Two newcomers have joined the board of the American Fly Fishing Trade Association (AFFTA).

Following the departure of Ian Crabtree of Scott Fly Rods and Florida Keys guide, Bruce Chard, the two seats have been filled by Steve Bendzak, Vice President of Sales at Simms Fishing Products, and Dr Brandon Shuler, freelance journalist and Oceans Advocate for The Oceans Conservancy.

AFFTA Board Chairman Tucker Ladd said: "I am thrilled that both Steve and Brandon are able to fill these vacancies at short notice. The wealth of knowledge brought by both individuals is a huge win for AFFTA and the fly fishing industry as a whole."

AFFTA President, Ben Bulis, added: "I have been lucky enough to work with both Steve and Brandon over the last year and could not be more pleased to have them on board and lending their experience towards our mission of moving forward the sport of fly fishing."

The next meeting of the AFFTA Board of Directors takes place during the Fly Fishing Show in Somerset, New Jersey, on January 22nd.

Read more at Angling International here: http://www.angling-international.com/newcomers-join-affta-board/