Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum appoints new executive director to lead

“The Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum is such a beautiful place with a clear mission that is exciting to share with others,” Abate said. “I am honored to be taking on this role and joining the committed staff, board and volunteers that are part of this vibrant community, and to continue teaching and preserving the cultural legacy of fly fishing. I’m also eager to grow and design innovative ways to interact with the fly fishers across the region and beyond, as well as to invite and encourage new visitors to enjoy and learn in this space.”

Prior to starting at the Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum, Abate served as the Director of Education for the Queens County Farm Museum in New York City. She created programming and public events focused on sustainable farming, the environment, and local history, serving children, families and adults in the New York City region. Under her leadership, Queens Farm welcomed more than 30,000 students annually for field trips and summer camp, and Abate created a vibrant adult education series to widen the audience served. “Queens Farm provided an incredible outdoor classroom. It fueled my passion for working with organizations that interweave history, culture, wellness and foster a love for the environment,” Abate said. “I am thrilled to be bringing the valuable experiences I gained from this celebrated NYC landmark to the Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum.”

Abate is a 2004 graduate of Amherst College and earned her Master’s in Social Work from Columbia University. She is an educator and non-profit leader with experience growing and building teams, developing engaging educational programs for all ages, and partnering with organizations and like-minded constituents. She has worked with youth and adults across age groups and in settings ranging from schools to corporate board rooms. She will split her time between Brooklyn and Livingston Manor, as part of a larger effort to expand the Center’s reach and forge new relationships with supporting partners and funders.

An Executive Director had not been in place at the Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum since 2020. “This is a big step for the Center,” said Board President Anthony J. Magardino. “We remain committed more than ever to the original role of preserving the history of the sport, and its regional connection through our exhibits and extensive archive. Having Ali’s expertise points to what we see as areas for major growth to bring CFFCM into a new era and create relevance for future generations.”

“I see CFFCM as a gathering place for the entire fly fishing community as well as local residents and visitors to the region who wish to learn about angling and enjoy the natural beauty of this space,” Abate said. “While exploring the winding nature trails, the museum, and unique features of this site, I see enormous potential for ways we can continue to enrich this community, provide unique educational experiences and preserve the historic legacy and contemporary impact of fly fishing in American culture.”