Reff Water Fly Fishing originated from Nik Reff's deep passion for the outdoors. After years working in an office, Nik decided to turn his enthusiasm into a career. Reff Water Fly Fishing is a well-established service, with Nik beginning his journey as a full-time guide by attending Sweet Water Travel’s guide school in Big Timber, MT. There, he enhanced his skills in rowing drift boats and operating jet boats on the Yellowstone River, where he caught cutthroat, brown, and rainbow trout. 

With over a decade of experience fishing the Salmon River and a strong passion for Great Lakes salmon and steelhead, Nik has been fly fishing in both fresh and saltwater for nearly 20 years, starting with trout streams in Central and Upstate NY. His fly fishing adventures have taken him to various locations in and out of the U.S., including Montana, Wyoming, Massachusetts, the Florida Keys, and Belize, where he has pursued trophy trout, bonefish, stripers, tarpon, and permit.

 Nik considers himself an advanced fly angler, proficient in single-handed fly fishing techniques for trout, salmon, and steelhead, and is also dedicated to bass fishing with both conventional and fly methods. As a Douglas Outdoors and Cheeky Fly Fishing Pro, and a fully licensed and insured NYS Guide, he looks forward to guiding clients and hopes they choose Reff Water Fly Fishing for their next trip.

For guided fishing trips, Nik provides rods and reels, terminal tackle, flies, and beverages, including hot drinks and small propane heaters on colder days. Anglers are welcome to bring their own rods and reels if preferred. Clients need to bring their own waders and wading boots (neoprene recommended for late fall to early spring, with studs or korkers required), and lunch. Recommended clothing includes a rain jacket or wading jacket, polarized sunglasses to reduce glare, and proper layering for cold weather. A wading staff is also advised.

Clients should remember to purchase their NYS fishing license either the day before or on the morning of the trip, as proof of license will be required before launching or walking to the river. Licenses can be purchased at local fly shops or through the NYS DEC website.

For safety reasons, alcohol is prohibited while fishing. Discounts of 10% are available for active military, reservists, retired military, first responders, and educators with proof of eligibility. Ready for your adventure? Book your trip now by emailing Nik directly!