Growing up in Southern Michigan, I was fortunate to live next to 2 lakes and a Trout stream. Every day after school you could find me fishing. Whether I was wading for Brown Trout, or exploring new gravel pits for Bass, I was hooked on fishing from that young age. I'd read Field and Stream and dream of the day that I too, could live out the adventures I had read about.
At the age of 12 I started my own guide service, taking neighborhood kids Bass & Trout fishing! In my twenties I began river fishing for Steelhead and Salmon. I also took up fly fishing and learned to tie my own flies. I pulled many all nighters driving to and from different rivers in and around Michigan. I was happy as long as I was on the river! I didn't care if I was catching 8 inch Rainbows, bright Steelhead, Redhorse Suckers, Walleye, or Carp. I was hooked on river fishing and I still am to this day.
Also around this time began my love affair with Canadian fishing. One fly-in trip and I was spoiled for life!
Trophy Northern Pike and Walleye were, and are, a highly sought after quarry. I was driven to fish almost to the point of fanatical! Many of my friends called me crazy, I mean, how could I spend all day in 30 degree weather, waist deep in a rushing river, fishing?
Today I still enjoy fishing and hunting with my same buddies from 15 years ago. Being cut from the same cloth, we've developed our own strategies over the years. There are about 4 of us that make up our (somewhat motley) fishing crew. We've learned a lot, together and have accumulated countless stories and traditions.
I've been married for 11 years and have 2 children, who both love to fish. I enjoy sharing my experiences with them and teaching them about the outdoors, hunting, and fishing. While my wife does not share my love for fishing, she has no problems riding along in the boat on a beautiful sunny day!
In my spare time, I also enjoy playing drums, singing, and playing piano in my band The Styrofoam Buzzards.
