A Strong Cast

Over the years, Orvis has become the last word on outdoor lifestyle. The company has nurtured otherwise fading practices, most notably fly fishing and sporting clays, that could have gone extinct years ago. Perkins has built upon his father Leigh's first love to make these pastimes accessible to more men than ever before. "Our style may be classic, but Orvis is very innovative when it comes to the components in our products," Perkins says. Similarly, in addition to its classic bamboo rods, the outfitter also designs the latest high-tech casting tools from carbon fiber.

The Orvis sporting tradition is fueled by the oldest mail-order business in the country, with more than 55 million catalogs sent out annually. A huge selection of outdoor products and accessories is available via catalog, as well as online or in the massive flagship store in Manchester, Vermont. In addition to sporting gear, Orvis offers clothing, luggage, jewelry, books and CDs.