Filson: The lore and legacy of an American fishing brand

Feb 6

Filson, USA was founded in 1897 by Mr Clinton C. Filson as an outdoor apparel and accessories manufacturer focussed on craftsmanship, quality and durability. Based in Seattle, Washington, Filson became well-known outfitting the prospectors during the Klondike Gold Rush..

A brief history of the Klondike Alaska Gold Rush

*Image credit: UAF Archives, Alaska State Library, and Library of Congress*

The ‘Klondike Rush’ officially began in 1897 with the discovery of gold in the region one year prior. Sitting in the Yukon Territory of Canada, the news of gold in Klondike caused a wave of gold prospectors to migrate to the region in the hope of literally ‘striking gold’. People came from all over the US, particularly from cities such as Seattle, San Francisco, and Boston. The journey itself was known to be dangerous and demanding, testing prospectors with tough terrain, difficult weather, and challenging logistics. While some did get lucky, many left the area with empty pockets. What was left though was an intriguing legacy of ‘Boom towns’, a new national idea and spirit of the pursuit of wealth, and a physical network of roads and railways that still exist to this day.

Filson Materials & Timeless Designs

Filson’s signature fabrics include heritage materials such as tin cloth and twill. These have been made popular over centuries because of their warmth and resilience against the harshest elements. Combined with high-quality manufacturing, and activity-specific designs, Filson products have been used by generations of lumberjacks and miners - and more recently, recreational hunters and anglers.

Functional Fishing Gear

Filson’s heritage in providing high-quality clothing and accessories for fishermen goes back decades. Renowned for their functional design and protective qualities against the elements, few fishermen would argue with those who choose Filson as their top gear provider. Conducive to long days out in the elements, Filson’s fishing collection has a timeless aesthetic, as well as great features designed with thought to make your fishing experience as traditional and relaxing as possible.