John and Tracy Yury started out selling both standard fishing as well as fly-fishing gear at their Dauphin store in 1995. Within a year, they had come to the decision they wanted to focus solely on fly-fishing and leave the traditional rod and reel sales to other retailers.

They also decided that in addition to providing the gear for the notoriously challenging sport, they would offer fly-fishing instruction and tours in the Parkland region as well.

To purchase the necessary equipment to make their dream a reality, the Yurys approached Community Futures Parkland for assistance.

After considering their business history and their opportunity to move full-scale into a different market, Community Futures also considered how the business would impact on the region.

Parkland’s staff and board understood the importance of tourism to the region and the need to support sound business ideas that help develop the area’s potential.

The Yury’s business is unique to the area and brings people from across Canada and the U.S. to participate in fly-fishing. The couple also sells fly-fishing products to people from around the world. This is largely done through their 800-page web site that lists all of their guiding and out-fitting services as well as the fly-fishing products they have for sale. Their efforts have translated into the creation of six jobs and an influx of many tourists to the Parkland region.

Through their vision and willingness to explore new opportunities, the Yurys have created a service in the region that many people would not have imagined. You can see the products and services they offer by visiting them on-line at www.northernangler.mb.ca.