Landon Mayer loves fly fishing, the connection it creates between the angler and their surroundings. He is fueled by the addiction to pursue trout on the fly. He is an enthusiastic guide that guides on the South Platte River in Colorado.
Landon especially loves to demonstrate and teach his fly fishing techniques and knowledge to anglers, and has developed strategies to help guests sight, hook, and land trout. When Landon is not guiding clients, he is fishing himself, or sharing his passion with his wife, Michelle, and four children in Florissant, Colorado.
Where are your home waters? / Is this different from where you guide now?
My home water is the South Platte River. And, I have been guiding on the South Platte River in addition to one year in Alaska on the NakNek River.
Where do you fish/guide?
The South Platte River, 11 Mile Reservoir, Spinney Reservoir, Antero Reservoir, Blue River, and Arkansas River.
What species of fish do you guide for?
Trout, Pike, and Carp.
When guiding clients, are you walk-in fishing, fishing shorelines, fishing from a drift boat/jet boat/prop boat? What is your specific style?
I walk wade, fish from a Flycraft raft, and a Hog Island skiff.
How long have you been professionally guiding?
25 years.
Who is your biggest inspiration or mentor?
John Barr and Ed Engle.
What is your favorite part about guiding and the thing that keeps you coming back every day?
I love watching anglers in the moment of excitement when they successfully land a trout they sighted.
What was your first fishing experience? / When did you begin fly fishing?
My first experience was in 11 Mile Canyon with my family. I started angling when I was 8 years old.
Most embarrassing thing to happen while guiding a trip? (For you or a guest)
Taking a header in the water while trying to net a client’s fish. I did still manage to find the net and scoop up the fish, though! Lol
Best day on the water with clients, tell us about it.
I onced helped a blind woman land a fish by swinging Caddis flies in the late summer.
Dream fishing trip?
I still dream of fishing New Zealand.
Do you think that conservation plays a role in guiding? Why or why not.
Yes, it is our job as ambassadors to protect the resource.
What is it that draws you to fly fishing?
Giving back, in so many ways.
Best and worst places you have guided clients?
Best place I’ve guided clients was hosting a trip in the Amazon for Peacock Bass with Nomadic Waters.
Worst place was on the South Platte River when a class 2-3 tornado touched down a quarter mile away.
What is a trick that you teach guests often?
Don’t go past the plain of your shoulder when you set the hook. This will prevent reaching the breaking point.
What is one tip you would give someone when they are trying to find a fishing guide for a trip?
Find a guide who enjoys teaching!
What is your favorite fly to use on the water, not necessarily the best, but your favorite? Also, what is your go-to guide fly?
Leeches, it’s always leech season! My go to flies include the Mayer’s Mini Leech and Mini Leech Jig.
Favorite piece of gear you could not live without, and why?
Scientific Angler Fluorocarbon leaders and tippets.
Do you prefer a specific rod manufacturer over others? Why?
R L Winston with a Bauer Reel.
What about waders… What brand are you rocking, and why?
Simms all the way!
What are you listening to on the way to the river?
Tool
How can people connect with you? (Retail store, online store, social media handles, etc)
Website: www.landonmayerflyfishing.com
Instagram: @landonmayerflyfishing
YouTube: Landon Mayer Fly Fishing
Any parting thoughts you’d like us to add?
Positivity is a choice!
