Josh first made a name for himself in the Colorado snowboarding scene while riding for Nightmare. His 20’s were spent traveling the world snowboarding — filming video parts, appearing at events and competing in contests alongside the industry’s top riders.

When Josh wasn’t on a board, you could find him by a river or on a lake. Growing up in Minnesota, Josh was no stranger to fishing. In fact, his Dad first put a spin rod in his hand at the ripe old age of three.

During an afternoon of fishing the Blue River in Silverthorne, Colorado, Josh couldn’t help but notice a fly fisherman upstream who’s fly rod seemed constantly bent. Josh left the Blue and immediately went into the nearest fly shop.

Josh asked Andrew, the shop owner “What’s your cheapest beginner setup?” to which he replied, “$250.” Josh’s response? “Well shoot. I’m gonna have to save up for this.”

The cost of entry for fly fishing was just too high for a bakery-employed, ski-bum College Student to swing.

Josh mentioned the disappointing experience to his Dad. A few months later on Josh’s 23rd birthday, his Dad presented him a gift. Lo and behold — it was his very first fly rod.

He was hooked.

Josh was relentless in his new obsession and dedicated the next few years to the art & science of fly fishing. Countless hours were spent on the water honing his abilities — learning to read water, understanding fish behavior & habitat, gaining knowledge of entomology & local ecology — Josh was methodical in his approach to learning.

Soon, Josh had logged over 1000 river miles on his whitewater fly fishing raft, cruising over class III & IV rapids, guiding clients, friends, and family on the exhilarating waterways.

In 2016, Josh returned to his home state of Minnesota with the goal of guiding full-time, and perhaps even starting his own fly fishing business one day. He started guiding for trout with Root River Rod Co part time in 2018. Fast forward to 2020 — Josh finally turned his favorite hobby into his career with the launch of Larry The Lunker, LLC.

Now, with 5+ years of guiding experience, Josh is a seasoned pro who has taken the time to understand the secrets of the waters he Guides on. He possesses the utmost respect for nature and aims to pass that passion along to each and every one of his Clients. Not only does he run his own business, Josh also guides for Root River Rod Co in Lanesboro Minnesota, and is a fly fishing instructor at Margo + Lola Fly Fishing School in Ellsworth, Wisconsin.

Whether you are a fly fishing newbie or a seasoned vet, Josh can provide you an informative and memorable guided experience. Not only will he position you to catch a fish, but he will also leave you with a deep knowledge and a new-found respect for the waterways explored.