Students in Lee University’s Anglers Fly Fishing course stepped into the stream for their first hands-on experience earlier this month, outfitted in high-quality waders and boots donated by David Luzader, owner of Ranger Outdoors LLC. 
 
The donation, valued at approximately $5,000, provides essential gear for students, many of whom are new to fly fishing and are enrolled in the experiential course taught by Dr. Brian DeLoach. 
 
“Our students not only participate in three fly fishing trips per semester but also engage in service-learning, which includes stream clean-up and often grueling trail maintenance,” said DeLoach. “All this activity requires durable waders and boots, as trout in this region only live in cold water. This generous donation from Mr. Luzader ensures our students stay dry and warm whether they’re fishing or working.” 
 
While the Anglers Fly Fishing course is technically offered through the Department of Health, Exercise Science & Secondary Education (HESSE) as an elective, the Campus Recreation office oversees the LeeU Angler’s Club and all non-academic aspects of the class, including equipment, budgets, and field trip experiences. 
 
Ranger Outdoors LLC is a local company that distributes goods in the fly fishing industry under the name Angler Sport Group. It owns several premium fly fishing brands, including Daiichi Hooks, Chota Outdoor Gear, Dinsmores, and C&F Design. Daiichi is widely used in the fly tying industry, while Chota supplies boots and waders to the fishing community. 
 
“Lee has been a part of our family for many years,” said Luzader. “We have two daughters and a son who all attended Lee. Lee is also a very important part of our community, and it’s an honor to support the university and some of its programs.” 
 
Luzader emphasized his hope that students will find more than just technical skills in the course. 
 
“I think it’s very important for students to truly learn and understand the beauty of God’s creation,” said Luzader. “Nothing beats standing in a mountain stream with a fly rod in your hand and connecting with His creation.” 
 
Luzader also noted that the donated gear was specifically selected for women. “This is a very underserved segment of the fly fishing community,” said Luzader. 
 
“We are deeply grateful for Mr. Luzader’s continued partnership and his investment in our students,” said Kevin Hudson, director of Campus Recreation at Lee. “This donation is more than just equipment; it’s a way to help our students fully engage with their learning and the outdoors.” 
 
The LeeU Angler’s Club and Flyfishing class emphasize both skill development and environmental stewardship, with students completing multiple field trips and service projects throughout the semester. 
 
For more information about the Lee U Anglers or the Flyfishing class, visit leeuniversity.edu/campus-recreation/outdoor/ or contact DeLoach at [email protected].