I fish waters within 1½ hours of Pittsburgh, PA in all directions

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I fish waters within 1½ hours of Pittsburgh, PA in all directions

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Eric Bailey

Orvis-Endorsed Fly Fishing Guide


Phone icon724-554-0839 Email iconflyfishingswpa@gmail.com Link iconwww.flyfishingswpa.com/
Avella, PA

Item #3NCP0000

The Story

I am a lifelong resident of Southwestern Pennsylvania and have been fly fishing these waters for over 30 years. As my passion developed into an obsession, my focus has turned to teaching others this great sport. This is my full-time job, and any time outside of my family is devoted to learning and teaching fly fishing.

Southwestern Pennsylvania has stayed under the radar as an excellent smallmouth bass fishery and the chance to catch a true trophy-quality fish on any given day. While most of my fishing occurs within an hour and a half of Pittsburgh, I will also chase fish in other parts of the state, depending on water conditions and the client's location. That said, I cannot guarantee every day will be filled with high numbers of fish or a trophy, but I can guarantee that I will work tirelessly to ensure the very best day on the water with patient teaching and a positive attitude.

  • Smallmouth bass, trout, largemouth bass, musky, northern pike, carp & freshwater drum
  • Allegheny River system & tributaries, Youghiogheny River & Clarion River
  • Streamer, topwater, swim fly fishing, sight fishing & learn to fly fish day courses
  • Rates start at $365–$500
  • April–October: smallmouth; early spring–late fall: trout, musky & pike; mid-summer: carp, drum & largemouth

Orvis is pleased to offer our travel customers access to two valuable services: Global Rescue travel membership and IMG Signature Travel Insurance℠.

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I can arrange hotel accommodations in the area where you wish to fish.

Services Offered

Full-Service Drift Boat Float Trips:

  • Target species: Smallmouth bass, trout, pike, musky, carp & freshwater drum
  • Swim flies, streamers, topwater-fishing focused, but styles will vary based on conditions & ability
  • Float trips are usually around 8-10 hours
  • All of the latest & highest quality Orvis equipment provided as well as all terminal tackle & flies
  • Packed lunch, cold water & refreshments also provided

Introduction To Fly Fishing Wade Trips:

  • Target species: trout & largemouth bass
  • Great way to “shorten the learning curve” of fly fishing
  • 8 hours of instruction & fishing
  • First part of the day: learning knots, casting, landing fish, fly selection, basic fly fishing skills & much more
  • Second part of the day: on-stream fishing & instruction
  • Rods, reels & all other equipment provided as well as lunch & refreshments
  • Waders available for rent

Come join me on a float trip down one of Southwest Pennsylvania’s beautiful, scenic rivers. Experience outstanding fishing opportunities within an hour and a half of Pittsburgh, PA. Not nearly as publicized as some areas, Southwest PA has excellent smallmouth bass fishing, and the chances of catching a true trophy-sized fish are as good as anywhere else in the country.

See abundant wildlife, such as eagles, otters, all types of waterfowl, and deer, as you float down one of Pennsylvania’s famous freestone rivers. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and gorgeous scenery away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Maybe you are new to streamer fishing or haven’t had a chance to fish for the explosive bite of a topwater-fed smallmouth bass. Let me teach you these enjoyable and rewarding ways to catch fish on a fly rod. Learn new casting techniques, line management skills, and different ways to present the fly under a patient guide’s instruction. As always, safety is the main concern, and I have spent a great deal of time learning the water and developing skills on each river and section that I float to ensure a safe and positive experience.

Guided Fishing Day Rates (2025)

Full-Day Drift Boat or Raft Trips:

  • 8-10 hours long
  • All gear & tackle supplied
  • Packed lunch, water & refreshments
  • 1 or 2 anglers
  • $500

Introduction to Fly Fishing Course:

  • 8 hours of instruction & fishing
  • All gear & tackle supplied
  • Packed lunch, water & refreshments
  • Private stream fees included in price
  • $365 per person

(Waders can be rented for an additional $30 per day)

Can I bring my own equipment?

Yes, you can definitely bring your own equipment, but keep in mind that my top-of-the-line Orvis equipment is already rigged with the leaders and fly lines that work best for the style of fishing you will be doing that day.

Can a non-angler join me on my float trip?

Yes. Whether you are fishing, sightseeing, or just want to get some fresh air and relax, these trips are a great way to spend a day!

If my casting needs improvement, is this trip for me?

Yes. Everyone's casting can always use improvement, and trips will be designed for your particular ability. This can be an excellent way to hone your casting skills and learn some new ones.

How do I dress?

Dress accordingly to the weather in layers. It's a long day that usually starts cool and ends warmer. Waders without studs in early spring and late fall. Wet-wading shoes in summer, hat, and sunscreen.

What are the most important things I'll need for a day of fishing?

The 3 most important things needed for a day on the water with me are a good pair of polarized glasses, an open mind, and a positive attitude.

Can I keep any of the fish that I catch?

As a conservation-minded guide, I strictly practice catch and release. Most of these fish are stream-born and can be up to 10-15 years old. I let them go so others can enjoy catching them in the future.

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