Chad is a passionate fly fishing guide who brings a lifetime of experience and a deep love for the outdoors to every trip he leads. Based in beautiful Washington State, he offers scenic float trips through the North Cascades targeting native Westslope Cutthroat and Rainbow Trout, as well as action-packed fly fishing adventures for Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, and Rainbows across the Columbia Basin.
Born and raised in the Blue Ridge Mountains of upstate South Carolina, Chad cut his teeth chasing Largemouth Bass in hidden backwater ponds and drifting dry flies to Rainbow and Brook Trout in small mountain streams. His journey since then has taken him coast to coast—from New York to California—fishing for everything from Brown Trout and Smallmouth Bass to Snook and even Leopard Sharks. But it wasn’t until settling in Washington in 2018 that Chad truly found his stride.
While working as a field biologist for the USDA, Chad spent five days a week fishing the Columbia River, from Priest Rapids Dam all the way to Rocky Reach. The goal was conservation—removing predatory species to protect...
About Your Guide
Chad Ashby
Independent Guide
Chad is a passionate fly fishing guide who brings a lifetime of experience and a deep love for the outdoors to every trip he leads. Based in beautiful Washington State, he offers scenic float trips through the North Cascades targeting native Westslope Cutthroat and Rainbow Trout, as well as action-packed fly fishing adventures for Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, and Rainbows across the Columbia Basin.
Born and raised in the Blue Ridge Mountains of upstate South Carolina, Chad cut his teeth chasing Largemouth Bass in hidden backwater ponds and drifting dry flies to Rainbow and Brook Trout in small mountain streams. His journey since then has taken him coast to coast—from New York to California—fishing for everything from Brown Trout and Smallmouth Bass to Snook and even Leopard Sharks. But it wasn’t until settling in Washington in 2018 that Chad truly found his stride.
While working as a field biologist for the USDA, Chad spent five days a week fishing the Columbia River, from Priest Rapids Dam all the way to Rocky Reach. The goal was conservation—removing predatory species to protect vital salmon and steelhead runs—but the byproduct was invaluable: an intimate, boots-on-the-ground understanding of Washington’s most iconic fishery.
Encouraged by his wife to follow his true passion, Chad made the leap to guiding full time—and hasn’t looked back. Whether you're a seasoned fly angler or brand new to the sport, Chad’s trips are designed to meet you where you are. With his easygoing nature, wealth of knowledge, and love for teaching, Chad is all about creating relaxed, rewarding days on the water that you'll remember long after the last cast.
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Rapid Fire Guide Q & A
What’s the biggest fish you’ve caught?
22.5” Westslope Cutthroat Trout
Rapid Fire Guide Q & A
What’s the biggest fish you’ve caught?
22.5” Westslope Cutthroat Trout
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