I can say without a doubt that Derrick Kirkpatrick is one of the most technical and passionate guides on the planet. Not only does he have the ability to find and put you on big fish, he understands fooling fish on an incredibly deep and intricate level. From Streamers, European style nymphing and technical dry fly presentations to entomology, stream ecology and trout behavior Derrick is an enthusiastic and gifted teacher. I highly recommend a day on the water with Derrick. I guarantee you will be a better angler the day after than you were the day before.
I am an experienced saltwater fly fisherman but have only very limited experience fishing for trout. I have been out on the river twice with Derrick now. I have been on guided trips before but never before with someone who was so patient and willing to teach a virtual beginner. I recall his pleasant company, his answering my many, probably stupid, questions and a crash course in trout knowledge and fresh water techniques like none other. I also remember some terrific trout brought to the net and Derrick trying to convince me that catching that real-non stretched 20” brown trout was a very big deal. I think the big deal is a guide putting a rookie client in the right spot with the right technique to catch a 20” brown trout! I absolutely and without qualification recommend Derrick for his excellent guide service. Just don’t book him when I next go up to the Farmington!
I have been very successful striper fishing from a boat for many years. A few years ago, I unfortunately sold my boat and needed to learn how to fish from the surf. I realized very quickly that I needed some serious guidance. This past winter, I went to one of the workshops that Derrick gave and was blown away. I then booked a 1 on 1 surf lesson with him at which I took over 8 pages of notes! With what I learned, I am happy to say that I have caught more large bass this spring alone than I did the last 3 years combined! There is no doubt in my mind that I owe this success to what I learned from you Derrick, so I thank you greatly.
Derrick runs an incredible operation at CT Fish Guides. I grew up fishing the Farmington, but had been away from the sport for 5 years before running into Derrick. Since then I have spent the last 2 years fishing and learning from him during all seasons, on all water types. Each trip provides a new way to catch trout and feel more confident about your angling ability. If you're a beginner or looking to hone your skills, CT Fish Guides should be the first and last stop in your search.
