The 4th annual Gulf Coast Classic fly fishing festival returns to Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores, Alabama, on May 1-2, 2026. Hosted by the Gulf Coast Council (GCC) of Fly Fishers International (FFI), this volunteer-organized event features seminars, fly tying demonstrations, casting workshops, conservation forums, a film festival, a “Mixed Bag” fishing contest, and more.
The Classic has seen a steady increase in attendance each year, especially among younger anglers. The many social activities and the casual ambience lends itself to greater engagement among attendees than most fly fishing events. The setting on the white sand beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, numerous family activities, and many good seafood restaurants make the Gulf Shores location an attraction not to be missed!
With the growing popularity of this event, only a few sponsor and exhibitor slots remain for the 2026 Classic. The FFI-GCC would like to give any business with an interest a chance to get one of these slots now, and take advantage of the 25 percent discount that ends November 30th. All sponsorships (except Sunfish) receive free exhibition space.
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, donations of cash or items for the raffles and auctions are tax deductible. Proceeds from the Classic benefit the FFI Gulf Coast Council’s education and conservation initiatives.
For application forms, as well as all information about the Classic, please go to the event website at: www.ffigulfcoastclassic.com.
About FFI-GCC
Fly Fishers International is the world’s largest fly fishing organization, dedicated to education, conservation, and community.  For more info, go to www.flyfishersinternational.org. The Gulf Coast Council consists of FFI members and clubs in Louisiana, Mississippi, south Alabama, and northwest Florida. For more info, go to www.ffigcc.org
