Dad was inspired to fly fish by gramps and before I was a teen Dad got me started in fly fishing and fly tying. Even though I continue to fish a variety of ways the fly fishing has been the most rewarding. The challenge and sense of wonderment consumes my thoughts and much of my life. I can't tell you how many times I've laid awake at night pondering, planning, wishing, designing, even agonizing over all aspects of the sport because the next day was too long of a wait. I'm darn lucky to have good friends that are just as crazy about it as I am.

It was a natural progression for me to start a fly fishing business. I could teach what I've learned about fly fishing over the last few decades and pay some bills at the same time. My knowledge and services continue to grow along with my desire to learn. I found that I enjoy teaching others as much as I love being a student of the sport.

There's a feeling of contentment that comes from fishing familiar water and having a good idea of how the day will unfold. Even then there will always be something new that presents itself. It's the unknown that drives me and fuels my dreams. There's nothing better than developing new fishing gear, new fishing techniques and new ideas. Equally as exciting is exploring new water and the challenge of different species. The more variety the better. Combine all this and I'm on top of the world.

•I'm a member of several conservation clubs, some of which I have served on the board.

•Have been a member of the American Casting Association and I've competed at the national level and done surprisingly well thanks to friends and competitors. You'll find the people of the ACA are wonderful to be around and are most generous and supportive even when your in direct competition with them.

•Have been teaching a wide variety of casting to people of all levels for over two decades.

•Have been teaching fly tying and fly fishing classes for over two decades.

•Guided for stream trout for over a decade since that is the main fishery where I live.

•Have written a fly fishing blog for the Minneapolis Star Tribune in the past.

•Did commercial fly tying for the local shops for 15 years.

•Have been building rods for decades.

•Have been doing rod repairs for the local shops for a decade or two.

•Taught and demonstrated at numerous sports shows over the years to promote the sport.