Honoring Lani Waller

Celebrating the Legacy of Lani Waller: Founding Director and Champion of Steelhead Conservation 

A group of seven people and one dog posing outdoors near a river, with a forest in the background.
Two men are in a river with rocky banks, holding a large fish, possibly a rainbow trout, during daytime.

As we reflect on the passing of Lani Waller, it is impossible not to feel a deep sense of gratitude for the profound impact he had on the fly-fishing community and conservation efforts worldwide. Lani has left us a legacy that will inspire and guide us, especially when it comes to preserving the Babine River watershed and its iconic steelhead.

Lani’s contributions went far beyond the sport of fly fishing. His work with the Silver Hilton Lodge and his significant role as a Founding Director of the Babine River Foundation ensured that the Babine and its ecosystems would receive the recognition and protection they deserve. For decades, Lani was not just an angler—he was a river steward, working tirelessly to safeguard its future for generations of anglers and conservationists alike.

A man smiling and wearing sunglasses, a beige cap, and an orange jacket, holding a fish by the riverbank with rocks and trees in the background.
Two men fishing from a rocky riverbank, one of them holding a large fish, both smiling.

His expertise, born from over forty-five years of dedication to pursuing trout and steelhead, cemented his place as one of the foremost authorities on British Columbia’s trophy steelhead. From his groundbreaking video series on steelhead fishing to his conservation advocacy, Lani became a beacon of knowledge and passion, uniting anglers, conservationists, and industry leaders in the shared mission of protecting wild steelhead and their habitats.

Group of five men in outdoor hiking gear, standing together with arms around each other, smiling, in front of a wooden sign surrounded by trees.
Two men wearing outdoor gear and hats, standing in a river or stream, holding a large fish in front of them, with a forested background.

Lani’s influence extended well beyond the waters he cherished. Through his writing, films, and presentations, he touched the hearts of anglers around the globe, teaching not only the techniques of fly fishing but also the importance of preserving the natural world. His leadership and involvement with organizations such as the North Coast Steelhead Alliance, the Wild Steelhead Campaign, and Friends of Wild Salmon exemplified his lifelong dedication to conservation.

A woman in dark clothing and a beige cap stands over a large fish lying on the ground, possibly having caught it. The image is stylized with watercolor effects.

Lani’s spirit lives on in the waters he protected. His legacy is woven into the fabric of these watersheds and the hearts of all who had the privilege of learning from him. 

Even in his role at the Silver Hilton Lodge, Lani’s vision was always about more than just the experience of fishing—it was about connecting people to the rivers and fish that defined his life’s work. His efforts ensured that the Babine River would remain a sanctuary, not only for steelhead but also for those seeking to understand and protect the fragile balance of its ecosystem.

With deep appreciation for all that Lani gave to us and to the rivers he loved.