Meet Our Team
With decades of combined experience on the rivers of the Vail Valley, our guides are passionate about creating unforgettable fly fishing experiences for anglers of every skill level. Whether you're casting a fly for the very first time or chasing the trout of a lifetime, our team is dedicated to making your day on the water one you'll never forget.
Matt Fair
Born and raised in Wisconsin, I grew up casting lines and honing my angling skills from a young age. In 2018, I relocated to the stunning Vail Valley, where I discovered the art of fly fishing.
What began as a new adventure quickly transformed into a lifelong passion. Today, I have the privilege of sharing Colorado's incredible fisheries with guests from around the world while helping create unforgettable days on the water.
Mike Crosby
Growing up in the Vail Valley, these rivers weren't just nearby—they were my backyard. Exploring them wasn't an occasional adventure; it was simply part of everyday life. After countless days on the water, these fisheries still challenge, surprise, and reward me every time I step into the river.
Fly fishing has become far more than a hobby—it's a genuine passion. Whether you're making your very first cast or returning for another unforgettable day, I truly enjoy helping guests experience these rivers through the knowledge I've gained from a lifetime spent fishing them.
Mike Geisler
My dad had a pontoon boat with a crib on it. He would put me and my two sisters in it while he fished. My sisters would feed me worms, but I was really checking to make sure the bait was fresh. He once caught a huge northern pike with three screaming kids in the boat. Without a net, he wrestled that beast into the boat, and everybody in town took pictures of him.
When I was ten, I sold enough fresh worms to buy my first fishing pole—a fly rod because I thought it looked neat, and I still have that rod. Once, on summer vacation, my friend caught a big musky on a bobber with a worm, and when he first saw the fish, he threw me the rod.
When I was older, I tied a diamond ring on the end of a fishing pole and had the catch of a lifetime—my beautiful wife, a skilled angler herself. I am a hardworking guide who loves his job and can't wait to hear your stories or make some together.
Nathan Simmonds
I grew up fishing the mountain lakes of the Appalachians with my dad. It was there I learned that waking up early to fish is always a worthwhile endeavor.
After graduating from the University of Georgia, I packed the truck, loaded my dog, and drove west to the Rocky Mountains. It was here I met my wife, Lindsey. Over the past eighteen years we have traveled, explored, and fished together, and now our son Fisher joins us on those adventures.
I've been fortunate enough to fish waters from Bermuda to Hawaii—and many incredible places in between. Today, I'm proud to share my passion for fly fishing as part of the outstanding team at Gore Creek Fly Fisherman.
Seth Johnson
Since moving to Colorado as a young child, the outdoors have always been where I feel most at home. After relocating to Avon in 2008, I discovered fly fishing and quickly became hooked by the challenge, precision, and beauty of the sport.
Today I have the opportunity to spend my days guiding guests on some of Colorado's finest trout streams. Whether you're brand new to fly fishing or have years of experience, I look forward to helping you create an unforgettable day on the water.
Jake Searer
Originally from Pennsylvania, I grew up chasing wild brook trout before making my way west to Colorado. After settling in the Vail Valley, I quickly developed a passion for the Eagle River and the incredible fisheries that surround it.
When I'm not guiding on the river, you'll often find me guiding upland bird hunts or teaching skiing during the winter. I enjoy sharing my passion for the outdoors and helping every guest enjoy an exceptional day on the water.
Brendon Glenwright
I grew up fishing Lake Ontario before discovering fly fishing on Irondequoit Creek. After moving to Colorado, I quickly fell in love with the Gore Creek and Eagle River fisheries.
Sharing these beautiful rivers with guests has become one of the most rewarding parts of my life. Whether you're learning the basics or looking to improve your skills, my goal is to help you enjoy every minute on the water while creating memories that last long after the trip ends.
Rachel Schwindt
Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, I've spent more than 20 years fishing rivers, lakes, and coastlines throughout the United States, Mexico, and Central America. After several years as an elementary school teacher, I moved to the Vail Valley in 2020 and have been guiding professionally for the past six years. My teaching background has shaped the way I guide, with a focus on patience, encouragement, and helping every angler succeed. Whether you're picking up a fly rod for the first time, introducing your child to the sport, or looking to refine your skills, I'll tailor the day to your goals. My goal is simple: create a fun, memorable day on the water while helping you build confidence and enjoy everything Colorado fly fishing has to offer.
Tim McCabe
Raised in the Midwest and moved to Colorado in 1982. Became preoccupied with flyfishing after a trip to Montana in the late 90s. I enjoyed teaching my son and daughter how to fly fish as they were growing up. Float trips on the Colorado River and Eagle River are what I find most gratifying. I try and spend a significant time each summer, traveling to different parts of Colorado, Montana, Oregon, and Idaho. I also like fishing in the Bahamas in Florida over the winters.
Levi Klein
A Vail Valley local since 1975, I've spent countless days exploring Colorado's rivers and reservoirs. After years of conventional fishing, I discovered fly fishing and quickly fell in love with the challenge, artistry, and connection it creates with the water.
Today, nothing is more rewarding than helping guests experience the incredible trout fishing our valley has to offer. Whether it's your first trout on a fly or your hundredth, I look forward to sharing a memorable day on the river.
Mark Wechsler
Mark has been fly fishing the Vail Valley for more than two decades after relocating to Colorado in the mid-1990s. His passion for trout fishing and extensive local knowledge allow him to tailor each trip to every guest's experience level.
Whether you're looking to learn the fundamentals or refine advanced techniques, Mark enjoys sharing his experience while introducing anglers to some of Colorado's most productive and scenic waters.
David Phillips
Originally from Michigan, I have spent the last two decades exploring the rivers of the Vail Valley and pursuing trout throughout Colorado. Every season offers new challenges, and I enjoy sharing what I've learned with anglers of every skill level.
Whether you're picking up a fly rod for the first time or hoping to refine your presentation, my goal is simple: help you have a fun, relaxed, and memorable day on the water.
Dan Werney
Growing up outside New York City, I never imagined that fly fishing would become such an important part of my life. After a career in Manhattan, I moved west to Colorado and found a passion that continues to grow every year.
Today I enjoy helping guests experience the beauty of Colorado's rivers while building confidence, learning new skills, and creating memories that last long after the trip is over.
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