Red's Fly Shop

Friendly and Helpful Customer Service! (509) 933-2300

We are open 7 days a week - 9 am - 5 pm - PST
info@redsflyshop.com

Dream, Plan, Fish! 

This is how we like to live life at Red's Fly Shop.  From the first time somebody picks up a fly rod and learns to cast we want to serve anglers every step of the way with the absolute best possible customer service.  We believe in teaching, mentoring, and serving the customer of all skill and income levels.  Our philosophy is simple, customers like you allow us to have the greatest jobs on earth!  We never forget this and appreciate every order that comes in.  Every fly, leader, tippet, or rod is going to help create special memories for some lucky angler out there.

We are forever grateful for customers like you that loyally shop with us!

The History of Red’s Fly Shop and Canyon River Ranch Lodge



The history of Red’s begins as early as 1932 when it was known as "The Lattice Inn". Although reports are somewhat unsubstantiated, it is whispered that the Lattice Inn was not for the feint of heart, bearing resemblance to "Lolo" in Norman McLean’s A River Runs Through It.

Glenn Larsen purchased the property in the 1960’s and began operating it as a campground and mobile park, with a small store and drive-in restaurant. Riverview Campground has remained, unchanged for the most part, for over 30 years now. Glenn’s Drive Inn lasted about 10 years.

Sharon Larsen (a.k.a. Marlene) continued to run Riverview Campground after Glenn’s passing. She often enlisted the help Loman Blankenship (a.k.a. Red), who was quite handy with maintenance, repairs, and improving the property and business. Although the store had always stocked a few fishing supplies, it was during this time that the primary focus shifted to service the increasing numbers of fly anglers on the Yakima River. This coincided with the Yakima River becoming Washington State’s only catch-and-release Blue Ribbon trout fishery.

Red and Marlene were married and continued to improve upon the business and grounds. Many of you came to know and appreciate these two unique individuals. If you camped at Red’s, it was because Marlene let you! And if you got too loud at Red’s, it was Marlene who let you know. There was always something special about the shuttle ride with Red in the old red Ford pick-up. You could always find a boat to rent, or just shoot the breeze.

With the decision to retire, Red and Marlene passed the torch to Steve Joyce, Tony Robins, and Richard Leider in 2002. Who knows if it were divine intervention? It sure seems that way. Red and Marlene were able to happily retire and currently reside in the Ellensburg area. They continue to help out at Red’s.

Steve is Tony’s nephew, and both were born and raised in Montana. Rick Leider is a family friend and fishing partner. Steve and his wife Natalie of Choteau, Montana, reside on the property. The name "Red’s" will continue, in tribute to the founders, Red and Marlene, and also in honor and remembrance of Tony’s father and Steve’s grandfather, Red Robins.

At Red's, our business philosophies are simple. We believe in taking care of the fish and the river. We will always take an active role and set an example for others in protecting these resources. We also believe in taking absolute care of the customer. It’s not enough for us to provide the best equipment available. We are also committed to providing the best service and information. When a customer visits Red’s Fly Shop, we make sure they have every piece of information they need and feel comfortable about getting it. The employees at Red’s are honest, hard working individuals who are passionate about the business. We know this canyon is a very special place and that we are fortunate to be here. We invite you to come share this unique experience with us.

info@redsflyshop.com

Tel (509) 933-2300

Driving Directions:
.PDF  .DOC


Red's Flyshop
P.O. Box 186
Ellensburg, WA 98926