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Guided Fly Fishing Trips
Jason Swingen is an experienced Fly Fishing Guide based out of Duluth MN. Offering unforgettable multi-species fly fishing guided trips along the North Shore of Lake Superior to the South Shores of Wisconsin. Targeting migratory steelhead and salmon, as well as native brook trout, and float trips for smallmouth bass, pike, and walleye.
Whether you are an experienced fly-fisher, or you have never cast a fly-rod before Jason will provide you with personalized instruction to help improve your techniques and catch more fish.
Navigate to a specific section on this page using the links below.
Guiding Calender
| Apr | May | June | July | Aug | Sept | Oct | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Shore Steelhead | YES | YES | |||||
| South Shore Steelhead | YES | YES | YES | YES | |||
| North Shore Brook Trout | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | ||
| North Shore Pink Salmon | YES | YES | |||||
| Warmwater Float Trip | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | ||
| Casting Instructions | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
North Shore Steelhead
Trip Details
April and May are prime times for North Shore wild steelhead. We guide over a dozen rivers from Duluth to Canada. Trip destinations are tentatively scheduled but we prefer to be nimble and able to choose rivers that are hot on any given day. Wild steelhead are entirely catch-and-release on the North Shore so our fish can grow to impressive sizes. All North Shore steelhead trips are walk and wade. Learn more about catching North Shore steelhead.
- Dates: April, May
- Trip Options: Walk and Wade
- Anglers: One, Two, or Three
Brule River Migratory Fish
Trip Details
The Bois Brule is a storied and famous river located in northern Wisconsin, roughly 45 minutes from Duluth, MN. Spring and fall trips are available. Wild steelhead fill the river in spring, offering our earliest trips, from April through early May. Migratory brown trout, salmon, and steelhead offer great fishing from September through mid-November. Our migratory trips explore the lower river from US Hwy 2 north to Lake Superior. All Bois Brule migratory trips are walk and wade. Learn more about catching Brule River steelhead.
- Dates: April, May, September, October
- Trip Options: Walk and Wade
- Anglers: One, Two, or Three
North Shore Brook Trout
Trip Details
Fly fishing for wild brook trout beneath towering waterfalls and through deep canyons is a unique way to experience the North Shore. Resident brook trout are an excellent option for those learning to fly fish, looking to explore the wilderness, kids, or those wanting to fine-tune technique. Easy access and more challenging trips are available. We offer these trips from the end of May through the end of September. All North Shore trout trips are walk-wade. Learn more about brook trout fishing on the north shore of Lake Superior.
- Dates: May, June, July, September
- Trip Options: Walk and Wade
- Anglers: One, Two, Three, or Four
Warmwater Float Trip
Trip Details
Float down a river and run the rapids through the Northern Minnesota wilderness on a scenic fly fishing float trip! Smallmouth bass, northern pike and the occasional muskie or walleye are the quarry. Using larger rods to cast topwater flies and streamers, this is a great way to hit the water in the heat of summer. This is a warm-weather trip option and we guide rivers such as the St. Louis and Cloquet from June through September. Limited to 2 people. Learn more about fly fishing for bass and other warmwater species.
- Dates: June, July, September
- Trip Options: Walk and Wade, or Float Trip
- Anglers: One, or Two
North Shore Pink Salmon
Trip Details
Pink salmon are one of the most underrated migratory fish on the north shore. They often enter Lake Superior’s tributaries in great numbers, they can be fairly easy to find, and they fight extremely hard for their size. They are a great species for beginners to get started into fly fishing as well as great for advanced anglers to fine-tune their skills in preparation for the spring steelhead run. Learn more about fly fishing for pink salmon.
- Dates: September, October
- Trip Options: Walk and Wade
- Anglers: One, Two, or Three
Fly Casting Instructions
Trip Details
New to fly casting or looking to fine-tune your casting technique? Spend some time outside working on everything from basic overhead casting, roll casting or even advanced double hauling for an upcoming saltwater trip.
- Dates: March, April, May, June, July, September, October
- Anglers: One, Two, Three, or Four
Book Your Fly Fishing Trip
Rates
- Half-Day Guided Fly Fishing (Walk and Wade) - $350
- Full-Day Guided Fly Fishing (Walk and Wade) - $500
- Full-Day Float Guided Fly Fishing (Float Trip) - $575
- Additional Anglers - $50/angler
- Waders and Boots Rental - $35/day
- Fly Rod and Reel Rental - $35/day
- Fly Casting Lessons - $50/hr/person
A $200 deposit is required after a trip is set up to lock in your fishing date.
- Full days include lunch and beverages.
- Flies and tippet are provided for all trips.
- Gratuity not included, but greatly appreciated.
No refunds will be made within one week of your scheduled trip. We will notify you if weather or water conditions require the cancellation or rescheduling of your trip. In such a case, a full refund will be made if other arrangements cannot be made to your satisfaction.</sma>
All rates are subject to change at any time. Confirmation of rates occurs only with receipt of the deposit for your trip.
We are dedicated to protecting our natural resources and promoting responsible fishing practices. All trips are catch-and-release only. Even if regulations allow for fish to legally be kept.
Frequently Asked Questions
What To Expect On A Guided Fly Fishing Trip?
Expect a personalized experience tailored to your skill level and preferences. Your guide will provide instruction, equipment, and local knowledge. The trip may include casting practice, fishing techniques, and information about the local ecosystem. Be prepared for a mix of fishing, learning, and enjoying the outdoors The guide will also ensure your safety and comfort throughout the trip.What To Wear When Fly Fishing?
Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions. Wear moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers. Remember a hat, polarized sunglasses, and sunscreen. Avoid cotton as it retains moisture and can lead to discomfort. Bring a change of clothes in case you get wet. Our steelhead trips can be cold, so be prepared for chilly weather even in the summer. Thick socks are helpful (as long as you still have enough room to move your toes) and using hand-warmers and toe-warmers may be beneficial. Waders and boots are recommended for most trips. In the summer, wet wading is an option, but you should still wear appropriate footwear. We recommend wearing wading boots with wading socks when appropriate. If you are not renting waders, make sure to wear quick-drying pants and a long-sleeve shirt to protect against sunburn and insect bites. Some trips require hiking a fair distance to reach our fishing location. We recommend wearing rubber-soled wading boots. Studs are helpful for traction when wading, but not allowed on float trips. If you are renting waders, we will provide you with appropriate wading boots. Don't worry we will tie on your flies, but just in case it can be helpful to bring your own nippers, and hemostats. Bonus points if you bring my all-time favorite fly-fishing accessory, the Scissor Mitten Clamp.What Is The Difference Between A Half-Day And Full-Day Trip?
A half-day trip typically lasts around 4 hours, while a full-day trip lasts about 8 hours. Half-day trips are great for those with limited time or who want to try fly fishing without a full commitment. Full-day trips allow for more fishing time, exploration, and a more relaxed pace. Most of our trips are full-day trips, especially our float trips and steelhead trips, but we are happy to accomodate half-day trips as well.What To Bring On A Fly Fishing Trip?
If you aren't renting gear, make sure to bring your rod, reel, line, waders, and boots. A selection of flies can be helpful, but your guide will have a good selection of flies as well as extra leaders and tippet. For local fly recommendations please contact us or visit our local fly shop the Superior Fly Angler. It may be helpful to bring a small pack with that you can bring extra water, snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses, and your fishing license. Your guide will have an appropriate sized net, but feel free to bring your own or any other gear you may prefer to use, especially if you are with a larger group and we may be slightly spread out throughout the day.What Weight And Length Of Fly Rod Should I Bring?
The best fly fishing rod weight and length depends on the type of fishing you'll be doing.- For brook trout, native brown trout, a 3-5 weight rod is ideal (7.5' to 9').
- For pink salmon and coaster brook trout, a 5-6 weight rod is recommended (8.5' to 9').
- For bass and pike, a 6-8 weight rod is recommended (8.5' to 9').
- For steelhead and salmon, an 8-10 weight rod is often used (9' to 10').
- For swinging flies for steelhead a two-handed 6-8 weight switch or spey rod is perfect for our local waters (10.5'-12').
Where Do We Meet?
Meeting locations vary based on the trip type and location. Because most of the rivers we will fish in are dependant on water-flow, and some of the fish are migratory we will not know the exact location of where we will be fishing until often a few days before our trip. When scheduling a trip we will let you know general areas of where we will most likely be fishing, then will contact you a few days before our trip to make a plan for our day on the water. Often we will meet at a local parking area or trailhead near the fishing location. If you are staying near Duluth or Two Harbors, we can often arrange to pick you up.Will You Take Pictures Of Our Trip?
Yes! We are happy to take pictures of you and your group during the trip. We want you to have great memories of your experience, so feel free to ask your guide to take pictures at any time. At the end of the trip you should receive a link to download and view the pictures that were taken during the trip.Is Lunch Provided?
Lunch is provided on full-day trips as well as float trips. Let your guide know if you have any food allergies or food preferences. Most meals consist of a ham or turkey sandwich, snacks, and drinks. Lunch is not provided on half-day trips, but you are welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks. Please let your guide know if you have any food allergies or food preferences.How Much To Tip Your Fly Fishing Guide?
A standard tip for a fly fishing guide in the US is typically between 15% and 20% of the trip cost. However, factors like the length of the trip, the guide's effort, and the overall satisfaction with the experience can influence the tip amount. Calculate 15-25% of the total cost of the trip. If the guide went above and beyond, consider tipping more. If you were not satisfied with the service, you may tip less, but it's important to communicate your concerns. Private guides often receive higher tips due to the personalized nature of the experience.What Is The Best Time Of Year To Go Fly Fishing?
The best time to go fly fishing varies by location and species. Generally, spring and fall are excellent migratory fish like steelhead, while summer can be great for warm-water species and native brook trout.Do I Need A Fishing License?
Yes, a fishing license is required in most areas to fish legally. The type of license you need may vary based on your location, the species you're targeting, and whether you're fishing in freshwater or saltwater. Check with your local wildlife agency or department of natural resources for specific licensing requirements and regulations.You can purchase your fishing license using the links below.
Can I Keep Any Fish I Catch?
We are dedicated to protecting our natural resources and promoting responsible fishing practices. All trips are catch-and-release only. Even if regulations allow for fish to legally be kept.What If I Have Never Fished Before?
No problem! Our guides are experienced in teaching beginners. They will provide all the necessary instruction and equipment to ensure you have a great experience, regardless of your skill level. Just let us know when booking that you are a beginner, and we will tailor the trip to your needs.What If I Have A Disability Or Have Limited Mobility?
We strive to accommodate all individuals, regardless of physical ability. Please contact us in advance to discuss any specific needs or requirements you may have, and we will do our best to make the trip accessible and enjoyable for you.What If I Have A Large Group?
We can accommodate large groups for guided trips. Please contact us in advance to discuss your group size and any specific requirements. We can arrange multiple guides to ensure everyone has a great experience on the water.What Is Your Cancellation Policy?
Cancellations made more than 7 days before the scheduled trip will receive a full refund. We will notify you if weather or water conditions require cancellation or rescheduling. If you need to cancel within 7 days of the trip, we may not be able to offer a refund, but we will do our best to accommodate rescheduling based on availability.
Guiding Gallery
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