Mornings start with mist on the river, birds picking up, and boots crunching through gravel before first casts. Joe keeps it direct—he’s streamside long before daylight, pulling together rods, tying on fresh flies, and tuning you to the rhythm of local water. Expect clarity, quiet humor, and a focus on understanding how the Catskills rivers really fish.
What to Expect:
🎣 Patient instruction for both first-timers and seasoned anglers
🐟 Local stream access: Beaverkill, Willowemoc, East/West Branch Delaware, Callicoon Creek
🪶 Guide-tied flies matched to current hatches and flows
👢 Top-quality loaner waders, boots, and setups included (bring your own if you like)
📚 Stories, river history, and fishing philosophy blended naturally with teaching
Important Information:
✔ Guided wade trips only—no shop storefront or retail sales
✔ Full gear provided (rod, reel, waders, boots, leader/tippet, flies)
✔ Booking required in advance via website form or email
✔ Wheelchair accessible parking available with riverside access for some spots—call to discuss specifics
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
Local Insights
🪰 May/June Green Drake: Best dry fly action is late May–early June, especially on the Willowemoc and Beaverkill after 7:00 PM.
🌊 Flow Watch: Ideal stream flows for walk-in trips are 200–600 cfs on the Beaverkill; trips flex for safe wading if rains blow out banks.
⏰ First Light Advantage: Earliest start times mean you’ll get the best holes—Joe’s ready before sunrise if you want to chase a hatch or beat heat.
🧢 License Quick Tip: Buy your NYS fishing license online (print or digital) before arrival; guides will ask at meetup.
What folks are saying
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Clients rave about Joe’s knack for patient, practical teaching—he makes casting, fly choice, and reading water approachable even for absolute beginners. Repeat anglers and first-timers alike mention memorable days, hands-on learning, and being put on wild trout. Reviews highlight clear communication, flexibility in both booking and adapting to river conditions, and the extra care shown for safety and fun. All gear is top notch and well prepared, and trips always feel focused and unhurried. Crowds are rarely a problem—Joe finds fresh water, even in busy season. No persistent negative feedback reported.
Last updated on
October 9th, 2025
