From Appalachian Streams to Alaskan Glory: We Guide the Ancient Waters

I started fishing the beautiful creeks of the Blue ridge Mountains near Boone North Carolina in 2013. My heart was captured by these crystal clear flows of clean water and quiet embrace of the thick riparian zone and towering trees. The start of my journey into guiding people’s outdoor experiences are rooted in these ancient mountains and it will always be my great pleasure to share the wonders of this place that I call my home. My hunger to be a better fisherman and guide lead me to the Tail waters of Watauga and South Holston Lakes in 2015. A Technical trout fishery that has always been highly populated by experienced guides with clients rather than new comers in their own boats. In 2016 I learned to row and by 2018 I was a float guide for High Country Guide service, who I still work with closely. 2026 is my 7th year as a full time professional guide, and 10th year since my first wade trip for Steve at Watauga River Anglers, who I owe my first chance at my dream career.

During the COVID boom I ran 200 trips a year from 2020 until, 2022 when I was invited last minute to be a guide/camp cook on remote excursions up to 100 miles through the remote wilds of south west Alaska. Completing that season left me wanting more of the fishery, the Yupik culture and landscape. This will be my 5th season and I plan to pursue the Alaska opportunity for years to come. I spend my free time in the winters guiding the occasional client, catching redfish on the coast of the Carolinas and spending quality time with my family, fellow guides/friends and my fondest rivals, the large brown trout and musky of the NC, VA and TN borderlands.