This blog series features top fishing guides sharing their experiences, insights, and advice to help anglers improve their skills on the water. Each installment highlights a different guide, showcasing their expertise while preserving their unique voice and approach to the sport. This time around we caught up with Captain Jaime Rodriguez from JRod Angling Guide Service!
Captain Jaime Rodriguez - JRod Angling Guide Service
Fishing is more than just the catch, it's memories created on the water surrounded by God's Country. We welcome all anglers of all skill levels and encourage youth and new anglers to the sport of fishing. Simply put- Let's go fishing.
New to the Guide Fleet since May 2024 , being fully licensed and insured we specialize in Walleye fishing trips and will sprinkle some Steelhead fishing trips in as well. I have also gained a long list of Walleye Seminars speaking at numerous clubs, stores and at some of the biggest Sports Shows in the PNW. I love to share with fellow anglers and encourage everyone to take a kid fishing.
https://jrodangling.com/
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1. What inspired you to become a fishing guide, and how long have you been in the industry?
Very good question, it's a dynamic of reasons but I'd say the main reason would be the joy of seeing anglers catch fish -especially new anglers. I emphasize kids fishing which is another reason why I decided to guide. I started with youtube back in 2016 making fishing videos but have been fishing since a young age.
2. What's one key piece of advice you'd give to anglers looking to improve their success on the water?
Confidence is key- No matter what bait or presentation you are using- if you believe in the bait it will help you catch more fish.
3. What are your go-to lure types or presentations you use the most?
I love trolling, whether it's planer boards, crankbaits we love a good trolling presentation.
4. What's a memorable guiding experience that stands out in your career?
I opened up for business May 2024 and had some amazing experiences but my first guide trip is probably the most memorable. There was a lot of anticipation and jitters but it was a great trip.
5. What common mistake do you see anglers make, and how can they correct it?
One thing that I have noticed is the little things that make a big difference. Not threaded the worm correctly or not enough or to much line out when trolling. These little things actually can be the deciding factor on whether you catch fish or not.
6. What factors do you consider most important when planning a successful fishing trip (e.g., weather, water conditions)?
First is safety on my boat, the areas where we fish are known for high winds. But I have also rescheduled trips for water clarity and overall bad water conditions. The success of a fishing trip can be measured differently, it just depends on the main reason my customers booked. I always ask my customers what is your goal for this trip and I do my best to cater to that. Some say, big fish, others say numbers they want quantity and others just simply want to go out and fish. But a successful trip for me means, safety, smiles, some catch and release with enough fish for a fish fry.
7. For someone booking a guided trip for the first time, what should they expect and how can they prepare?
Educate, catch and release and take home enough fish for a fish fry because as we all know, walleyes are great table fare, in a nutshell.