We’re honored to share that The Silent Spotter has been awarded Audience Choice — Best Film at the 2025 International Fly Fishing Film Festival (IF4). This recognition is meaningful for many reasons, but above all because it comes directly from viewers. Audiences around the world showed up, watched the film, and cast their votes, and we’re grateful for every single person who took the time to support this story.
A Story Built on Connection
At the heart of The Silent Spotter is Tommy Batun, a deaf and mute fly-fishing guide from Xcalak, Mexico, whose connection to the water and the world around him is unlike anything we’ve encountered. Tommy trusted us with his life story—his home, his work, his rhythm on the flats—and the film would not exist without that connection. His openness shaped every frame, and we’re grateful for the chance to help share his legacy with a wider audience.
A Community Effort
A special thank-you goes to Jesse Colten and the XFlats team for their collaboration and support throughout the process. Jesse’s narration brought depth and clarity to the story, grounding it in place and lived experience.
We also want to recognize the many partners, sponsors and creative collaborators who contributed to this film. From guides in the field to editors, producers, and supporters behind the scenes, this project required a tremendous amount of teamwork. The film is stronger because of the people who believed in it, helped shape it, and stood behind it.
Gratitude for the Audience
Audience Choice awards carry a unique weight because they come from the community that engages most directly with the film. Seeing viewers respond so strongly to Tommy’s story, and vote in support of sharing his work and his life, is a meaningful affirmation of why we do what we do. Thank you to everyone who attended screenings, shared the film with friends, and voted during the IF4 tour.
Where to Watch the Film
Now that the festival tour has concluded, The Silent Spotter is available to watch through Off the Grid Studios in several formats. You can find:
Whether you’re discovering the film for the first time or revisiting Tommy’s story, we hope it resonates with you the way it did with audiences around the world.
Looking Ahead
The Silent Spotter has been a meaningful journey for our team, and we’re inspired by the connection viewers have made with Tommy and the world he inhabits. We’re grateful for the recognition from IF4 and even more grateful for the community that continues to support our work.
Thank you for being part of this story.
