Growing up in Western Wisconsin, my passion for fly fishing began at a young age, living a stones throw from some of the finest spring creeks in the country. Eventually, my desire to pursue warmwater species on fly tackle grew and the aperature widened, taking me to rivers, lakes, backwaters and bays in search of smallmouth bass, musky, carp and pike. I met my wife in 2000 and in 2005 we moved to northeast Wisconsin. Shortly after moving, I began guiding for Tight Lines Fly Fishing Company in De Pere, Wisconsin. Since then, I’ve been fortunate to have guided some of the greatest legends in our sport and have grown a list of not only great clients, but many great friends from across the country. I love putting my clients on great fish, but really enjoy teaching them something new, be it a new technique, a new fly pattern or a unique seasonal opportunity. 

Nate has his photography featured in several books and magazines and was also involved in the films “Off the Grid”, “SpeyDaze”, “Summer Haze” and the recent FlyLords Midwest Fly Shop Tour. 

Home Water: Both the Driftless streams of west-central Wisconsin and the warmwater rivers of northeast Wisconsin have a special place in my heart. 

Lines I Use the Most: I’d say the Bass Bug Taper for earlier season stuff… we need to make quick, short to medium range shots efficiently and accurately to maximize our opportunities at big smallmouth on our rivers. We’re often fishing big hair bugs or baitfish patterns and need to hit as many spots as possible, while also being cognizant of accuracy and control. Secondly, I’d say the Amplitude Smooth Infinity Warm… Once our water levels drop, longer casts with lighter flies and lengthened leaders are the norm. Casts to fish that are sitting in 10-12” of water are common, so we need a delivery method that is accurate and controlled, without making too much noise. The Infinity Warm fits that bill extremely well. 

Where Would I Like to Fish?: Oh wow, just one?! I’m not sure how to pick a single location from my wishlist, but I’d have to say it would be either Australia or Costa Rica. Not solely for the fishing, but the all-encompassing biodiversity and ecosystems. 

Two Truths & a Lie About Me: To make this more interesting, these are not in that order… 

• I’ve owned more drift boats than vehicles in my life 
• I’d kill for good lemon bars 
• If I wasn’t a guide, I’d love to be in advertising or marketing