Rivers Of A Lost Coast is a 2009 documentary film directed by Justin Coupe and Palmer Taylor. The movie tells the fascinating story of the golden age of fly fishing on California's North Coast in the mid-twentieth century. The film features a captivating narration by actor Tom Skerritt and showcases stunning archival footage, beautiful photography, and insightful interviews with experts in the field.
The documentary transports viewers to a time when steelhead and salmon fishing was at its peak in the rivers of the North Coast. It looks at how a group of passionate anglers and fly tyers, known as the "Golden Gate Angling and Casting Club," pioneered new fishing techniques and flies that revolutionized the sport. The movie also highlights the role that these anglers played in protecting the rivers and fish populations they loved, as they battled against the forces of urbanization and the damming of the rivers.
The film takes us on a journey along the Eel, Smith, Trinity, and Klamath rivers, and we see how these rivers were transformed by human intervention. We witness how the logging industry and the construction of dams devastated fish populations, changing the landscape from one abundant with fish to one almost devoid of them. However, through interviews with anglers and experts, we learn that there is still hope for these rivers.
The movie also provides a history lesson on the impact that World War II had on fishing on the North Coast. At that time, fishing was considered a luxury, and most anglers were wealthy men who had the resources to pursue the sport. However, during the war years, many of these men were drafted to fight, and their absence created new opportunities for working-class men to take up fishing. The increase in diversity among anglers led to new perspectives on the sport and allowed fly fishing to spread and become more popular.
Rivers Of A Lost Coast is a visually stunning film that captures the beauty of California's North Coast. The movie has breathtaking footage of the rivers and surrounding landscape, which is sure to inspire anyone who loves nature. The film also features interviews with some of the most revered fly anglers of the time, such as Dec Hogan, Steve Rajeff, and Bill Schaadt. These experts provide deep insights into the history and evolution of fly fishing and what made it such a crucial part of their lives.
The documentary delves deeper into the techniques used by these expert anglers, and it is fascinating to watch them demonstrate their fly casting skills. Through these demonstrations, viewers can see the intricacy and beauty of the sport and understand why it became such a significant part of the North Coast culture.
Overall, Rivers Of A Lost Coast is an engaging and informative documentary that tells the history of fly fishing on the North Coast of California. The film showcases beautiful scenery, provides an education on the impact of damming and logging on the rivers, and delves into the intricacies of fly fishing. It is a must-see for anyone interested in fishing, nature, or California history.
