Mike Watts

Mike Watts is a passionate fly fisherman and freelance writer. He’s a storyteller who loves writing and sharing the many outdoor experiences he's witnessed on the water and in the woods. Through his writing, you will meet his fishing family and learn why he feels committed to promoting the sport.

Like all good fishermen who recount their stories, everything he writes is nonfiction. Some of his stories may even make you laugh. They aren’t all fly fishing stories either. There are stories of good friends, fishing trips, a love for the outdoors, hunting dogs, and mischievous children. They also tell the importance of taking kids fishing. Most of the stories are true, though they may have a hint of embellishment.

Mike’s blogs, many outdoor magazine articles, and books have earned numerous First Place honors in the Excellence in Craft Awards from his peers at the South Carolina Outdoor Writers Press Association. Two of his books, “Riverbank Memories” and “Pond Fishing with Papa,” received Best Outdoor Book awards.

For fifty years, Mike has fly fished across the country, yet he still calls the rivers and creeks of Southern Appalachia his “Home Waters.”

As the fly-fishing instructor at Clemson University for over 20 years, he introduced more than 1,200 students to the sport. A letter recognizing him as an individual who has made a positive impact on students at Clemson University reminded him: “The work that you do has truly made a difference in the lives of students.”

Mike’s unwavering dedication to fly fishing is evident in his numerous accomplishments and awards, a testament to his commitment since he began in 1976. His passion for the outdoors and conservation earned him the prestigious Silver Trout Award twice from the Mountain Bridge Chapter of Trout Unlimited, where he served in various capacities over the years, demonstrating his significant role in the fly-fishing community.

He continues to promote his beloved pastime, has played a key role in establishing a free, public fly-fishing program, and volunteers as an instructor through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources' Aquatic Education Department.

When asked about his greatest outdoor memory, he replied, Watching my grandson strain to fight his first trout ever and playing it on a fly rod at age four.”

The reader will enjoy all of Mike's adventures, including his latest, "Tales of Rivers and Woods," "Riverbank Memories," "The Christmas Fly," and his children's book, "Pond Fishing with Papa."