As I look back at the 2022 season, I also reflect on this summer being my 10th year guiding around Montana. Looking back it makes me realize how fast the time really goes. In 2012 I started walk/wade guiding the Gallatin River and was just getting comfortable rowing a drift boat. Ten years later, I now guide most of the fabled rivers around Montana including the Big Hole, Blackfoot, Madison and Missouri Rivers.
Over this time, I have also been blessed to meet the love of my life and we have built a beautiful family while settling our roots in Philipsburg. My lovely ladies; Gwyneth, Jessie and Eliza, make it possible for me to live my dream and I can’t wait for all of our adventures as our girls get older. One of my 2022 highlights was floating Rock Creek with Gwyneth while she was playing hooky from work. I loved to see her back on the river, but I was also daydreaming about my next raft that will be big enough for the whole family to take river trips.
2022 was a season of extremes on the water. It started with lots of rain and high water and transitioned to record high temperatures around the state and Hoot Owl fishing restrictions on many rivers. Fall brought smoke filled skies from local wildfires and early snowfall by mid October. Through it all I enjoyed many memorable days on the water with lots of great people. Thank you for another great summer!
McKinnie Fly Fishing Outfitters of Montana 
My trip with you several years ago was a blast and you were a great guide. We didn’t catch any really large fish but the experience was great. I see by the photo’s that you are keeping up the good work. One question (the answer to which may be a trade secret so I would understand if you don’t answer); when you were tying on the dropper nymph you used a special technique which let the nymph display a more natural action in the water, how do you tie that knot? I have tried to duplicate it but with no success.
Tom Helmick, Molalla, Oregon (formerly from Grangeville, Idaho)
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Hello Tom, great to hear from you. That knot is the non-slip mono loop. You can probably find some illustrations online somewhere I bet. Hope you and the family are doing well!
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