Testimonials

An email from a first time fly fisherman
Marty,
I wanted to let you know that I had a wonderful time fly fishing with you on Saturday.  Since it was my first time to ever go fly fishing and one of only a few times that I’ve ever done any kind of fishing, I was unsure as to what to expect.  However, you really made me feel at ease, which helped make it an enjoyable experience.  With you by my side, pointing out the best areas to cast, explaining the proper location of the floater, the reasons for mending my line and all the other details of fishing it became not only a great time to catch fish, but also to learn the basics of fly fishing.  I would highly recommend a guided trip with you.  Especially for someone like me who has little or no experience, yet wants to enjoy the beauty of fishing without the frustrations of going through the learning curve. Thanks for the great fishing trip.
Shannon Taylor
Charlotte, NC

After A Small Mouth Bass Trip, B. Millerlile of Catawba County Writes

Jeff,
We had a great time fishing with you yesterday. You did a truly fine job. I especially want to thank you for the fishing tips and instruction and fauna commentary. We intend to keep in touch. Get some rest if you can, you put alot of effort in your rowing in the extreme low water situtation.

B. Millerlile

An email from a client who along with his girlfriend floated the New River with us
Marty,
Just wanted to tell you what a good trip Meredith and I had with you.  You were very patient with Meredith, even when she almost hooked you.  The fishing was good, the float was relaxing, and you are a very pleasant person to fish with.  I couldn’t have asked for a better guide and would recommend your service to anyone- newbie or lifelong fisherman.  I greatly appreciate a guide who cares how many fish you are catching.  Just wanted to let you know that I think you did a great job and ill be back if I get a chance.
-Aaron Denson

An email from a new client after he and his son floated with Marty on the Watauga
My first ever guided trip was with Marty; what an experience!  It was my first float trip too.  Marty’s knowledge of the Watauga was first class, he put us right on the fish.  He helped us with our technique and increased our knowledge of dry fly fishing and nymphing.  I took my 13 year old son along and Marty was very patient and helped him extensively.  Marty took care of all the details making it a very enjoyable experience.  A float trip on the Watauga is a must for any angler.  The scenery is beautiful and the fishing is excellent!
Mark Livak
Fort Mill, SC

E-mail from second time fly fisherman.

Jeff,
I had a great time fishing with you and feel the amount and quality
of knowledge you passed on to me will be invaluable in my learning this
exciting new sport. I can honestly say I think you have taken years off my
learning curve. Once again, thanks and I hope to be back next year for another trip. I
would like to do a wade trip for mountain trout and a float trip for
smallmouth.

D. Hardy
Clemmons, NC

An unsolicited letter from one of our clients who floated the Watauga river with us June,2005

Marty,first, Nathan and I had a great time fishing on the Watauga with you as our guide. There is no doubt in my mind that had we not been using those flies and rigs of yours, we would not have landed the fish we did. Thank you.
I’ve enclosed a S.A.S.E. for you to send the photo you took of Nathan with the most gorgeous rainbow trout I’ve ever seen on any Tennessee tailwater. I’d be happy to reimburse you any other expense incurred.
Lastly, we will most definitely like you to guide Nathan and myself again. I would love to float the South Holston, but know they have a limited generation schedule. However, whenever you think we might schedule a float, please let me know. You have my contact info.

Dr. Dick Davis
Nashville, TN

Another testimonial from one of our regular customers

Marty, I truly enjoyed my smallmouth bass float on the New river with you. I can’t believe I caught 41 smallies on top by myself, what a day! You are truly a pleasure to spend the day with and you provide a great day on the river. Looking forward to doing it again!

Harold Johnson, Sr.
High Point, NC

Harold is an experienced angler who has fished worldwide, including Alaska, the Bahamas and the Florida Key’s. Harold has become a regular customer of ours, going on from one to five float trips a year with us. Harold is a valued customer of ours and we appreciate him.

Another satisfied Watauga river client
Marty,

Just wanted to send you a big thank you for the trip down the Watauga. That was Derek’s and my first guided trip and it was truly an awesome experience. Your knowledge of the water and its inhabitants led us to many fish throughout the day and your hospitality is second to none. I have not since had a day as good as that one and I truly look forward to doing it again.

Take care,

Jamie Moore
Winston-Salem, N.C.

Another Guides Response via E-mail

Jeff,
Dad and me had a great time fishing with you this past Monday. I enjoyed it as much as my offshore fishing. I would have never thought those trout would have fought as hard as they do.
I have fished in many locations and with a lot of guides and Captains over my fishing career and you my friend rank as one of the best. I look forward to fishing with you again soon.

Sincerely,
Carroll Lineberger Jr
Co-Captain Team Offshore Carolina
SKA Pro Fishing Team

Here’s what Mike Siegert had to say about his Pennsylvania steelhead trip with Tri-State Angler. Mike is a long time client of ours going on 4-6 trips a year with Marty

Marty,
Wow!  What a trip!  I never knew fish could do cartwheels.  That was the most exciting fishing experience of my life. 
I am glad (in a way) that I wasn’t introduced to steelhead fishing earlier.  I don’t know if I would be able to appreciate the other fishing I do.  Words just can’t describe an 8+ pound steelhead hitting a fly and going absolutely berserk. 
I can’t wait to go back and try them again next year.  Thanks for a great trip!
Your friend,
Mike Siegert

Jim Cox, has been on 2 trips with Tri-State Angler

Marty,
Just a quick note to tell you what a great time I had last Friday. Makes me want to do it every day! Thanks.

JIm Cox