About

Hi, I’m your guide, Derrik Kapalla.

I am originally from San Diego, where I spent over 20 years fishing the salt and getting up to the Sierra Nevada any chance I had. That early love for the water naturally grew into a lifelong passion for the outdoors and eventually sharing that passion through guiding. Today, I live in Fort Collins, Colorado, and spend my time guiding anglers across the beautiful waters of Colorado, Wyoming, and California.

For me, being a guide isn’t just about putting fish in the net (although that is an important component). It is about sharing the quiet, wild places that make the West so special. When I am not guiding, I am usually still outside, either hunting, fun fishing, or spending time with my wife and our dog.

In addition to guiding, I am also a licensed environmental geologist. As geologist and fishing guide, I see western rivers through a unique lens. While floating through scenic canyons, I love teaching my guests about the towering rock formations around us. Together, we will look at how geomorphology shapes the riverbed, creating the pools and riffles that trout call home. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you will learn to read the water by reading the rocks.

Whether you want to spend a quiet day wading a small stream or drift down a big river in a boat, my goal is to give you a relaxing, educational, and fun day on the water (and hopefully stick some big fish). I welcome all skill levels, from beginners holding a rod for the first time to experienced anglers looking for a local perspective.

Let’s get out there and enjoy the river.