Draft:Bart Carver
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Bart Carver (c. 1942 – 2025) was an American fly fisherman, guide, and multiple world-record holder. He was widely recognized for his expertise in "quality water" trout fishing, specifically on the Salmon River in New York and the San Juan River in New Mexico. During his career, he established several International Game Fish Association (IGFA) world records for trout caught on light tippet.[1]
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Early life and record-setting
Carver spent his early angling career in the Northeastern United States. He became a prominent figure in the Great Lakes fly fishing community during the 1980s and 1990s, particularly on the Salmon River in Pulaski, New York.
It was during this period that Carver established multiple IGFA World Records for brown trout and rainbow trout. His records were primarily in "tippet-class" categories, which recognize the heaviest fish caught on specific breaking-strength lines (such as 2-lb, 4-lb, or 8-lb test).[1] His technical proficiency in landing large Great Lakes "lake-run" trout on light tackle was featured in several national sporting publications, including Field & Stream.[2]
Career on the San Juan River
In 1998, Carver relocated to the Southwest, where he became a foundational guide on the San Juan River in New Mexico. He served as a senior guide for Soaring Eagle Lodge in Navajo Dam, New Mexico, for over two decades.[3]
Carver was credited with popularizing specific "San Juan-style" midge and annelid patterns and was frequently cited as an expert on the river's unique tailwater ecology. He appeared in numerous fly fishing films and instructional videos, including features by Mad River Outfitters, demonstrating technical sight-fishing and drift techniques.[4]
Death and legacy
Carver died in early 2025 at the age of 83.[5] He is remembered in the fly fishing community for his mentorship of younger guides and his contributions to the technical standards of light-tackle fly fishing.