Land of Little Rivers

Land of Little Rivers, released in 2019, is a captivating documentary that delves deep into the world of trout fishing in the Catskill Mountains, turning the spotlight on the vibrant rivers that are home to these elusive fish. Directed by Aaron Weisblatt, the film includes interviews with experienced anglers and guides like Zack Anderson, Barry Beck, and Cathy Beck who offer fascinating insights and perspectives about the serene, yet thrilling world of fly fishing.

The documentary takes its name from the storied Catskill Rivers which are often referred to as the “Land of Little Rivers.” With their braided waters cascading down the mountains, they are considered mecca for those interested in the art and sport of fly fishing. These rivers are known for being the birthplace of American fly fishing, and they continue to draw passionate fly fishermen from around the world.

Zack Anderson lends his expertise as a skilled angler to add depth to the narrative, while Barry and Cathy Beck, two of the most recognized names in the world of fly fishing, bring their wealth of knowledge and experience to the film. All of them help to paint a rich and realistic picture of the world of fly fishing, their insights expanding the viewer’s understanding of not just the sport itself, but also its spiritual and therapeutic aspects.

While the movie uses trout fishing as its central theme, it also skillfully showcases how fly fishing is uniquely intertwined with the history and legacy of the region and how it impacts the local community. It introduces viewers to the remarkable culture that has evolved around the sport, presenting it not just as a pastime but a tradition with its own folklore, craftmanship in the form of handmade flies and rods, and indeed, its own heroes.

Land of Little Rivers further explores the stunning natural beauty of the region – the pristine waterways, the rich, verdant forests, and the breathtaking Catskill Mountains themselves. Brilliant cinematography takes the viewer on a visual journey down rushing rapids, through calm lakes, and into the tranquil stillness of a fisherman's dawn. This homage to nature is wonderfully balanced with the human element of the story, making the film a delightful exploration of a sport as well as a landscape and the people bound by it.

Throughout the duration of Land of Little Rivers, the audience is treated to a vivid tapestry of stories, shared by the guides, the craftsmen who create the flies and rods, and the enthusiasts who return year after year to these iconic rivers. These narratives, filled with passion, legend, and a deep respect for nature, serve to underscore the relationship between the fishermen, their craft, and the environment.

This is not just a documentary for fly fishing enthusiasts, it has a broader appeal. It delves into themes much bigger than the sport itself – themes like conservation, the transcendental relationship that humans share with nature, the passing down of legacy and knowledge through generations, and the sheer joy derived from pursuing one’s passion. By engaging in these themes, the film manages to capture a sense of harmony – between man and nature, between tradition and progress, between the peace of solitude and the bonds of community.

Land of Little Rivers, at its heart, is a celebration – of the sport of fly fishing, of the beauty of nature, and of the passionate individuals who dedicate themselves to this pursuit. It is a poetic symphony of the quiet and not-so-quiet moments that make up the culture of fly fishing in the Catskill Mountains.

The makers of Land of Little Rivers managed to dive beneath the surface of this seemingly niche world and emerge with an evocative and engaging piece of cinematic storytelling. The film hooks, not with theatrical drama or sensationalism, but with the palpable passion its subjects have for the fly fishing heritage of the Catskill Mountains. A wonderful testament to a unique culture, Land of Little Rivers invites viewers to step into a world at once familiar in its universal appeal, and yet tantalizingly elusive, much like the prized trout that glide beneath the river's surface. This film is a jewel, appreciated not just by those who understand the language of the river, but anyone who appreciates the allure of nature and the tales that emerge from its heart.