Guided by Grit is a fly fishing education and mentorship brand built on experience, resilience, and earned confidence. With over 30 years on the water and decades of guiding, I teach practical skills—without ego—for anyone, and everyone, that's tired of ego and elite-ness, who wants to learn, belong or lead in fly fishing on their own terms.
One place to find my work, my teachings, and what I’m working on.....
With my courses and videos you’ll learn exactly what to do first, what matters most, and what to ignore. To start, I’ll walk you through the real basics—gear, knots, rigs, casting, and reading water- then, I'll guide you through your journey of getting you comfortable and capable on the water!
If you’ve ever felt intimidated on the water, you’re not alone. I’ll show you exactly what to do next, how to troubleshoot, and how to keep going—so “beginner” stops feeling like a label and starts feeling like a season.
This isn’t theory. You’ll learn exactly what to practice, where fish actually live, and how to fix the common beginner problems—wind, tangles, drag, missed takes—without getting frustrated and quitting early.
Inside the GBG Fly-Fishing for Beginners course, you’ll get direct access to my Online Fly Shop + an exclusive 30% discount on your 1st order of hand-tied fly patterns that actually catch fish + a FREE Discount Quality Flies Starter Fly Box, along with the knowledge on how to choose the right fly riverside, and when to fish them… so you can spend more time learning and less time second-guessing.
Guided by Grit was built on experience—on the water and in life.
I’ve spent over 30 years fly fishing and decades guiding professionally, but my path into this work wasn’t about chasing titles or proving anything. It was about learning how to stay steady, adapt when things change, and keep showing up—skills that matter just as much on the river as they do off it.
Fly fishing became a place where confidence was built the honest way—one cast, one knot, one day at a time. What started as a passion grew into a career and a calling: helping women, those worn out by ego, and anyone craving connection to the natural world learn real skills-without ego or intimidation.
Life has shaped how I guide. Health challenges, recovery, and change have taught me patience, precision, and deep respect for bodies and minds that keep going. That perspective is woven into everything I teach: practical instruction, clear explanations, and encouragement that meets you where you are.
Guided by Grit exists for every one who wants to feel capable—not performative.
You don’t need to be fearless. You don’t need to fit a mold.
You just need the right guidance and the willingness to learn.
I’m glad you’re here!
P.S. Fly fishing isn’t about being fearless—it’s about being prepared. You’re already on your way.
I teach because I know what it feels like to step into fly fishing and wonder if you belong there.
I didn’t grow up with access, privilege, or perfect conditions—and I didn’t learn this sport in a way that felt welcoming or simple. Over time, I realized that what keeps most people from progressing isn’t lack of ability—it’s intimidation they feel out on the water, lack of clear instruction and supportive guidance.
I teach to remove the noise.
I believe confidence is built through understanding, not pressure. Through repetition, not perfection. And through learning from someone who respects your time, your space, and your pace.
My goal is to give you skills that actually stick—so you can fish independently, make decisions on your own, and enjoy the water without second-guessing yourself.
This isn’t about doing it “the right way.”
It’s about doing it your way—with competence, confidence, and grit.
This course is for you if:
You’re new to fly fishing and want clear, judgment-free instruction
You’ve tried before but felt overwhelmed or unsure
You want to feel confident without needing to “prove” anything
You learn best through practical explanations, not hype
You value respect for the fish, the water, and yourself
You don’t need experience.
You don’t need special gear.
You don’t need to fit a certain image.
You just need curiosity and the willingness to learn.
Inside this course, you’ll learn:
The core skills you’ll actually use on the water
How to make simple, confident decisions while fishing
Why certain techniques matter (without overcomplicating them)
How to practice in ways that build confidence, not frustration
How to fish comfortably and responsibly — for you and the fish
Everything is taught with intention: no fluff, no ego, no overwhelm.
To get the most value from this course:
Start at the beginning, even if some things feel familiar
Watch or listen once without pressure to memorize
Practice one small thing at a time
Take breaks when your brain or body needs them
Come back often — confidence builds through repetition
There’s no rush here.
Progress matters more than perfection.
This course is designed to support you, not test you.