Jake Pappas
Jake Pappas is the co-owner of Yellowstone Fly Fishing Co., where he spends his days guiding anglers across the rivers and lakes of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
Jake cut his teeth in New England—trout streams with his dad, striped bass and false albacore when the seasons shifted. That early mix of freshwater and salt stuck. It’s still part of how he sees fishing today.
After college in Colorado, he headed north and never really looked back. The rivers of Wyoming, Montana, and Yellowstone National Park became home water. Over the past decade, he’s built a reputation for consistency across a wide range of fisheries—from technical dry fly fishing on the Yellowstone to exploring lesser-known water throughout the region.
These days, he lives in Livingston with his wife and son. When he’s not on the water for work, he’s on it anyway—fishing the Yellowstone as often as he can.
Things About Jake
Worst fishing snack: Soggy sandwiches.
Guilty pleasure fly: Led eye woolly bugger.
Most overrated fish: Bonefish.
Most underrated fish: Triggerfish, especially the ones that live in the South Pacific.
Favorite knot: Non-slip mono loop.
More Things About Jake
Waders smell like... Not good. Depends how long they’re in truck for, but usually like a wet dog. Partially on me, partially my lab's fault.
One person, living or dead, you wish you could fish with. Lefty Kreh for sure. He's a legend in all aspects of fly fishing, especially in the striper world where I grew up. His fly design has had an impact on all my fishing and guiding. From stripers, to Golden Dorado, to streamer fishing on the Yellowstone.
The best part about fly fishing. Time on the water, thinking about nothing else.
Favorite Gear: RS Outpost Jacket
“I live in this piece. Very comfortable. Cool mornings in Montana; cold, rainy days in Patagonia; and cool evening walks on Sunset Boulevard in Echo Park.”
