About Joe
I grew up fishing Western Montana rivers.
Most of what I learned came from time on the water — watching how flows change, seeing where fish hold through different seasons, and understanding that small adjustments often make the biggest difference.
My father guided these rivers before I did. From him, I learned that consistency matters more than flash. Show up prepared. Read the water. Make steady adjustments. Take care of the resource.
That approach still shapes how I run trips today.
Based in St. Regis
I operate out of St. Regis, Montana — at the confluence of the Clark Fork River and the St. Regis River.
Being based here keeps me close to daily river conditions. I’m watching flows, clarity, and pressure regularly — not just when clients are in town.
From here, I guide primarily on the Clark Fork, the St. Regis, and the Bitterroot River.
How I Guide
Every day starts with conditions:
What’s the flow doing?
How clear is the water?
What’s changed this week?
There isn’t a preset program. We adjust to what the river is giving us.
If you want instruction, I’ll give you direct, practical feedback. If you’d rather fish without a lot of talk, that’s fine too. The goal is to make the day work for how you like to fish.
We keep it straightforward. We fish hard. We adapt when needed.
Fly Tying & the Shop
I also operate a working fly shop in St. Regis.
It’s where I tie flies, talk river conditions, and stock patterns that make sense for these waters. The flies I use on guided trips are tied and selected specifically for the Clark Fork, St. Regis, and Bitterroot.
The shop keeps me close to the local angling community and the daily rhythm of the river.
The Operation
Most trips are owner-led.
When we run multi-boat trips, I work with a small group of trusted guides who know these rivers and operate to the same standard. They’re anglers I’d fish with myself.
Whether it’s one boat or several, the expectation stays the same: be prepared, fish effectively, and treat the river with respect.
I guide:
Local anglers refining their approach
Visiting anglers planning a Montana trip
Small groups
First-time Western Montana anglers
Experience levels vary. Effort stays consistent.
Who I Work With
