Josh Hayes
Josh Hayes is a third-generation Alaskan currently residing on the Kenai Peninsula. As a kid in the early 80’s, Hayes’ father and grandfather taught him to fly fish using an 8-foot 7-weight Berkley Cherrywood rod. In high school, he landed a dream job at the legendary Mt. View Sports Center fly shop in Anchorage, and he has now been guiding fly anglers for more than 30 years. Hayes calls the legendary Kenai River home, because he has an affinity for extremely large rainbow trout. Hayes, along with his lifelong friend Billy Coulliette, were two of the first trout guides to explore the Kenai’s middle and lower reaches. Hayes spends the colder Alaska months hosting billfish trips in Guatemala, and tarpon trips in the Florida Keys. When pressed, he will confess that his favorite trip of all time was to Scotland for Atlantic Salmon.
Things About Josh
Guilty pleasure fly: Jerry Garcia yarnie.
Worst fishing snack: “Fried Chicken.”
Favorite knot: “Hufnagel.”
Waders smell like: “Dead fish, mildew, and dirty socks.”
More Things About Josh
Person you wish you could fish with... “Ernest Hemmingway.”
The best part about fly fishing?: “The places it takes me and the people I share it with.”
