Our Gear
R.L. Winston Rod Co.
www.winstonrods.com
I love Winston rods. They build the highest quality rods on the market today. I really enjoy the fact that they are so lightweight, yet still have all the "backbone" needed to land large fish and cast long distances when needed. Not to mention their good looking, cosmetic appeal.
For my trout fishing, I choose either the Boron IIx or the Boron IIt models. Which one depends on the situation, of course.
I use the BIIx when fishing the Hiwassee River because it gives me the power to launch big streamers into the wind or to cast heavy double nymph rigs with great accuracy. These fast action rods can deliver everything I need while fishing this big East TN tailwater.
The BIIt is my choice when fishing smaller streams. I will also take it on the Hiwassee River for clients to use. It is a medium action rod that has a very forgiving quality to it. This makes it ideal for many different casting styles. It is a great all-around rod for those who enjoy versatility and don't want to carry around different rods just in case the conditions change.
ClackaCraft Drift Boats
www.clacka.com
I have used ClackaCraft drift boats exclusively from my very first day as a guide. You just can't beat their comfort and safety on the water. They respond well to the oars and are very durable. That durability is nice when you "never saw that rock".
I use my boat for Hiwassee River float trips. The Hiwassee is notorious for being one of the hardest rivers in the country to row. It is a tailwater like no other in East Tennessee. It is known for its huge and often hidden rocks. My boat has hit its share of rocks, but has never failed to get me down the river safely. The responsiveness it has to the oar strokes is incredible. That is very important when you have to weave your way in and out of rocks or when you have to hold your position in a drop shoal so your clients can fish it adequately before moving on.
I love the interior layout of my boat as well. Plenty of storage and very user friendly design. I just can't see myself owning any other brand of drift boat.
Orvis
www.orvis.com
Orvis is my personal choice when it comes to waders and vests. Their quality and the fact that they stand behind everything they sell makes them an easy choice. I am hard on my gear. I spend several days each year using and abusing it. It has to last. I can't worry about it letting me down right in the middle of a trip. My clients pay me to be on the water. They don't care if my waders are leaking. That's why I wear Orvis Silver Label waders. They're light, breathe well and are some of the most comfortable waders that I have ever worn.
And yes, I know that any waders can begin leaking. But I also know that Orvis will stand behind them and do whatever they can to keep me a happy customer. That means alot to me.
My Battenkill Pro Guide Vest is simply the best vest I have ever owned. Plenty of room to carry all I need for a day on the water. It also dries quickly and will not mildew. That is very important to a guide. We don't always have the luxury of allowing our gear to dry completely before having to use it again. This benefit alone is worth the price of the vest. Just consider the other features of this vest a bonus.
Korkers
www.korkers.com
Korkers has really became the leader in the wading boot industry lately. Their innovative technology of interchangeable soles has really been noticed by the industry. Especially since the push to ban felt soles began.
I use Korkers boots exclusively in my guiding service. Not only do I wear them to guide in, but I also have about 15 other pairs of Korkers that I use as rental boots for clients who would rather rent boots instead of packing their own boots to bring on vacation. They really are the best wading boots I have ever used. They are very comfortable and I love the Boa Lace System.
Galvan Fly Reels
www.galvanflyreels.com
Let me make this simple. Galvan reels are the best reels on the market, period. Lightweight, great drag system and smooth as silk. Not to mention the fact that they look great. They are also designed and manufactured 100% in the USA by the Galvan family.
I use the Torque T-5 reel for my trout and smallmouth fishing and the T-8 reel for my striper fishing. They are beautiful reels and very well designed. They have never let me down.