Scorcher | Filmmaker: Michael Robert Thienes

Welcome to the 2026 Stimmies Angler’s Choice Awards, presented by Scientific Anglers, Fly Fusion Magazine and IF4™. After being selected as finalists by our panel of judges, these outstanding films are now in your hands. Voting opens July 27 and closes August 31.

This year, The Stimmies features two award categories, and you may cast one vote in each category. Simply click on each film to watch it, then vote for your favourite in that category. Each category winner will be recognized, and the film receiving the most votes overall will be crowned the 2026 Angler’s Choice winner, earning the Grand Prize, including consideration as an Official Selection in the 2027 International Fly Fishing Film Festival.

As an added bonus, every voter is automatically entered into our weekly draws for incredible fly fishing gear and prizes throughout the voting period.

Scorcher follows fly angler and artist Jake Keeler and filmmaker Mike Thienes as they reconnect with the creative spirit that first drew them to fly fishing. Centered on the world of smallmouth bass and featuring insights from respected anglers including Tim Landwehr, Kyle Zempel, and Aaron Przybylski, the film explores curiosity, originality, and the enduring inspiration found beyond the sport’s mainstream. Paired with a nostalgic soundtrack by Mr. Dibbs and a visual style inspired by classic skate films, Scorcher is a celebration of creativity, exploration, and the idea that the most meaningful fly-fishing stories are often found close to home.