EP 1: She Casts: The Fly Fishing Journey of Nicole Tracey Lewis

In this inaugural episode, Nicole Tracey Lewis, a Black woman and proud Montreal native, shares her coming-of-age journey as a passionate fly angler and fly tier. Now based in Ottawa, Nicole has spent over a decade immersed in the world of fly fishing. Whether she’s fishing through the ice or swinging flies for steelhead with her two-handed rod, her love for the water runs deep.

Nicole recounts the unforgettable moment of landing her very first steelhead on the swing, a milestone that marked a turning point in her angling journey. She also reflects on the reality that, in more than ten years of fly fishing, she has never shared the water with another Black angler.

Her story underscores the importance of representation and highlights the vital role of the Ubuntu Fly Anglers Network in creating space and visibility for Black and Brown anglers in a sport and industry that remains overwhelmingly white.

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On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life—from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard.

Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs like All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing world. iFishiBelong believes true integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love for fishing, ensuring that every person has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead.