ABOUT RUSTY CHINNIS
"Great things are done by a series of small things brought together" - Vincent Van Gogh
Photojournalist
Rusty Chinnis is an award-winning outdoor photographer, specializing in bird, landscape and coastal photography. Rusty is a fly fishing and travel writer with credits in Eastern Fly Fishing, American Angler, Edible Sarasota Magazine, Fly Fishing in Saltwaters, Florida Sportsman, Sarasota Magazine, Sport Fishing, and many others. He also is a Fly Fishers International Certified Casting Instructor and U.S. Coast Guard Licensed captain.
Conservationist
Rusty Chinnis, a longtime conservationist and organizer, frequently writes columns about the need to vote for officials who support the environment and to oust those who don't. He is chairman of the board of Suncoast Waterkeeper (suncoastwaterkeeper.org), a founder and former co-chairman of the Sister Keys Conservancy (sisterkeys.org) and founder and chairman emeritus of Sarasota Bay Watch. He was instrumental in forming the Manatee Chapter of the Florida Conservation Association, now the Coastal Conservation Association, and served as its first president.
Fly Fishing Instructor
We wholeheartedly endorse Rusty as a fly casting instructor. His relaxed approach, combined with exceptional expertise and unwavering patience, transforms the learning of fly casting into an enjoyable and effective experience. Rusty’s genuine passion for the sport not only shines through but also fosters a positive and educational environment for anglers of all skill levels.
— AMI Outfitters
Rusty Chinnis studies his students and gives appropriate and helpful instructions to correct errors, improve competence and achieve new skills. He is direct without being overbearing, while maintaining his pleasant demeanor and ensuring that casting a fly is fun. Thanks Rusty!
— The Rev. Canon Dr. Stephen Booth