FAQ
Where will we be fishing?
For Trout, I guide the rivers and streams of Northeast Iowa around Decorah, known as the Driftless Region. This unique region spans a lot of Southwest Wisconsin, Southeast Minnesota, Northeast Iowa, and a little bit of Illinois. I do scouting to find the water that will be the most productive for the day, but am open to focusing on a specific stream or river.
For Smallmouth, I guide mostly guide North of Eau Claire on medium sized rivers. These rivers are home to all sorts of species including Walleye, Northern Pike, and Musky. Water levels will play into the equation when selecting the stretch of river for the day.
Why book a guided trip?
A guided trip might be the right decision for a range of people. It can shorten the learning curve of learning to fly fish and fly casting or learning what works in the area.
What fish will we catch?
Most of the Driftless is stocked by the Iowa DNR with rainbows and brown trout fingerlings. A lot of fish will be in the 8-15" range with the occasional fish 20"+.
Typical smallmouth we run into range between 1 lb and 3 lb with fish 4 lb+ not too uncommon.
What equipment do you have for use?
If you don't have your own rod, I have high quality rods and reels from Orvis, Sage, and Winston. For trout, I prefer a 4wt rod on small streams of the Driftless. For smallmouth or streamer fishing, I use 7wt rods and a mix of floating and sinking line. All flies, leaders, and tippet are included.
I have one pair of spare waders available, but most of the season it is warm enough to wet wade.
What time of year do you guide and when is best?
For trout, I guide mainly starting May through late October for the year. In late October and November naturally reproducing fish will start to spawn and it is very important to not disturb the fish on their redds. There is good fishing to be had all season and we can make some Winter trips work. In the Summer, when water temps are hot, I recommend a 4 hour trip. Fishing will slow down dramatically mid day once the sun hits the water.
Smallmouth season starts when water temps get above 55 degrees. I like to target smallmouth from early summer through September. Once water temps cool back off, the fish tend to move down to lakes and deeper water.
Is there a deposit to reserve my spot?
There will be a deposit of 50% of the trip cost to reserve your trip. Refundable up until 72 hours before the trip. After that 50% will be refunded.
Do you keep any of the fish?
I am 100% catch and release.