Why doesn't Madison have a dedicated fly shop?
This is a question I asked myself for a long time. We are surrounded by stellar fishing, and the gateway to the Driftless and all points North. Trout, smallies, musky, carp...its all right here. Strong organizations like Badger Fly Fishers and Trout Unlimited. One of the best easement programs in the country right here in Dane county. Plus an active and involved Madison population, who loves the outdoors.
In the summer of 2014, I decided to do something about it. With a well written business plan in hand, a boatload of financial projections, and some meager 401k savings..I headed off to the local credit union to see what I could do. Research and writing paid off, I managed to convince them to approve a six-figure SBA loan. Holy s**t! Wisco Outfitters was born.
Now the real work started. Location, vendors, architects were deeply researched and procured. Opening orders put together. I worked on building a kickass logo and brand. Excitement was growing. There was a lot of enthusiastic response to actually having a real dedicated fly shop in the Madison area. My location was a new building, perfectly situated. Dreams of a life retail bliss (ha) were coming true.
Time passed, and with all new businesses..there were delays. The building being behind schedule was the biggest hurdle. Now it was January. If you know anything about flyfishing..you know its a seasonal sport, and a seasonal business. Heartbroken, early in 2015 I pulled the plug on the project. Delays, major life changes, and a much later than ideal open date determined it was not the right time.
At this point..are you as disappointed as I was? It was so close!
Fast forward to today..spring of 2016. The business plan is still there. The bank is just waiting for a new application. Some pretty cool new locations are available. My meager savings..well, those are far less solvent than before.
This is where you come in. Who out there wants to be part of a Madison fly shop? Partners, investors, donations, free labor...I'll consider it all. I have the energy, connections, time, and business plan to make it work...I just need help. Wisco Outfitters is a great brand, and could be an even better Madison fly fishing shop.
Who's in? Hit me up via email if you're interested in chatting, wiscooutfitters@gmail.com
I'll bring the beer! Cheers! #fishlocal
