Email Us | (888) 876-8818

Cutthroat Anglers Colorado Fly Fishing Shop and Guide Service

Meet Our Guides

Shane Smith

Shane is the shop’s cultural guru. If he’s not fishing the Colorado River you most likely will not be able to contact Shane because he is knee deep in an un-mapped region of the world. Shane’s affable personality is the stuff of legends, which helps explain his devoted repeat clientele, and his ability to meld into any culture.

Guiding is a means to an end for Shane. If he could find a way to support his travel adventures, he would guide for free. Shane loves to fish off the beaten path in search of untapped fisheries. During the winter, he is constantly exploring for virgin saltwater flats holding double-digit weight bonefish. We also believe tailing Permit make him cry like a baby. On a recent adventure to Costa Rica, Shane experienced the wonders of blue water fly fishing and caught his first sailfish on fly – eureka!

Shane and Client Carol Devinny“This is my eighth year of fishing and Shane was definitely the best guide I have had. Not only was Shane a supportive guide, but he made the drive up and back fun. I find that I fish better when I feel more comfortable with a guide. Our "one-liners" became as much of a challenge as bringing in the fish.

Your shop is first class and I just wish I had the opportunity to visit more than two days a year. I wish you continued success and tell those rainbows, "I will be back." ”

- Carol DeVinny

Shane is a local legend on the upper Colorado River. To prove it, he is on a first name basis with the resident trout. At times, Shane seems to have an insight into the wants and needs of the trout that defies conventional wisdom. Its as if water sprites and mermaids are whispering to him telling him what fly to use. The result – his clients catch fish while other anglers stand in awe.

While he may have recently retired the Silver Queen (a 1981 Subura Wagon – also a local celebrity and client favorite) to the Elysian Fields, we are proud to say his internal compass still points toward the Colorado River.

Shane Smith's Quick Facts

Originally From:
Louisville, KY
Favorite Local Fishing Spot:
The Colorado River
Favorite Place on Earth:
Any saltwater flat with a falling tide
Most Used Rod, Reel & Line:
Sage XP 5-weight, Galvan OB-2, SA Trout Taper WF5F
Movie Quote:
“Its only a flesh wound” – John Cleese in The Holy Grail
Destinations Fished:
Belize, Honduras, The Rockies, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Russia, Panama
< Return to Guide Bios Introduction