Allison, tell us how long you have been fishing?
I grew up in a very fishy family. When we were big enough to hold a fishing pole (probably around 2) my dad taught my siblings and myself how to fish. At the age of 9, my dad got me my first fly rod thinking I might enjoy fly fishing… Clearly, he was right.
Where ya from?
I was born and raised in Nashville Tennessee. After graduating from Belmont University I moved to Colorado in 2012 where I began my career as both an elementary school teacher and a fly fishing guide.
What motivated you to move West?
After the guiding season ended last year I knew I wanted a change of scenery from the small mountain town I was living in Colorado. My solution was to go on a road trip with Taylor Swift (the dog) in search of a new home, Griff refers to this as my “walk about”. I had heard from multiple people that Bend was an awesome place and it would be worth checking out along my journey. I was gone for a total of 5 weeks, saw 9 states, and drove about 5,000 miles. After spending one day in Bend I knew this was the place for me. Once I returned back to Colorado I quickly found an apartment in Bend and moved to Oregon!
If you had to choose one species to fish for the rest of your life, what would it be? Why?
If I could only fish for one species of fish for the rest of my life I would choose to fish for trout. Trout are all gorgeous, fun to catch, and challenging all at the same time.
How long have you been guiding? Where else have you guided?
This is my third season guiding and my first in Oregon. I started guiding in Minturn Colorado and Minturn Anglers.
Can you share your favorite guide story with us?
My favorite and most memorable guided trip would hands down be the casting for recovery trip I did last fall. Guides from different shops throughout the valley came together and guided women who either have had breast cancer or are going through treatment for it. We all worked together to create a special day for the women. When one hooked up with a fish everyone got excited and cheered them on