Mornings start with mist over Main Street and the sound of the Esopus below. Waders get pulled on at the tailgate, guides share stories over rods, and boots crunch on gravel. Mark leads the way, easygoing and quick with a joke, eager to point out a rising trout or an old river tale.
What to Expect:
🎣 All gear provided for trips, with rods, waders, boots, and flies matched to river conditions
🗺️ Esopus Creek and area streams for native trout and a bit of Catskills history
👨🏫 Patient, hands-on instruction for all experience levels—beginners especially welcome
📸 Photos and stories captured along the way (sent after the trip)
🚐 Transportation included from meet-up to fishing location
Important Information:
✔ Guided by owner/guide Mark; booking required at least two days ahead
✔ Wheelchair accessible parking; riverbank access varies by site
✔ Call (914) 204-1190 to discuss specific needs or arrange custom experiences
✔ Service dogs allowed on river trips with prior notice
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
🐟 Prime Hatch Timing: Sulphurs and March Browns are strong mid-May to mid-June; tricos early mornings in late July.
🚶 Guide Meetups: Weekday mornings see fewer crowds—aim for 8:00 AM at the shop for best river access and unrushed gear-up.
🌊 Check Flows: Fishing is best on the Esopus when streamflows hit 250–500 cfs; check USGS gauges before your trip.
🎒 What to Bring: All technical gear is included, but a change of socks and sun protection go a long way on the water.
What folks are saying
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Feedback centers on Mark’s deep knowledge of local rivers, easygoing teaching style, and knack for reading the water. Many first-timers leave feeling capable, having landed fish and learned something new, while more experienced anglers appreciate the local history and streamcraft tips along the way. Mark’s approach is patient, lighthearted, and well-paced—groups, families, and couples regularly mention fun and easy outings. Occasional reviews note variable shop hours and that trips depend on current flows or hatches. Serious negative reviews are rare but include a small number of reports of inappropriate conduct, as well as two referencing racially insensitive remarks; most visitors report warm experiences but potential guests with concerns should review feedback before booking.
Last updated on
October 9th, 2025
