Trouts Fly Fishing is proud to employ some of the finest professional fly fishing guides in the country. From the urban Denver South Platte, to the iconic Colorado River, our guides are waiting for the opportunity to curate a fly fishing experience that you will not soon forget. Whether float or wade, private or public, 1 person or 20, Trouts Fly Fishing pride ourselves on the ability to meet our customer's needs, and go the extra yard.
Where are you from?
Wenatchee, Washington
When did you start fly fishing / how long have you been fly fishing?
I started my freshman year in high school and caught my first fish on a fly between two a day football practices, soaking my legs in the Wenatchee River. So that brings me to fly fishing for 32 years.
Why do you love being a fly fishing guide?
I love teaching people the art, science, technical and strategic aspects fo the sport. To me, I am always fishing just sometimes vicariously through my clients.
Favorite species to target?
While I love all that trout have to offer, right now Tarpon are what I froth about.
Favorite gear to use:
For trout, I love the Scott Radian and Flex rods in 905/4 versions. Then add the new Scott Sector in a 6wt and then a 9ft 12 weight for Tarpon and I am set. Nautilus Silver King for the Tarpon rigs and a Ross Gunnison for the trout rigs.
Hobbies:
I am an avid snowboarder, backcountry snowboarder, mountain biker and surfer whenever possible.
Random Fact:
I keep my house and boat tidy and clean, probably from living in a van as a young 20 plus-year-old. Everything has its place. The guys around the shop refer to me as either the "Professor" or "Major Pain" which completely depends on them.
Where are you from?
I’m originally from Mukilteo Washington and moved to Colorado back in 1991.
When did you start fly fishing / how long have you been fly fishing?
I first started fly fishing in the early nineties. The first few years I had no idea what I was doing. In 95 I started fishing with some buddies that really helped me advance my skills.
Why do you love being a fly fishing guide?
I love being a fly fishing guide. My office has awesome views, and the people I take out are there to have a good time. I like being the instructor on trips, where I get to see the development of there skills throughout the day. I like being the fish spotter and netter. I like creating experiences and memories that keep people coming back year after year. And I like being responsible for creating a passion for fishing that some people didn’t have before we started our day.
Favorite species to target?
I love all fish as long as they tug. Probably my favorite species is a tarpon. They're big, strong, love to jump, and are a challenge to keep on the line.
Favorite gear to use:
I have a few favorite pieces of gear I use daily. My Simms G3 waders and boots keep me comfortable hiking the rivers in all season. In my opinion, Simms makes the best outerwear. Besides the waders and boots, my raincoat, base layers, cold-weather coats all perform great and take the abuse of being used on a regular basis all year long. Another favorite gear item is my Costa Whitetip polarized sunglasses. They fit comfortably and help me spot those tough to see fish. Lastly, my 9’ 5wt Winston’s. They cast great, whether I’m turning over a heavy nymph rig or presenting a tiny dry to a sipping fish. They make my job easier.
Hobbies:
When I’m not fishing I’m playing around at home with my boys. They’re at the age where we have fun doing anything and everything. They're also still at the age they think dad’s cool and funny. I hope that continues for years to come.
Random Fact:
Lastly, I found some species of sharks are a ton of fun to target. I’m freaked out by sharks while playing in the water but being in a boat and casting at them I’m not scared of them at all. The movie Jaws scared me as a kid.
Where are you from?
Colorado Springs, CO
When did you start fly fishing / how long have you been fly fishing?
I started fishing since I could walk but a fly rod came into play around age 9. I started guiding for Todd Clough aka “ The Guide Father” at 15.
Why do you love being a fly fishing guide?
To me, it will be forever enjoyable trying to solve the “What are they eating,” bug puzzle and transferring it to fly tying. I love sharing that experience with others regardless of their experience level.
Favorite species to target?
Pike. Or the elusive female who loves fishing as much as I do.
Favorite gear to use:
Winston. Simms. Hands down. Doesn’t matter model or price. You're getting the best.
Hobbies:
Id like to think I’m an above-average driving range golfer
Random Fact:
I watch the God Father part 1 and 2 probably 3 times a week and have read every book about the Italian mafia every written. I just find it absolutely fascinating.
Where are you from?
I'm a Colorado native and I've lived here exploring the Rockies my whole life. I grew up in Denver and never found any reason to leave. While the ocean calls my name occasionally, the mountains own my heart.
When did you start fly fishing / how long have you been fly fishing?
I've been fly fishing and tying flies ever since getting my first fly rod for my 11th birthday. That's 30 years and counting. My dad hooked me on the sport when he took me on a horse pack trip into some high mountain lakes in northwest Colorado when I was 13. I obviously enjoyed it because I asked for the same trip for my birthday present for the next three years in a row.
Why do you love being a fly fishing guide?
I love being a fishing guide for a number of reasons. Not only do I get to help people make memories and experience my favorite pastime, but I also get to work in the best office in the world! Seeing the joy and excitement on peoples faces when they hook a fish makes me smile every time.
Favorite species to target?
I have a special kind of affection for high country cutthroat trout. They're absolutely gorgeous fish and they live in some of the most beautiful places on Earth. That said, I love catching pretty much anything that swims in fresh or saltwater, including mahi-mahi, bonefish, northern pike, tiger muskie, and more.
Favorite gear to use:
I've got a great appreciation for high quality, high-performance gear. My favorite waders are the Simms G3's. They're light, comfortable, and durable. I pair them up with the Simms G3 Guide Boot with rubber soles and I like to install a set of the Simms Alumabite star cleats for the best traction in slippery rivers. My favorite trout rod is the Orvis Helios 3. I like the H3D in a 9' 5-weight for nymph fishing and the H3F in a 8"6" 4-weight is a perfect dry fly rod in my opinion. These rods are light, incredibly accurate, and have a great feel. I pair these up with Orvis Mirage LT reels. They've got a smooth sealed drag that's virtually maintenance-free, and have a great look, feel, and sound.
Hobbies:
I've got lots of hobbies. Most of them revolve around fishing. I like hiking (usually to get to a fishing spot), traveling (preferably to good fishing destinations), photography (mostly of fishing, nature, and wildlife), and ice fishing. I'm also a bit of a foodie and beer aficionado, so I like exploring local breweries and restaurants.
Random Fact:
As soon as my parents would let me out of the house without supervision, I spent many days riding my bike 20 miles to the nearest trout water just to cast flies at rising trout for a few hours.
Where are you from?
Amarillo, Texas
When did you start fly fishing / how long have you been fly fishing?
I have been fly fishing for 15 years.
Why do you love being a fly fishing guide?
I love being a fly fishing guide because it provides the opportunity to show others that it's about a lot more than just fishing. It is about allowing yourself to melt away from the modern-day struggles, exploring and enjoying nature, appreciation, and conservation of nature and resources, as well as sharing these pure experiences with friends, loved ones and most importantly future generations.
Favorite species to target?
Brown, Brook and Cutthroat trout.
Favorite gear to use:
Scott Flex 4 Piece 9ft 5wt Rod, Ross Evolution LTX Reel, Simms G3 Waders, Fishpond Thunderhead Waist Pack
Hobbies:
Fly fishing, skiing, mountain biking, hiking, photography, traveling.
Random fact:
On multiple occasions, I have successfully hooked and landed two fish at the same time on hopper dropper rigs. On another trip, I had hooked a very small brown trout and while I was preparing to net it, another larger brown trout came up from the depths and ate the smaller fish. The larger brown trout held onto the smaller fish all the way to the net and I successfully landed both. Once both fish were in the net I realized the larger trout was never actually hooked, just hanging onto his meal for dear life.
Where are you from?
I grew up in Saginaw, MI and Santa Fe, NM.
When did you start fly fishing / how long have you been fly fishing?
I was introduced to fly fishing at a very young age but didn't become obsessed with it until I moved to Colorado. I've been seriously fly fishing for about 18 years.
Why do you love being a fly fishing guide?
I love the teaching aspect of guiding and passing on something I absolutely love to hopefully change someone's life or just give them a bit of joy and relaxation.
Favorite species to target?
I like catching any fish that wiggles...but favorite species are trout, probably because of where I catch them.
Favorite gear to use:
My favorite setup for the day includes my Sage Accel 9' 5w that's great for throwing dries or nymphing. I prefer a sling pack these days, Simms has been my go-to as of late. I only like waders when it's cold, otherwise, you will see me wet wading with my trusty Simms wading socks. Fishpond net is definitely my preference for scooping up the fish.
Hobbies:
When I'm not fishing I enjoy skiing, biking, traveling, camping; and generally just exploring this giant rock we live on however and whenever I can.
Random fact:
I have played hockey most of my life and was pretty decent back in the day. I was fortunate enough to skate with Gordie Howe aka "Mr. Hockey" when I was a youngster.
Where are you from?
I am originally from New Jersey, but I have lived in 8 states coast to coast.
When did you start fly fishing / how long have you been fly fishing?
About two decades, 15 years seriously... I have have been fishing my whole life, however.
Why do you love being a fly fishing guide?
I love to guide people simply because I love to watch people catch fish. Anyone who has gone out with me can attest to how excitable I am in that respect.
Favorite species to target?
At this point in my fishing career, I probably fish for trout and steelhead, with fly tackle, 99% of the time. However, I have throughout my life fished for many species.
Favorite gear to use:
Rods: I almost exclusively use Sage rods.
Reels: Nautilus or Sage.
Waders: Simms.
Hobbies:
Surfing, Snowboarding, mtn bikes, road bikes, traveling, music....
Random fact:
I hold the world record (in my mind, at least) for the size of fish caught in Clear Creek; 26". I have been to every state, besides AK and HI, at least twice; most dozens of times.
Where are you from?
Killington, Vermont
When did you start fly fishing / how long have you been fly fishing?
I have been fly fishing for a long long time. I have fished my whole life. I was a Captain on a longline fishing boat for over 25 years. I have fished the whole East Coast at one time or another from the Gulf of Mexico to South of Greenland catching swordfish and tuna.
Why do you love being a fly fishing guide?
I enjoy guiding to share my passion for the water and teaching my clients different techniques and methods which are always changing. It is different every day and you need to adapt.
Hobbies:
I spend over 250 plus days a year guiding and when I get a rare day off I go fishing with my dogs. When not fishing or walking I am tying over 5000 flies a year.
Random fact:
I am the only left-handed rower at Trouts.
Where are you from?
I grew up outside of Boone, North Carolina right in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. When did you start fly fishing / how long have you been fly fishing?
When did you start fly fishing / how long have you been fly fishing?
I grew up bass and trout fishing all over the Blue Ridge, but about 9 years ago I discovered the fly rod. I have not looked back since, dedicating over 300 days on the water each year. Whether a short solo session on a wild creek, or hiking miles of meadows on the middle fork of the South Platte, I have devoted many hours to my passion.
Why do you love being a fly fishing guide?
Being able to share my passion and knowledge for the sport of fly fishing with others does not feel like work to me. I find so much pride in being a teacher of not only the ways of the river I am guiding, but in the memories and smiles created on the river that will last a lifetime, that's why I guide.
Favorite species to target?
I love to target aggressive brown trout, smallmouth bass and am currently learning the ways of the northern pike.
Favorite gear to use:
Let's start with my outerwear because being a fishing guide means that you can deal with all 4 seasons in one day.
- Simms G3 Waders
- Simms Boa Boots
- Simms Bugstopper
- Simms G3 wading jacket
- Fishpond Gunnison guide hip pack
- Fishpond El Hefe mid-length net
I am a huge advocate of Simms fishing products.I will not leave home without my Simms G3 waders first and foremost. These waders are built for the abuse I demand. Putting up with crawling through rough canyons at night throwing streamers to meandering through thistle fields hunting for trouts.
Let's talk about the Boa system, these boots are lightweight and easy to take on and off. During the winter months, I like to minimize the amount of work that I do with my hands and being able to pull the BOA crank and the boots immediately loosen with ease. Keeping frozen laces a distant memory
As far as my Rod selection, I am a huge fan of Scott radian 9” 5wt paired with Ross Evolution LTX. This rod does it all for our rivers here in CO.
Hobbies:
I just about love everything outdoors. I would have to say fly fishing is my main passion but I also enjoy Climbing, Backpacking long distances, MTB, ATV and am really wanting to get into waterfowl hunting and running dogs!
Random fact:
I really enjoy spicy salsa dancing in Cabo, Mexico.
Where are you from?
I grew up in Kansas City.
When did you start fly fishing / how long have you been fly fishing?
I’ve been fly fishing since I was a little kid and really started getting into it after college about 10 years ago.
Why do you love being a fly fishing guide?
I just love fly fishing in general and being a guide brings a new element to it. Seeing the smile on people’s faces when they hook into a fish, whether it’s their 1st or 1,000th, never gets old. I also just like getting to meet new people and share my passion with them.
Favorite species to target?
Trout, obviously
Favorite gear to use:
No matter what anyone says, you just can’t beat the versatility and efficiency of a 9 foot 5 weight fly rod in the Rockies. I’m a big fan of the old click draw reels as well and love the sound they make when a big fish zips out your backing.
Hobbies:
Fly fishing and golf
Random fact:
I hate mayonnaise
Where are you from?
Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
When did you start fly fishing / how long have you been fly fishing?
I started fly fishing in 2013 when I was 25.
Why do you love being a fly fishing guide?
I enjoy sharing the passion as well as the knowledge and skills I have accumulated from time spent on the water with others. At the end of the day, when I have inspired someone to pick up fly fishing or maybe have helped them improve their skills or maybe even just made a new fishing buddy... That is why I love working as a professional fly fishing guide.
Favorite species to target?
Anything that will eat my fly!
Favorite gear to use:
I use the Simms way point sling pack with G3 waders and boa boots. Simms never disappoints, the sling pack is a great pack for guiding as well as my personal days spent on the water. It is very spacious allowing me to pack my camera flies and any other accessories I may need for the day. The G3 waders are comfortable durable made for the hard-working angler not to mention stylish. Whether I’m scrambling through a canyon or bush whacking to get to the water they get the job done. As for the boa boots, I was quite skeptical of the lacing system due to the reviews I've heard about with snowboarding boots using the boa system, but after purchasing a pair I was very satisfied with them. I am now actually on my second pair. I believe the thing I like most about the boa is winter fishing and not having to deal with frozen laces and stiff boots. The way the tongue really opens the boot up as well as the effortless tightening system avoiding frozen hands and speeds up my preparation to getting on the water.
Hobbies:
Fishing, hunting, and the outdoors.
I love working as a guide because I get to spend my time outdoors teaching others something that I truly enjoy. I particularly like sharing dry fly fishing with people who've never experienced it. I'm convinced that there is nothing cooler than catching fish on a dry fly! I also like teaching kids.
Where are you from?
Seattle, Washington
When did you start fly fishing / how long have you been fly fishing?
As early as I can remember, my father and grandfather had a fly rod in my hand at a very young age. Things escalated quickly when I moved to Colorado for college ten years ago.
Why do you love being a fly fishing guide?
First and foremost, I love to be outside. The fact that I can make my “office” the outdoors is such a treat and I feel incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to do so. On top of that, I also love teaching people. Fly fishing is something that I’m incredibly passionate about. One of the reasons I love fly fishing is all of the moving pieces. No one cast or drift is the same and with that, there are so many different things that have to go right in order to be successful. When all of the stars align, you get the eat, connect on the hookset, and then land the fish, what a feeling! Having the ability to share that passion with other people, coach them through the processes, and the joy that it can bring them is incredibly rewarding.
Favorite species to target?
Snake River Fine-Spotted Cutthroat
Favorite gear to use:
- Favorite Rod/Reel Combo – G Loomis NRX Four Piece 9’ 6 Weight w/ Abel Super5N or Ross Evolution R (Sink tip line)
- Simms G3 Waders
Hobbies:
Fly Fishing, Snowboarding, Surfing, Hiking, Camping, Seeing Live Music
Random fact:
Currently enrolled in the Avalanche Science Program at Colorado Mountain College Leadville. Very interested in avalanche control work with the use of explosives. Looking to make the “office” outside in the winter as well!
Where are you from?
Boulder, CO.
When did you start fly fishing / how long have you been fly fishing?
I started fly fishing when I was a senior in high school making that 5 years.
Why do you love being a fly fishing guide?
I love being a fly fishing guide because I get to make connections with some really amazing people and when everything comes together, I get to share the special feeling that got me into fly fishing in the first place.
Favorite species to target?
My favorite species to target on the fly is Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout.
Favorite gear to use:
As far as my gear goes, you will see a lot of Simms. Simms makes an amazing product all across the board, but what separates them from everyone else is their waders. My go-to rod is my 10’ 4wt Sage X with a Redington Rise II reel.
Random fact:
One time I caught a mountain whitefish on a size 22 dry fly, the eat was exhilarating!
Where are you from?
Born in Indiana. I grew up between Indiana and Vail, CO.
When did you start fly fishing / how long have you been fly fishing?
I spent some minimal time around fly fishing as a kid as a result of a brother who was obsessed with it to put it mildly. In 2012, I came back into the lifestyle following some heavy life events and a desire to seek out some solace and grounding. Since that time, fly fishing has consumed my life and become a part of my personal and professional life. I can't imagine it any other way.
Why do you love being a fly fishing guide?
I appreciate getting the opportunity to help provide people with a life experience and give them success on the water, however, they define that; catching fish, improving technique, memory making, or whatever their personal goal is!
Favorite species to target?
Locally, Brown Trout on streamers. Otherwise, Pike and Peacock Bass.
Favorite gear to use:
Orvis and Sage Rods with Orvis and Abel Reels. I love the women's Simms G3 waders and associated women's boot.
Hobbies:
Fishing, my son, snowboarding, golf, mountain biking, the usual Colorado suspects.
Random fact:
I used to competitively snowboard. I've slowed down A LOT, but still love to get out and ride in the winter.
Where are you from?
Knoxville, Tennessee
When did you start fly fishing / how long have you been fly fishing?
I’ve been fly fishing for the last 8 years and have been casting for bass about as long as I can remember. I started fishing in college with my grandpa's old Walmart rod. I had a good friend who taught me how to fish the small streams of the smoky mountains. I’ve been hooked ever since I caught my first brook trout.
Why do you love being a fly fishing guide?
I love being a fly fishing guide because I get the opportunity to share my passion for fly fishing with complete strangers. There is nothing better than the feeling of helping someone catch their first trout from the beginning (casting a fly rod) to the end (netting the fish).
Favorite species to target?
My favorite species to target will always be brown trout because of their aggressive nature and ability to get really big. With that being said, you will find me in the fall with a six weight and a box full of streamer in the high country
Favorite gear to use:
My current favorite rod is the Winston Boron III 5 wt with a Redington rise reel. It is the perfect “do it all rod”. As a stiff 5wt it is great for softly landing dry flies as well as hucking streamers off the boat. My wader of choice is, of course, the Simms G4 Pro waders with G3 guide wading boots. Lastly and most importantly you will not see me on the water without my Simms Solar flex sun hoody- no more lathering sunscreen multiple times of the day.
Hobbies:
When I'm not fishing I can be found on single track with my wife (who is a better mountain biker than I) and my chocolate lab- Mr. Gunnison.
Random fact:
I have a line tattooed on my arm just above my elbow. It is exactly 20 inches from the tip of my middle finger. Practically.. It's a form of measurement, so when I pick up a fish I can tell if its more or less than 20 inches.
Where are you from?
I was born in New Hampshire. I grew up on Lake Winnisquam in Laconia, NH.
When did you start fly fishing / how long have you been fly fishing?
I started fishing the lakes and streams around the age of 7 and learned to fly fish from my older brother who has been guiding for over 25 years in Colorado, Montana and the Florida Keys.
Why do you love being a fly fishing guide?
I love spending the summers outside rowing boats and Wade fishing on the beautiful rivers in Colorado.
Favorite species to target?
I really enjoy catching trout all but the fish I enjoy targeting the most are Tarpon when I have the opportunity.
Favorite gear to use:
My favorite gear: Rod - Scott Fly Rods, Reel - Ross reels or Orvis Mirage, Simms waders and boots, and Simms sun and bug protectant hoodies!
Hobbies:
Skiing and snowboarding, fly fishing, hiking biking, and ice hockey are my passions.
Random fact:
I really enjoy traveling and seeing different parts of the world especially with a fly rod in hand seeking different species of fish! I have traveled to Florida and Mexico for bonefish, Tarpon and Permit. Traveled to South Texas and Louisiana for Redfish and Speckled Trout and would love to search for many other saltwater and freshwater fish! Golden Dorado, Roosterfish and Grand Trevalle are just a few on my to-do list!
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Portland Oregon and was back and forth between there and Alaska until I moved to Colorado in 2016.
When did you start fly fishing / how long have you been fly fishing?
I got my first fly rod when I was 9 years old, shortly after my first fly tying kit and I've been at it ever since, so about 25 years now.
Why do you love being a fly fishing guide?
There are several reasons I love to guide. I think guiding is something that has always come very natural to me. I love teaching and helping others. Nobody will ever "master" this sport so I try to always remain a student. There is always something new to learn out on the water. I love seeing folks put it all together and watching them make major strides throughout the day is extremely rewarding to me. I have also always been fascinated with the etomology of the sport. Why do fish eat what they do? When do they want to eat it and how can I tie my flies better to imitate what they want. I find it incredibly rewarding to fool trout on flies I tie myself. I am probably just as consumed with fly tying as I am fly fishing.
Favorite species to target?
This one is tough. I would say it's very close between wild Oregon steelhead and Alaska rainbows on mouse patterns.
Favorite gear to use:
Waders: Simms G3 waders and boots
Rods/Reels: Sage Ignitor outfitted with a Sage Spectrum LT reel
Fly Lines/Tippet: Rio Gold fly lines and Rio Flouroflex tippet.
Pack: Love my Sage Boat Bag
Glasses; Maui Jim Stingrays
Hobbies:
Besides fly fishing and fly tying I am an avid bird hunter. During the winter you can find me with my black lab Cooper chasing pheasants and waterfowl.
Random fact:
I also own a small ranch called "Rocky Mountain Pastures" in eastern Colorado where I raise poultry, pork, lamb and eggs..
