5 Questions with Jay Waide of Roanoke Angler, the Newest Fly Shop in the Roanoke Region

Picture this: you step into a cool stream, cast your reel into the glassy water, and let nature’s hums and chirps serenade you for a few hours. Sounds pretty amazing, right? This time of year typically has us talking about snow sports, BUT we have Roanoke Angler, a new fly fishing business, opening up this week, and they’re ready to outfit you with everything you need for a relaxing day on the water (regardless of the season). Check out this 5 Questions segment with Jay Waide of Roanoke Angler.

Roanoke Angler owner and guide Jay Waide.

Give us a little history here. What’s the backstory of Roanoke Angler?

I have been a full-time fishing guide in Southwest Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Alaska since 2009. After years of visiting family in the area and exploring the fisheries, I couldn’t help but notice the lack of a small, independently-owned fly shop in Roanoke. In early 2023, I decided to relocate and open Roanoke Angler by the end of the year. I am excited to have made that happen and become part of the Roanoke Valley’s burgeoning outdoor community.

Roanoke Angler Storefront

What can we expect from Roanoke Angler? Is it just a place to grab fly fishing gear?

Roanoke Angler is proud to operate as both a full-service fly shop and guide service! The brick-and-mortar shop is located in the oldest building in Grandin Village on Grandin Road and just minutes from the Roanoke River. We have most fly-fishing essentials and apparel, and we strive to provide a welcoming and informative atmosphere. The guide service is happy to offer a number of different trip options across the region for anyone from beginners to experts.

Inside the new Roanoke Angler fishing shop

Is Roanoke Angler/fishing a seasonal thing?

One of the great things about the Roanoke area is the opportunity to fish 12 months out of the year! Because of this, the fly shop is open year-round, providing anglers with gear and information. Since there is always something to fish for, the guide service can get you fishing no matter the time of year.

What are a few of your favorite species and rivers to fish around Roanoke and beyond?

Depending on what I want to catch, I’ve got a few spots I enjoy. I hit upper James River and upper New River for smallmouth and musky; Roanoke River as a quick fix for trout; Jackson and Smith Rivers for Virginia tailwater trout; and S. Holston and Watauga Rivers for Tennessee tailwater trout and striped bass.

Holt, the Roanoke Angler shop manager and tennis ball aficionado

Well, we can’t wait until you’re open officially and folks can start taking advantage of your wealth of knowledge and inventory. How can folks learn more about Roanoke Angler?

You can visit us online at www.roanokeangler.com, check us out on Instagram at @roanokeangler, give us a call 540-266-2709, or we would love to see you at the shop and talk fishing! We’re located at 1502 Grandin Rd SW.