My Story

I I grew up fishing farm ponds in Iowa, moved on to the rivers of the American west, then ended up in Minnesota, first enamored by the trout of the Driftless Area, then the most sporting warm water fish of all, the smallmouth bass. I’ve lived on the Upper Mississippi River for twelve years, and have come to intimately know this incredible fishery. From my backyard I’m able to discern water clarity, flows, hatches, and the general, daily demeanor of the “Father of Waters.” I’m a writer in addition to a fly-fishing guide, a a graduate of the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, and an occasional college professor, and thus bring a creative, angler-focused approach to the boat. Whatever your goals— numbers, 20+ inchers, a fun day on the river with your son or daughter—I’ll do all that I can (and more) to make your trip a memorable one. I’m a fully insured, CPR/First Aid Certified Guide—a safe day on the water is paramount. Reach out now to schedule a trip on America’s finest smallmouth river. From Brainerd to Minneapolis, (and some secret tributaries), I’ll work with you to plan a trip you’ll remember forever.