoors together.