1991
A club takes shape
Frank and Mickey Miller recruited 14 fly fishers who shared their vision for a Federation of Fly Fishers charter club. After an organizational meeting in Denver, High Plains Drifters became a reality.
Established in 1991
The history of High Plains Drifters
What began with 16 dedicated fly fishers has grown into a community of more than 220 members who fish, learn, volunteer, and care for Colorado waters together.
2016
McKenzie Cup
Fly Fishers International awarded HPD the McKenzie Cup, recognizing an affiliated club for outstanding contributions on behalf of FFI.
Today
More than 220 members
HPD continues the founders’ “get it done” spirit through fishing trips, education, conservation, community service, and friendships built on the water.
HPD presidents
We thank the volunteer leaders who have helped guide the club.
- Randy Urlik · 1992–1993
- John Ehrhardt · 1994
- Steve Cole · 1995–1996
- Walt Dudley · 1997
- Greg Palcanis · 1998, 2001, 2007
- Dale Anderson · 1999
- Mason Howell · 2001
- Terry Weaverstad · 2002–2003
- Keith Durett · 2004
- Virgil Kelleigh · 2004
- Brian Cummings · 2005–2006
- Bob Appenzeller · 2008–2010
- Michael Lenzini · 2010–2011
- Brett Edwards · 2012–2013
- Tim Papich · 2013–2016
- Ivan Calhoun · 2016–2018
- Dan Hogan · 2019–2021
- Jeff Johnson · 2022–2026
- Ed Weston · 2026–present