Chris Gallagher

Competition Angler

Chris started fly fishing in the early 1990s in the Shenandoah range of Virginia and Catskill Mountains of New York. He spent several years in the military where he was able to fish all over the world, including Egypt and Iraq, before pursuing a civilian career in environmental protection. For 25 years, he has lived in the Catskill area, taking full advantage of this world-class fishery and fishing up to 200 days a year while instructing others and assisting with beginner programs through Trout Town Flies in Roscoe, NY. After fishing 'dry fly only' for his first 20 years, Chris has spent the last decade exploring subsurface presentations and began competing in New York four years ago under the mentorship of longtime FFTUSA anglers Ken Crane and Loren Williams. His fishing adventures have taken him throughout the East Coast, Great Lake tributaries, the Pacific Northwest, and Montana, while also developing a bonefish obsession that has influenced family vacations.

Discipline: Fly Fishing

Specialty: Nymphing

Competitive Fly Fishing Ambassador: Chris is a former member of Fly Fishing Team USA and organizes events, working to help other anglers understand the positive influence of competitive fly fishing and attract new participants to the sport. Catskill Region Expert: With 25+ years of experience in the renowned Catskill fishery, Chris fishes and instructs up to 200 days annually, specializing in both dry fly techniques and subsurface presentations. Military Veteran & Global Angler: Chris served in the military, which allowed him to fish worldwide including Egypt and Iraq, before transitioning to a career in environmental protection.