Don Tretsky has been a cornerstone of our local fishing community for over two decades. Since South Branch Outfitters opened three years ago, Don has been a familiar face, welcoming customers and sharing his deep knowledge and passion for the outdoors. Before joining us, Don spent 17 years at Shannon's Fly & Tackle, helping to build the legacy that our shop continues today. His dedication and warmth have bridged the two shops, making him a fixture in our store and in the hearts of so many who walk through our doors.

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Recently, Don's health has begun to decline as age catches up with him. He is now preparing for hip replacement surgery, a major step that will require a significant recovery period and medical expenses. As Don faces this challenge, we want to rally around him and offer the support he needs. Please know that every dollar raised here goes directly to Don to help cover his insurance co-pays and any at-home care he may need during his recovery. Our goal is to ease his financial burden so he can focus entirely on healing.

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Historically, this time of year, our shop would collect funds to stock trout in the river as part of our memorial to Shannon's Fly & Tackle's late owner, Jim Holland. This season, we invite our community to consider Donating for Don instead of contributing to the Winter Stocking Fund—not because we want to forget Jim, but because we know Jim would want us to do this for one of his best friends. Jim was a selfless soul, always thinking of others, and we believe honoring Don in this way is a true tribute to Jim's legacy.

​To ensure the tradition continues, we are happy to announce that the winter stocking is fully funded. Thanks to the generous folks who have already contributed to the in-shop jar, South Branch Outfitters is stepping in to cover the balance so that our community can direct its generosity entirely toward Don’s recovery. We will be stocking the same amount of fish as last year—including a tagged Bubba to chase for a prize—but this season, we hope your support can go to the man who has given so much to all of us.

​We hope you'll join us in Donating For Don this holiday season and show what makes our community so special.