Hubbry Logo
Lefty KrehLefty KrehMain
Open search
Lefty Kreh
Community hub
Lefty Kreh
logo
7 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Lefty Kreh
Lefty Kreh
Lefty Kreh
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Bernard "Lefty" Kreh (February 26, 1925 – March 14, 2018) was an American fly fisherman, photographer and fly casting instructor who resided most recently in Hunt Valley, Maryland.[1] Kreh is most known for being one of the pioneers of saltwater fly fishing[2][3] and his book, Fly Fishing in Salt Water, is considered the seminal volume on the subject.[4]

Key Information

His wife, Evelyn Kreh,[1] died in November 2011. They had two children, Victoria and Larry, and several grandchildren, Larry's son Larry Jr, and Victoria's children, Matthew (soon to be married to Katherine), Hillary (married to Ronald) and Sammantha (married to Colin), as well as great-grandchildren from Hillary and Ronald, Alexandria, Allyssa, Ryan, Emily, and William.

Early years

[edit]

Kreh was born February 26, 1925, in Frederick, Maryland, where he attended Frederick High School. His parents were Theodore (aka "Whitey"), who died in a basketball accident when Kreh was eight; and Helen M. Purdy. His father taught him about fishing, and after he died Lefty would bring fish home for his mother and three siblings, Eileen, Dick and Teddy.

Lefty served in the Battle of The Bulge. He said they barely ate, and always were cold. He was one of the men who helped to take the Ludendorff Bridge from the Germans in the Battle of Remagen. That battle and victory was a turning point in the European theatre for WW2. After serving in World War II, Kreh was one of three US servicemen infected with anthrax, and the only one to survive. The strain he was infected with was named BVK-I as a result.

He began fly-fishing in 1947 while serving as a guide for the famous fly fisherman Joe Brooks.[5] In 1965 he moved to Miami, Florida, and became the Director of the Metropolitan Fishing Tournament. He wrote for various fishing magazines. He is known throughout to always throw his fish back, keeping the flow in the waters for more fish. He began to fish for saltwater species in the Florida Keys. It was during this time that Kreh, Joe Brooks, Al Pflueger, Tom McNally, George Hommel, Stu Apte and Bob Stearn's pioneered the techniques, deviating from the classic "Ten to Two" casting technique,[6] that modern saltwater anglers use to pursue fish with fly fishing gear.

Career

[edit]

In addition to his fishing accomplishments, Kreh had been an active outdoor writer for more than forty-five years.[7] He wrote for most major outdoor magazines. He was the retired outdoor editor of The Baltimore Sun and held a staff position on several outdoor magazines. Kreh was also an accomplished photographer. On top of all of this, he was part of the TFO rod company and played a key role in the creation of several rods, including the Lefty Kreh series and BVK series (named after the strain of anthrax he survived, BVK-1).[8]

Creation of Lefty's Deceiver

[edit]
photo of large brown and white fishing fly
Brown and white fur Deceiver

Lefty's Deceiver is an artificial fly commonly categorized as a streamer fly which is fished under the water's surface. It is a popular and widely used pattern for both predacious freshwater and saltwater game fish. It is generally considered one of the top patterns to have in any fly box.[9] Kreh invented the Deceiver fly in the late 1950s as a streamer that would be easy to cast in wind and would not "foul" (or wrap around the bend of the hook) a common problem for older streamer patterns.[10] The original Lefty's Deceiver was tied in as a white pattern, but fly tiers have recreated the pattern in a variety of colors. A darker colored top with a lighter bottom (mimicking the various forage fishes that larger fishes feed upon) is the most popular design. The Deceiver is arguably the best-known saltwater fly pattern in the world, and in 1991 the U.S. Postal Service honored Kreh’s creation with a postage stamp.[11]

Instruction

[edit]

In 2010, the first "Lefty Kreh Flyfishing Challenge Course" was created as the centerpiece of instruction at HomeWaters University, which is located in Spruce Creek, Pennsylvania. Kreh designed the course himself, incorporating dry land, still water and moving water into various casting stations. He called it a "challenge" course, as opposed to a "casting" course, because he included real-world fly-fishing conditions. Scenarios include the need for long casts, short and precise presentations, casting into the wind, casting with no room for a back cast, and dealing with boulders, rapidly moving water, logs, and other floating debris. A historical journey of Lefty's instruction can be found in the [12] Loop Publication (April–July 2017) which is published by Fly Fishers International. The piece is a reflection in Lefty's words about his life teaching and instructing fly casting with an interview by Mac Brown.

Awards and honors

[edit]

Kreh received the prestigious "Lifetime Achievement Award" by the American Sportfishing Association, has been honored with the "Lifetime Contribution Award" by the North American Fly Tackle Trade Association, and is also in the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame. In 1997 he was named "Angler of the Year" by Fly Rod and Reel Magazine. In 2003 Kreh was inducted to the International Game Fish Association Hall of Fame.[13] Kreh has served a number of years as Senior Advisor to Trout Unlimited, the Federation of Fly Fishers. Lefty was inducted with [14] Mac Brown in the category of recreation into the [15] Fly Fishing Museum of Southern Appalachia Hall of Fame in 2018.

Media appearances

[edit]

Video Games: The iPad games Chuckin' Bugs 101 and Olive the Woolly Bugger pay homage to Kreh. One of the main characters, "Lefty Crayfish", is an anthropomorphized crayfish named after the famous fisherman. Beginning in 2010, Lefty co-hosted the Outdoor Channel fishing show Buccaneers & Bones, along with host/narrator and retired news anchor Tom Brokaw, several other outdoor professionals, and entertainment personalities. The show is shot on location on the coast of Belize and the Bahamas and features the cast teaming up with local guides. The focus of the show is to draw attention to the efforts of The Bonefish and Tarpon Trust, a conservation and research organization dedicated to the preservation of the two warm climate saltwater gamefish species.

Legacy

[edit]

Much of Lefty Kreh's personal collection of angling memorabilia, tackle, literature, and original fly patterns are held by the American Museum of Fly Fishing in Manchester, Vermont. [16] A fishing access trail along the Gunpowder Falls in Baltimore County, Maryland is named after Kreh. The waterway, which has undergone extensive habitat restoration to become a premier cold water trout fishery, is only a few miles from Kreh's home.

Death

[edit]

Kreh died of congestive heart failure at his home in Cockeysville, Maryland, March 14, 2018.[17][18]

Bibliography

[edit]

Sources

[edit]
  • [1] Biography
  • [2] Archived 2009-02-14 at the Wayback Machine Instructional video on tying Lefty's Deceiver
  • [3] Q&A With Fly-Fishing Expert Lefty Kreh
  • [4] Q&A with Lefty Kreh
  • [5] Lesson in Timelessness by a Fly-Fishing Master
  • [6] "The Big Catch: Fly-Fishing Guru 'Lefty' Kreh of Maryland is Still Making a Splash" by Dave Jamieson
  • [7] Archived 2012-05-08 at the Wayback Machine "Q&A With Bernard "Lefty" Kreh" by Samantha Carmichael

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Lefty Kreh

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Bernard "Lefty" Kreh (February 26, 1925 – March 14, 2018) was an American pioneer, author, and instructor widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the sport's modern history. Born Victor Kreh in , he developed a lifelong passion for and was nicknamed "Lefty" for his left-handed skills in and other sports, though he often cast right-handed when instructing others. Kreh served in the U.S. Army during as an artilleryman in Europe, participating in the liberation of , before returning home to pursue and outdoor writing. His career spanned over six decades, during which he authored more than 30 books on , including the seminal Fly Fishing in Salt Water (1974), which helped establish saltwater fly fishing as a viable pursuit beyond traditional freshwater streams. Kreh innovated casting techniques, emphasizing practical instruction for everyday anglers, and created the iconic "Lefty's Deceiver" fly pattern, which gained such prominence that it was honored on a 1991 U.S. Postal Service stamp. As a globe-trotting angler and mentor, Kreh taught casting clinics worldwide, influenced generations of fishermen through films, articles in publications like Sports Afield and Field & Stream, and co-founded the International Game Fish Association's saltwater fly-fishing committee. He died of congestive heart failure at his home in Cockeysville, Maryland, predeceased by his wife, Evelyn, after 66 years of marriage, survived by two children, and a legacy as the "greatest teacher" in fly fishing.

Early Life and Military Service

Childhood and Family Background

Bernard Victor Kreh, known as Lefty, was born on February 26, 1925, in , to parents of modest means who lived on North Bentz Street. His father, Theodore Kreh (known as "Whitey"), worked as a and died in a workplace accident in 1932 when Lefty was seven years old. Following his father's death, Lefty's mother, Helen, raised him and his three siblings—Lois Eileen, Richard, and Theodore (Ted)—amid the hardships of the , relying on public assistance in one of the city's poorer neighborhoods. The family's working-class background and close-knit community in Frederick fostered Lefty's early interest in the outdoors, with his siblings and local friends encouraging shared activities like exploring nearby woods and waterways. As a , Lefty developed a passion for through informal bait in local streams and rivers, such as the Monocacy and Potomac, often walking to these spots without any formal instruction. These early experiences, driven by necessity and curiosity during lean times, involved catching fish like for food or even to sell locally by his high school years, igniting a lifelong dedication to the sport. Lefty attended Frederick High School, graduating in 1942 with limited details available on his formal education beyond completing secondary school. This foundational period of family resilience and outdoor immersion prepared him for the significant changes brought by his subsequent enlistment in the U.S. Army.

World War II Service

Kreh was drafted into the U.S. Army shortly after graduating from high school in 1942. Assigned to the 69th Infantry Division, he trained as an artillery forward observer before deploying to in late 1944, where his unit advanced across and toward the German border. In this role, he positioned himself ahead of advancing infantry lines to spot enemy positions and direct fire, often under intense combat conditions. Kreh's most harrowing experiences came during the in December 1944, the last major German offensive on the Western Front. Serving as a forward observer and occasionally as a foot soldier or crewman, he endured extreme cold and constant danger, with his unit suffering devastating losses—one of only four survivors from his 12-man forward observer team, all wounded. For his actions in this and other campaigns across , , and , Kreh received five battle stars and for wounds sustained in combat. As his division advanced into in early 1945, Kreh's unit participated in the liberation of , where he witnessed the horrific conditions of the surviving prisoners. By early 1945, after his division linked up with Soviet forces at the River, the war in concluded for Kreh's unit, sparing him deployment to the Pacific Theater. He was honorably discharged in 1946 following nearly five years of service. Reintegrating into civilian life proved difficult, as the frontline horrors— including witnessing close friends killed—left lasting psychological scars that Kreh rarely discussed for decades. To cope during his recovery, he turned to his lifelong interest in , which offered a measure of solace amid the transition. Soon after, he took a job at the U.S. Army's biological warfare facility at in , where he contributed to research efforts while rebuilding his life.

Professional Career

Photography and Journalism

After returning from World War II service as a forward observer, where he honed photography skills, Lefty Kreh began his civilian career in visual media in the late by contributing photographs and articles to local newspapers, including the Frederick News-Post in the . These early efforts built on his military-honed observational abilities, allowing him to document outdoor scenes with a practical, firsthand approach that distinguished his work. Kreh joined in 1972 as a and , eventually rising to outdoor editor, a role he held until his retirement in 1990. During this 18-year tenure, he produced three columns per week, covering fishing locales, equipment, and natural phenomena, often illustrated with his own photographs to educate local audiences on outdoor pursuits. Beyond local , Kreh contributed extensively to national publications starting in the mid-1950s, blending his with narratives in outlets such as Field & Stream and Outdoor Life. His images, captured using early 35mm cameras, were among the first to accompany outdoor stories in these magazines, enhancing reader engagement and establishing him as a pioneering photojournalist in the field. In 1964, Kreh relocated to to direct the Metropolitan Miami Fishing Tournament, a position that expanded his focus to saltwater environments and influenced his photojournalism on coastal . This move allowed him to document marine species and techniques for publications like The and Florida Sportsman, further integrating visual storytelling with emerging trends in offshore fishing.

Fly Fishing and Guiding

Kreh's introduction to fly fishing occurred in 1947 while guiding on the in , where he transitioned from conventional bait to the fly rod after being outfished by outdoor writer Joe Brooks during a smallmouth bass trip. Brooks, recognizing Kreh's potential, provided initial instruction and encouraged his development in the sport, marking the beginning of a lifelong that influenced Kreh's early career. Self-taught through subsequent practice on local streams, Kreh honed his skills targeting freshwater species like and in and waters. By the early 1950s, following his return from service, Kreh established himself as a professional guide on the upper , specializing in for local anglers and visiting fishermen. His guiding operations expanded to include trips in Pennsylvania's streams, where he built a reputation for consistent success using fly techniques adapted from his freshwater experiences. These efforts laid the groundwork for his broader contributions, as his photography work occasionally documented these outings, providing early platforms to share his angling insights. In the , Kreh pioneered saltwater by relocating to , where he targeted challenging species like and in the Keys and , adapting freshwater methods to the demanding marine environment. Notable achievements included landing and releasing large on fly in the late 1960s, which helped demonstrate the viability of the technique, and a record-setting day catching four on fly—unprecedented at the time and instrumental in popularizing the pursuit. As director of the Metropolitan Miami Fishing Tournament from 1964 to 1972, Kreh organized events that promoted saltwater , fostering collaborations with figures like Joe Brooks to advance the sport's growth through shared expeditions and advocacy. After leaving the tournament in 1972, he briefly worked at the St. Petersburg Times before joining .

Innovations in Fly Fishing

Casting Techniques

Lefty Kreh revolutionized fly casting in the mid-20th century by developing techniques that prioritized efficiency, , and adaptability over the rigid, wrist-dominated methods prevalent at the time. In 1957, while guiding in , Kreh perfected a body-pivot style that involved extending the arm far back with a stable elbow and straight wrist, replacing the traditional "stiff whipping" motion and adding up to 20 feet of in demonstrations. This approach, further detailed in his 1965 Outdoor Life article, incorporated a longer, flatter and torso rotation to form tighter line loops, which reduced air resistance and enhanced accuracy in windy conditions compared to the conventional "10 o'clock to 2 o'clock" arc. Kreh's emphasis on loop formation stemmed from his observation that a straight-line path for the rod tip during acceleration and a sharp stop created compact, aerodynamic loops essential for precise delivery. For saltwater fishing, Kreh adapted his techniques to handle heavy flies, strong winds, and extended lines, drawing from his experiences in during the late 1960s and early 1970s. He promoted overhead casts for maximum power in open water, sidearm casts to punch through crosswinds by keeping the line low, and roll casts to unroll heavy leaders without backroom space, all of which allowed anglers to target species like and under challenging coastal conditions. These variations built on influences like the Belgian cast, which maintains continuous tension on the line through an elliptical rod path and short, sharp snaps, preventing collapses in loops during delivery of bulky saltwater flies. Kreh's five core principles—longer rod arcs for power, initiating line movement before each cast, directing the fly via rod tip trajectory, controlling loop size through speed and stop, and using a palm-forward grip for torque—formed the foundation of his "Kreh cast" system, adaptable for light freshwater tackle or heavy ocean gear. Kreh's methods played a pivotal role in modern fly casting instruction by promoting personalized styles over rigid orthodoxy, as evidenced by his teachings that encouraged body opening and extended strokes for distance while maintaining straight-line physics for loop stability. He demonstrated these techniques at major events, including the International Fly Fishing Fair and similar shows like the Fly Fishing Show, where he tailored instruction from basic loop formation for beginners—focusing on lifting the line end and avoiding bend—to advanced variations like and casts for experts, often 60 feet effortlessly to illustrate principles. These sessions, honed through his early guiding in , influenced generations of instructors and helped standardize tight-loop as a benchmark in contemporary education.

Fly Patterns and Equipment

One of Lefty Kreh's most enduring contributions to fly fishing was the of the Lefty's Deceiver in the late 1950s, specifically designed for targeting in the . This streamer pattern imitated baitfish like smelt, utilizing a collar of white bucktail flanked by saddle hackle feathers on each side to create an erratic, lifelike swimming action in the water, while its streamlined profile minimized wind resistance during casts. The fly's construction, featuring a silver Mylar body, Krystal Flash accents, and a translucent head, allowed it to be tied in sizes up to 3/0 hooks, making it versatile for saltwater environments. Over time, the Lefty's Deceiver evolved through numerous variations adapted for other species, including larger profiles with enhanced flash for and more subdued, shrimp-like iterations for permit, reflecting Kreh's emphasis on practical baitfish across diverse fisheries. These adaptations maintained the core bucktail and elements but incorporated color schemes like olive and white or red and gold to match regional prey, broadening its application from coastal stripers to flats species in the and beyond. The pattern's commercialization began in the 1960s as it gained popularity among anglers, becoming a staple in saltwater fly boxes due to its effectiveness and ease of tying, often credited as one of the most widely used streamer flies in the discipline. Beyond the Deceiver, Kreh contributed to fly rod design through his collaboration with Temple Fork Outfitters (TFO), founded in 1997, where he served as the lead rod designer and helped develop affordable, high-performance models suited to his loop-based casting techniques. These rods, such as the early and series, featured progressive tapers that supported versatile line handling and smooth loops, enabling anglers to effectively present patterns like the Deceiver in challenging conditions. A cultural milestone for the pattern came in 1991 when the U.S. Postal Service issued a 29-cent stamp featuring the Lefty's Deceiver as part of its Fishing Flies commemorative series, recognizing its iconic status in American angling heritage. This honor, released on May 31 in Cuddebackville, New York, underscored the fly's widespread influence and Kreh's role in popularizing modern saltwater fly fishing.

Teaching and Instruction

Books and Publications

Lefty Kreh authored or co-authored more than 30 books on techniques, equipment, and species-specific strategies, many of which drew from his decades of guiding experience and became foundational texts for anglers worldwide. These works emphasized practical instruction, innovative methods, and troubleshooting, helping to standardize and popularize modern practices across freshwater and saltwater environments. His debut book, Fly Fishing in Saltwater, published in 1974 by Crown Publishers, marked a milestone as one of the first comprehensive guides to the genre, offering detailed advice on tackle, knots, leaders, fly patterns, tides, and long-distance casting tailored to saltwater species like , , and permit. The 252-page volume sold thousands of copies in its initial run and addressed the unique challenges of saltwater , such as wind resistance and larger flies, filling a gap in the literature at the time. Kreh's output grew steadily through the 1980s and beyond, with titles like Fishing the Flats (1983, co-authored with Mark Sosin and published by Nick Lyons Books), which focused on shallow-water strategies for species such as and snook, and became a go-to resource for fishing with multiple reprints. He continued exploring casting mechanics in later works, including Advanced Fly Casting (1994, Odysseus Editions), a 160-page guide that advanced techniques for distance, accuracy, and specialized casts like the roll and , building on his signature elliptical motion. By the 2000s, Casting with Lefty Kreh (2008, Stackpole Books) offered 468 pages of illustrated solutions to common errors, such as tailing loops and slack-line issues, solidifying his role as a master instructor. Collaborations were a key aspect of Kreh's bibliography, particularly with Mark Sosin on enduring titles like Practical Fishing Knots (first published 1972 by Crown Publishers, with revised editions including 1991 by Lyons Press and updates through 2023), which detailed over 70 knots for light-tackle and applications, achieving widespread among anglers for its clarity and reliability. Other co-authored efforts, such as revisions to saltwater classics, further refined core knowledge. Kreh's books were primarily issued by reputable outdoor publishers including Stackpole Books and Lyons Press, many attaining status in categories due to their and impact, with several—like the 2003 Lyons Press edition of Fly Fishing in Saltwater—maintaining strong sales and relevance long after his 2018 death.

Workshops and Media Appearances

Kreh pioneered hands-on fly-casting instruction starting in the mid-1950s, conducting clinics at local fishing clubs across the and that evolved into global workshops by the . These sessions, often held at outdoor venues like ponds in , taught practical techniques to thousands of participants from diverse backgrounds, including beginners, professionals, and even children, emphasizing adaptability over rigid methods. His approach democratized , making it accessible beyond elite circles, and he continued offering personalized lessons and group programs well into his later years, such as a 2012 clinic in . To broaden his instructional impact, Kreh produced video series in the through the , including Lefty Kreh on Fly Casting, a detailed demonstration of core techniques like the roll cast, double haul, and slack-line presentations for various conditions. Collaborations with fly-fishing brands, such as Orvis-endorsed productions and Lessons with Lefty, featured step-by-step visuals that guided viewers through specialized casts, reaching audiences unable to attend live sessions and serving as essential tools for self-taught anglers. These videos highlighted his four principles of casting—straight line path, proper stroke, loop control, and power application—adopted by instructors worldwide. Kreh's media presence extended to television, where he appeared as a guest on shows like starting in the 1960s and later Walker's Cay Chronicles, showcasing live casting demos and fishing adventures that introduced his methods to non-anglers and international viewers. His charismatic explanations of technique during these broadcasts, combined with on-location segments from destinations like the and , popularized fly fishing's nuances to mainstream audiences. At events hosted by the International Federation of Fly Fishers (IFFF), Kreh delivered lectures and led free clinics from the onward, tailoring content for youth programs, professional guides, and hobbyists to foster development and . These interactive sessions at conclaves and shows often included adaptive instruction for diverse levels, reinforcing his legacy as a mentor who prioritized encouragement over perfection.

Awards, Honors, and Legacy

Major Recognitions

Lefty Kreh received numerous accolades throughout his career, recognizing his innovations in fly casting, fly tying, and instruction that transformed the sport of . In 1991, the honored his creation of the Lefty's Deceiver fly pattern by featuring it on a 29-cent stamp in the "Fishing Flies" series, highlighting its significance as a versatile saltwater lure designed to imitate baitfish without fouling. Following the publication of several influential books in the 1980s and 1990s, Kreh's teaching and writing gained widespread acclaim. He was named Angler of the Year by Fly Rod & Reel magazine in 1997, acknowledging his expertise as both a practitioner and educator who popularized advanced techniques. Kreh's contributions to the were further enshrined through multiple hall of fame inductions. He was inducted into the Catskill Fly Fishing Museum Hall of Fame on January 1, 2001, for his prolific writing, innovative fly patterns, and decades of instructional work that advanced knowledge. In 2003, the International Game Fish Association inducted him into its Fishing Hall of Fame, citing his roles as an angler, innovator, educator, and author who elevated globally. He was also inducted into the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame, recognizing his broad impact on freshwater angling traditions. In the mid-2000s, as his instructional videos and workshops reached international audiences, Kreh received the American Sportfishing Association's Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring his lifelong dedication to promoting ethical and sportfishing . That same period saw him awarded the Lifetime Contribution Award by the North American Fly Fishing Trade Association (now the American Fly Fishing Trade Association), celebrating his influence on equipment innovation and the growth of the industry. Kreh held Master Certified Casting Instructor status with Fly Fishers International (formerly the International Federation of Fly Fishers), a he helped shape through his involvement in the organization's casting programs, underscoring his authority in fly casting pedagogy.

Influence and Conservation Efforts

Kreh's influence extended through his mentorship of prominent figures in the fly fishing world, such as Flip Pallot, who credited Kreh as his lifelong mentor and a guiding force in both fishing techniques and personal philosophy. Their relationship, which evolved from formal mentorship to a deep brotherhood, exemplified Kreh's role in shaping generations of anglers through direct guidance and shared experiences over decades. Additionally, Kreh's creation of the Deceiver fly pattern in the 1960s revolutionized saltwater fly tying, becoming a standard, versatile imitation adopted worldwide for its adaptability to various baitfish profiles and proven effectiveness in diverse conditions. Kreh played a pivotal role in modernizing by transforming it from a niche freshwater pursuit into a mainstream global activity, particularly through his pioneering efforts in saltwater applications during the mid-20th century. His innovations and teachings helped popularize techniques for targeting species like and , drawing in new participants and expanding the sport's reach beyond traditional boundaries. This shift influenced equipment design, notably through his foundational work with Temple Fork Outfitters (TFO), where he served as the original rod designer, contributing to affordable, high-performance rods like the LK Legacy series that embody his casting principles and accessibility ethos. In conservation, Kreh was a vocal advocate for catch-and-release practices, promoting them as essential for sustainable fisheries and influencing ethical standards among anglers since the 1950s. He actively supported organizations like Fly Fishers International, receiving their 1994 award for contributions to saltwater angling while contributing to casting instruction programs that emphasized responsible practices. From the 1990s onward, Kreh was a founding member of the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT), established in 1996, where he championed habitat protection for flats fisheries through advocacy and fundraising efforts spanning into the 2010s. Kreh's broader legacy lies in inspiring global angling communities by serving as an who democratized the sport, fostering international interest and participation through his writings, demonstrations, and unyielding commitment to . His conservation advocacy indirectly drove policy changes, as seen in BTT's initiatives for restoration and that have informed protections for coastal ecosystems and fisheries worldwide. Following his death, the Lefty Kreh Memorial Conservation Fund, established by BTT and Unlimited, continues to fund projects protecting fish habitats and promoting ethical on a global scale.

Personal Life and Death

Family and Later Years

Kreh married Evelyn Mask in 1947, shortly after his discharge from military service following , beginning a partnership that lasted over six decades and included shared interests in outdoor activities. The couple's close companionship was a cornerstone of Kreh's life, with Evelyn often described as his best friend and greatest personal achievement amid his professional endeavors. They had two children: a , Victoria Huffman, and a son, Larry Kreh. The family maintained strong ties to fishing, with Victoria actively involved in preserving her father's legacy through events and memorabilia sales, and grandchildren and great-grandchildren participating in traditions. Evelyn's death on November 25, 2011, marked the end of their enduring union after 64 years. After residing in from 1964 to 1972, where Kreh managed a major fishing tournament, the family returned to , eventually settling in the Hunt Valley area of Cockeysville. In these later years, Kreh remained engaged in personal pursuits, including extensive travel for expeditions, continued writing projects, and his hobby of outdoor photography, which he documented in a dedicated guidebook and practiced into his 90s.

Death and Tributes

Bernard "Lefty" Kreh died on March 14, 2018, at the age of 93 in his home in Cockeysville, , from congestive . A private funeral service was held for family, followed by interment at Mount Olivet Cemetery in . News of his death prompted widespread mourning within the global community, with tributes emphasizing his role as a transformative teacher and ambassador for . An obituary in described him as one of the pre-eminent sport fishermen of his era, crediting his innovations in casting techniques and instructional efforts. The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) honored Kreh as an iconic figure whose passion and expertise inspired generations, recalling his 2003 induction into their Hall of Fame. Similarly, the International Federation of Fly Fishers (IFFF), where Kreh served as a longtime casting instructor and board member, expressed profound loss, noting his foundational contributions to the organization's educational programs. In the years following his death, the Friends of Lefty Kreh nonprofit was established in 2021 by the Potomac Valley Fly Fishers Club to perpetuate his commitment to fly fishing education and natural resource conservation. In September 2025, the organization created The Lefty Kreh Legacy Fund to provide scholarships for students pursuing studies in , , fisheries, or . Additionally, in February 2025, the & Trust sponsored the release of the documentary film Lefty: The Greatest of All Time, which documents Kreh's remarkable life.

Bibliography

Books

Lefty Kreh authored over 30 books on , emphasizing practical techniques, knot tying, casting methods, and species-specific strategies, particularly in saltwater environments. His publications, issued by prominent houses including Crown Publishers, Lyons Press (an imprint of Globe Pequot), Stackpole Books, and Editions, frequently incorporated his personal and detailed line drawings to illustrate concepts clearly. These works have shaped modern instruction, with many titles revised across multiple editions to reflect advancements in gear and methods. Kreh's bibliography spans from foundational texts on casting to specialized guides on fly patterns like his iconic Lefty's Deceiver, a versatile streamer that revolutionized saltwater fly design. Collaborations with experts such as Mark Sosin and Mel Krieger expanded his reach, blending personal insights with co-authored expertise on topics like and fishing. A notable series, Lefty's Little Library of Fly Fishing, comprises 25 compact volumes published by Odysseus Editions around 1992, offering concise advice on everything from techniques to innovative tips, often with Kreh's illustrations enhancing accessibility. The following is a chronological selection of his major books, highlighting their focus and significance:
  • Practical Fishing Knots (1972, Crown Publishers): A foundational guide to reliable knots for light tackle and fly fishing, emphasizing strength and ease, with step-by-step illustrations; revised in later editions like 2007 by Stackpole Books.
  • Fly Fishing in Salt Water (1974, Crown Publishers; third revised edition 1997, Lyons Press): Explores saltwater species and tactics, including early discussions of the Lefty's Deceiver pattern; influential for popularizing fly fishing in marine environments.
  • L.L. Bean Guide to Outdoor Photography (1988, Lyons Press): Draws on Kreh's photography skills to teach capturing angling scenes, integrating his fly fishing expertise.
  • Contributor to The Masters on the Nymph (1988, edited by J. Michael Migel and Leonard M. Wright, Jr., Nick Lyons Books Book 0941130967): Compiles expert insights on nymphing techniques, showcasing Kreh's collaborative approach to subsurface fly fishing.
  • Longer Fly Casting (1991, Lyons Press): Details methods for distance casting, including hauling and overhead techniques, with over 1,000 photographs; a core text for advanced casters.
  • Fly Fishing for Bonefish, Permit & Tarpon (2002, Lyons Press): Focuses on tropical flats species, with strategies for sight fishing and fly presentation; part of Kreh's Deceiver-centric saltwater series.
  • Advanced Fly Casting (1995, Odysseus Editions; 2001, Lyons Press): Builds on basic casts with wind-resistant and accuracy drills, illustrated by Kreh's photos; widely used in casting instruction programs.
  • Saltwater Fly Patterns (1995, second edition, Globe Pequot Press): Profiles 35 patterns, including the Lefty's Deceiver in various sizes and colors, with tying instructions and usage tips; essential for pattern innovation.
  • Lefty Kreh’s Presenting the Fly (1999, Lyons Press): Analyzes drift, drag, and presentation nuances with over 100 photos and drawings; considered a seminal work on fly behavior in water.
  • Fly Fishing for Bass (2004, Lyons Press): Adapts fly tactics for largemouth and smallmouth bass, incorporating Deceiver variations; bridges freshwater and saltwater methods.
  • Lefty Kreh’s Ultimate Guide to Fly Fishing (2003, Lyons Press): Comprehensive overview of gear, knots, and strategies across environments; includes updates on technique evolutions.
  • Modern Fly Casting Methods (2003, Stackpole Books): Covers non-traditional casts like curve and roll, with photographic sequences; reflects Kreh's push for adaptive instruction.
  • Fly Fishing Knots and Connections (2004, Lyons Press): Expands on knot systems for leaders and tippets, with practical tests; a companion to his earlier knot books.
  • Casting with Lefty Kreh (2008, Stackpole Books): Step-by-step guide to over 40 casts, featuring thousands of full-color photos; hailed as the definitive casting manual.
  • My Life Was This Big (2008, Lyons Press): Autobiographical tales of fishing adventures, blending humor and lessons; showcases Kreh's storytelling alongside technical insights.
  • Fly Casting Fundamentals (2011, Stackpole Books): Beginner-friendly breakdown of basics, with progression to intermediates; updated with modern rod insights.
Additional titles in the Lefty's Little Library series, such as Advanced Fly Casting for Greater Distance (1992, Editions) and Fly Fishing Knots and Connections (1992), provide bite-sized expertise, contributing to the series' role in democratizing knowledge. Kreh's later works, like 101 Fish: A Fly Fisher's Life List (2012, Lyons Press), offer reflective species profiles, underscoring his lifelong passion.

Articles and Other Writings

Kreh began his journalistic career in 1951 by selling his first outdoor column to the Frederick News-Post, where he wrote the regular feature " Afield" through the early 1960s, providing how-to guidance on and drawn from personal experience. By the mid-1950s, his work expanded to syndication in papers such as the Towson County Paper, Montgomery County Sentinel, and Winchester Star, emphasizing local outdoor activities and practical techniques. From 1972 to 1990, Kreh served as outdoors editor for , producing three columns weekly on topics including prime fishing locations, tackle recommendations, weather effects on , and appreciation for natural elements like wildflowers. In 1965, he published a seminal article titled "New Way to Fly Cast" in Outdoor Life, introducing his innovative sidearm casting method that revolutionized the sport. Kreh contributed hundreds of articles to major publications including Field & Stream, Outdoor Life, Salt Water Sportsman, and Fly Fisherman, where he held the role of and focused on actionable tips for in both freshwater and saltwater environments. For instance, his 1989 Fly Fisherman piece "Ten Saltwater Flies" detailed essential patterns for targeting species like , blending technical instruction with real-world application. These contributions, spanning over five decades from the 1950s to the 2010s, totaled uncounted pieces that popularized through clear, experience-based prose. Throughout his career, Kreh's articles characteristically wove personal anecdotes—such as wartime tales or encounters with exotic —with straightforward advice on casting, knot-tying, and behavior, fostering an accessible yet authoritative tone. In non-column formats, he penned forewords for fellow authors' works, including the introduction to Berlocher's 2004 "Texas Saltwater Classics: Patterns for the Coast," praising innovative regional patterns. Later in life, Kreh made occasional contributions, such as a 2017 personal reflection on his health and enduring passion for the sport posted on Fin and Field.

References

  1. https://www.nytimes.com/2018/03/14/obituaries/lefty-kreh-a-fly-fisherman-with-few-peers-is-dead-at-93.html
  2. https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/obituaries/bernard-lefty-kreh-renowned-fisherman-and-outdoors-writer-dies-at-93/2018/03/15/e04c3bfc-2860-11e8-b79d-f3d931db7f68_story.html
  3. https://arc.lib.montana.edu/angling-oral-history/item/44
  4. https://www.flyfisherman.com/editorial/50-most-influential-fly-fishers/451814
  5. https://www.flyfisherman.com/editorial/lefty-kreh/151664
  6. https://www.friendsofleftykreh.com/lefty-kreh
  7. https://anglersjournal.com/people/profile-of-lefty-kreh/
  8. https://bayweekly.com/lefty-bernard-kreh/
  9. https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/fredericknewspost/name/richard-kreh-obituary?id=11807128
  10. https://gardenandgun.com/feature/southern-master-the-legend-of-lefty/
  11. https://pursuitgo.com/2022/08/01/how-i-fish-lefty-kreh/
  12. https://www.fredericknewspost.com/lefty-kreh-a-life-of-reel-adventure/article_caae84be-ad7f-5570-b3be-775d296c9577.html
  13. https://rethinkrural.raydientrural.com/blog/the-big-life-of-fly-fisherman-lefty-kreh
  14. https://www.flyfisherman.com/editorial/lefty/456433
  15. https://www.in-fisherman.com/editorial/local-legends-lefty-kreh/154357
  16. https://www.gearpatrol.com/archive/a77196/30-minutes-with-lefty-kreh/
  17. https://www.baltimoresun.com/2018/03/14/marylander-lefty-kreh-a-hall-of-famer-and-world-renowned-ambassador-of-[fishing](/page/Fishing)-dead-at-93/
  18. https://www.baltimoremagazine.com/section/sports/big-fish-the-legendary-life-of-lefty-kreh/
  19. https://www.bassfan.com/docktalk_article/19040/fishing-icon-lefty-kreh-93-passes
  20. https://www.floridasportsman.com/editorial/127932/399072
  21. https://www.sexyloops.com/flycasting/5principles.shtml
  22. https://news.orvis.com/fly-fishing/tuesday-tips-there-is-no-correct-casting-style
  23. https://bpw.maryland.gov/MeetingDocs/122111-Transcript.pdf
  24. https://www.flyfishersinternational.org/Portals/0/LearningCenter/Presentations/FlyTying/FFI_LC_Curriculum_11092_Saltwater_Fly_Tying_Manual__sm.pdf
  25. https://www.bonefishtarpontrust.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/btt_fall_18.pdf
  26. http://www.amff.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/1998-Vol24-No3web.pdf
  27. https://tforods.com/lefty-kreh/
  28. https://tforods.com/making-an-impact-my-favorite-tfo-rod-lefty-kreh/
  29. https://www.mysticstamp.com/2548-1991-29c-fishing-flies-leftys-deceiver/
  30. https://postalmuseum.si.edu/object/npm_1993.2015.109
  31. https://www.sportingclassicsstore.com/products/fly-fishing-in-salt-water-a-guide-for-all-game-species
  32. https://www.abebooks.com/first-edition/FLY-FISHING-SALT-WATER-Lefty-Kreh/31744804382/bd
  33. https://www.ebay.com/itm/226847166319
  34. https://edmitchelloutdoors.com/2020/03/29/fishing-the-flats-by-mark-sosin-and-lefty-kreh/
  35. https://www.amazon.com/Advanced-fly-casting-distance-effective/dp/B0006R02Y6
  36. https://www.amazon.com/Casting-Lefty-Kreh/dp/081170369X
  37. https://www.amazon.com/Fly-Fishing-Saltwater-Lefty-Kreh/dp/1592280781
  38. https://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/06/sports/lefty-kreh-remains-ambassador-for-fly-fishing-at-87.html
  39. https://www.fishingtv.com/en-us/video/lessons-with-lefty/
  40. https://www.caddisflyshop.com/lefty-on-fly-casting.html
  41. https://www.forbes.com/sites/monteburke/2018/03/14/lefty-kreh-giant-in-the-world-of-fly-fishing-passes-away/
  42. https://www.proptalk.com/an-afternoon-with-lefty-kreh
  43. https://www.globalrescue.com/common/blog/detail/fly-fishing-legend-lefty-kreh-is-newest-spokesman-for-global-rescue/
  44. https://cffcm.com/fly-fishing-hall-of-fame
  45. https://igfa.org/2018/11/09/remembering-an-angling-great-lefty-kreh/
  46. https://www.gameandfishmag.com/editorial/legendary-angler-lefty-kreh-dies-at-93/348727
  47. https://midcurrent.com/techniques/interview-lefty-kreh-on-a-lifetime-of-smallmouth-fishing/
  48. https://www.flyfishersinternational.org/Get-Involved/Casting-Instructor-Certification/Overview
  49. https://www.bonefishtarpontrust.org/blog/2012-02-17-flip-pallot-life-fishing/
  50. https://anglersjournal.com/saltwater/the-world-according-to-flip/
  51. https://charliesflybox.com/blogs/step-by-step-tutorials/deceiver
  52. https://flylordsmag.com/lefty-krehs-deceiver/
  53. https://flylifemagazine.com/news-q-a-with-fly-fishing-expert-lefty-kreh/
  54. https://coloradotu.org/blog/2018/03/farewell-to-a-legend-lefty-kreh
  55. https://www.flyfishersinternational.org/About-Us/Awards/Award-Past-Recipients
  56. https://www.bonefishtarpontrust.org/blog/2025-02-04-new-film-honors-the-legacy-of-btt-founding-member-lefty-kreh/
  57. https://www.frederickcountygives.org/press-releases/new-fund-honors-one-of-the-greatest-fly-fisherman-of-all-time/
  58. https://www.bonefishtarpontrust.org/leftykreh/
  59. https://www.tu.org/magazine/uncategorized/btt-and-tu-create-the-lefty-kreh-memorial-conservation-fund/
  60. https://tforods.com/another-perspective-on-lefty/
  61. https://www.facebook.com/groups/38898149301/posts/10161190879449302/
  62. https://www.amazon.com/L-L-Bean-Guide-Outdoor-Photography/dp/0394550358
  63. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/245554506/bernard-victor-kreh
  64. https://www.anglingtrade.com/2018/03/20/bernard-v-lefty-kreh-1925-2018/
  65. https://midcurrent.com/2023/10/17/lefty-kreh-remembered/
  66. https://www.friendsofleftykreh.com/
  67. https://www.marylandphilanthropy.org/news/new-fund-honors-one-greatest-fly-fisherman-all-time/
  68. https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/258165.Lefty_Kreh
  69. https://www.amazon.com/Presenting-Fly-Practical-Important-Element/dp/1558217886
  70. https://books.google.com/books/about/Saltwater_Fly_Patterns.html?id=iDwY6-YVASEC
  71. https://www.anglingbooks.com/BCR/BCR-Lefty%27sLittleLibrary.htm
  72. https://www.amazon.com/Fishing-Trout-Leftys-Little-Library/dp/B0006RA7XC
  73. https://www.thriftbooks.com/a/lefty-kreh/242695/
  74. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1656957.Fly_Fishing_in_Saltwater
  75. https://www.globepequot.com/9780811703697/casting-with-lefty-kreh/
  76. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3192189-lefty-kreh-s-presenting-the-fly
  77. https://www.royalgorgeanglers.com/casting-with-lefty-kreh.html
  78. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19035308-fly-casting-fundamentals
  79. https://www.amazon.com/Leftys-Little-Library-Fly-Fishing/dp/B000RIH0XU
  80. https://www.flyfisherman.com/editorial/lefty-kreh-ten-saltwater-flies/486682
  81. https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/remembering-fishing-legend-lefty-kreh/65-528970811
  82. https://www.amazon.com/Texas-Saltwater-Classics-Patterns-Coast/dp/0929980190
  83. https://blog.finandfield.com/fishing/a-note-from-lefty-kreh/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.