About Tone Trout Guiding
A Passion for Fly Fishing in Southern Oregon
Tone Trout Guiding was founded on a love of rivers, wild fish, and the joy of teaching others how to connect with both. Based in Southern Oregon, the business is led by Tonie, a dedicated fly fishing guide who has spent years exploring the Rogue River, Klamath Basin, and surrounding spring-fed waters. His mission is simple: provide an unforgettable experience where anglers learn, grow, and catch fish in some of the most beautiful places in the Pacific Northwest.
Guiding is more than just putting clients on fish. It is about creating a safe, welcoming environment where beginners feel confident picking up a rod for the first time, and where seasoned anglers can refine their techniques to target trophy trout and steelhead. Every trip with Tone Trout Guiding is designed to balance fun with education, so you leave the water a better angler than when you arrived.
Meet Your Guide, Tonie
Tonie’s journey into guiding began like many anglers — with countless hours spent chasing fish on his own. Over time, friends and family noticed not only his ability to find and land fish, but also his patience and clarity when explaining what worked. Those early experiences evolved into a professional calling.
Today, Tonie is known throughout the Rogue Valley as a skilled, approachable guide who takes pride in teaching fly fishing at every level. He thrives on the small moments, whether it’s helping a first-time caster make a forty-foot cast, or guiding an experienced angler through the subtle adjustments needed to hook a stubborn steelhead. His focus is always on the client’s success and comfort, which has earned him loyal repeat anglers who return season after season.
Teaching Philosophy
What sets Tone Trout Guiding apart is the teaching-first approach. Tonie believes fly fishing is most rewarding when you understand the “why” behind each cast, drift, and presentation. That’s why he tailors instruction to your needs:
Beginners
learn the fundamentals of casting, knots, line management, and safe fish handling.
Intermediate anglers
refine their skills in mending, reading water, and adapting techniques to changing conditions.
Advanced anglers
work on fine-tuning presentations, swing mechanics, and advanced strategies for trophy trout and steelhead.
Waters We Fish
Southern Oregon is a special place for fly fishing, offering diverse rivers and a long fishing season.
Rogue River
This river is famous for its steelhead runs and year-round trout fishing. From the explosive salmonfly hatch in late spring to the swing-worthy runs of summer and fall, the Rogue offers variety and excitement. It is also one of the best places for beginners to learn, thanks to its accessible boat and wade options.
Klamath Basin
Known for spring-fed creeks and rivers, the Basin is home to large rainbow trout and wild brown trout. These waters demand skillful casting, stealth, and patience, but the reward is unforgettable fish that test every part of your setup.
Safety and Conservation
Safety and respect for the resource are central to every trip. Life jackets and safety equipment are always on hand, and conditions are monitored closely to ensure clients are never put at risk. Tonie makes conservative calls when flows or weather make fishing unsafe, always prioritizing the well-being of his guests.
Equally important is the conservation of fish and rivers. Tone Trout Guiding practices responsible catch-and-release fishing with careful handling, barbless hooks when appropriate, and minimal fish exposure out of water. This ethic ensures that Southern Oregon’s rivers will continue to thrive for future generations of anglers.
What to Expect on a Trip
From the moment you book, Tonie provides clear communication. You’ll receive detailed instructions on what to bring, where to meet, and what species and tactics are most promising for the season. On the water, expect a mix of instruction, hands-on fishing, and plenty of encouragement.
Trips include all essential gear, with waders and boots available upon request. Full-day outings include a riverside lunch, while half-day trips provide beverages and snacks. Whether you’re on the Rogue River or exploring the Klamath Basin, every detail is handled so you can focus on fishing and learning.
Mark Tate
“I have never been fly fishing before. Needless to say I was nervous but Tonie made me feel so comfortable and I got a steelhead.”
Ray Fontenot
“My son and I were in town for a couple of days. We were referred to Tonie for fly fishing. Two days on the river, countless trout and a couple nice steelhead. Definitely will be coming back to fish with him.”
Micheal Vandierdonck
“Tone Trout has been my one and only guide since I moved to the Rogue Valley two years ago. We fish every other week year round. Tonie has helped me improve my skills a lot. He provides all the equipment and his expertise. He is fully ready to travel to any of the rivers and streams in the area. I highly recommend him.”
Connect With Tone Trout Guiding
If you’re ready to experience fly fishing in Southern Oregon, reach out today. Call
(541) 324-9918
or email
tonetrout@gmail.com to reserve your date. Trips run year-round, and early booking ensures you get the best windows for steelhead, trout, and seasonal hatches.
Tone Trout Guiding is here to help you discover the rivers, improve your skills, and create memories that last long after the day ends.
