Meet Our Staff

 

Tucker Ladd - Owner

Tucker Ladd was born and raised in Colorado. For Tucker, fly fishing is more than just a hobby. It’s a lifestyle that keeps him close to nature and the natural world. Tucker fly fishes for the camaraderie it brings with friends and family. Fly fishing has become an activity that brings peace and relaxation to his life, and is something the he tries to share with every person he meets.

In addition to owning Trout’s Fly Fishing, Tucker is also on the Board of Directors for the American Fly Fishing Trade Association. 

“It is a great honor to join the AFFTA board,” said Ladd.  “I have always been a firm believer in the mission and work that AFFTA engages in, and I look forward to contributing on all levels."


Rick Mikesell

Rick Mikesell began working at Trout’s Fly Fishing in June of 2010.  If you have a question about equipment, flies or gear – regardless of how technical – Rick will have an answer and most likely a pointed opinion.  In addition to fishing for trout in the higher elevations of Colorado, Rick is often found chasing a wide range of species in Colorado including pike, muskie, bass and carp. 

“Fishing is a constant challenge," said Rick. "On the water, all of the complications and nuisances of life disappear and all that is left is a very real connection with the grandeur and complexity of the natural world - it is never boring or the same. Nature always has a new set of variables and new challenges to offer.”


Cody Hoeckelberg

Cody Hoeckelberg was born and raised in Colorado and has a passion and excitement for fly fishing that is contagious.  Fishing has become a part of his nature whether he is studying Google Earth for new bodies of water to explore or thinking about a new fly pattern design.

“There are so many opportunities in the world of fly-fishing and it can take you anywhere in the world and even pay your bills,” said Cody.  “I have met some of my best friends through fly fishing and have unforgettable memories on some of my crazy excursions to fishing destinations.”

Cody has fished extensively in Colorado and also had chances to explore Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Arizona, Kansas, Nebraska, Michigan, Indiana, Louisiana, and most recently British Columbia. Cody is also on the Board of Directors of the Denver Chapter of Trout Unlimited and volunteers for Casting for Recovery.

"I coordinate the river helpers for Casting For Recovery, which is a non-profit organization that provides a free weekend long retreat to  women who are victims and survivors of Breast Cancer,” said Cody. “Fourteen ladies show up on the North Fork of the South Platte outside of Bailey, CO for a weekend of spiritual gatherings, healing sessions, and the chance to bond and hear about each other’s battles against cancer. I volunteer my time by finding 14 professional and compassionate fly-fishing guides that I pair up with the ladies for their fishing day, which takes place on the final day of the retreat."


Will Rice - Director of Marketing

Will Rice is the Director of Marketing at Trout's Fly Fishing.  He is also a freelance journalist and a contributing editor for the Drake Magazine. He's written for the Denver Post, Salt Water Fly Fishing, Flyfish Journal, Fly Rod & Reel and he is a regular contributor to Angling Trade Magazine. Prior to working at Trout's, Will completed a 10+ year tour at a Fortune 500 technology company with a focus on sales, marketing and business development. 

Will grew up fishing for small mouth and large mouth bass in upstate NY but has lived in Colorado for the past 15 years. He is on the Board of Directors at Denver Trout Unlimited and is passionately involved in restoration efforts to improve his home water - the Denver South Platte River. In addition to his own writing, Will has been included in the New York Times as well as 50 More Places to Fly Fish Before you Die (by Chris Santella). When not in the shop or out on the river, he can usually be found enjoying the cityscape or nearby mountains with his wife Sara and their dog Brooker.


   
 
   
 
   
 
   

 

Colorado Fly Fishing Enthusiasts

Tucker Ladd, Rick Mikesell, Cody Hoeckelberg, Michael Gracie, and shop dog Houser make up the Trout's fly fishing team of experts and enthusiasts. They will help you find the best equipment to suit your fly fishing experience, guide you to the best fly fishing destinations in Colorado and beyond and even guide you on a fly fishing excursion.