Finest was a signature tier for Umpqua. (See his patterns here.) Pictures courtesy Umpqua
On Thursday, August 21, the household of A.K. Finest revealed that he had actually died at the age of 92 after a short health problem. A business fly tier and author of books such as Production Fly Tying ( 1989 ), A.K.’s Fly Box ( 1996 ), and Advanced Fly Tying (2001 ), Best was a friend of John Gierach and appeared in a number of the late author’s stories. He likewise composed for Fly, Rod & Reel publication for several years.
On Best’s Facebook page, his kids composed:
The day before he passed, he shared his dream that when “he bailed out of this life,” his children and grandchildren “would more than happy.” He remained in great spirits, in peace and prepared.
