A World Class Fishing Experience

I came to Copper John's Resort in desperate need of rest and rejuvenation with a deep longing to reconnect with God, nature, and the person I used to be. Since childhood I had always loved camping in the forest on the water's edge.

Evenings at the resort brought my childhood memories back to life with pleasant campfire songs on the neighbor's ukulele and guitar, roasted marshmallows, and the solace of gazing up at the stars. I had found my home away from home, a refuge from all the demands and expectations of city life.

Early in the mornings, a cool mist blankets the quiet rhythms of the White River creating a palpable anticipation along the banks of Copper John's Resort with an invitation to adventure in the day ahead. I've heard that anglers come from all over the world year after year to fish for trout in these legendary waters. Every time I venture out on the river, I understand why. It's unspoiled and full of life!

From my paddle board, I was captivated by the calls of great blue heron, the sight of bald eagles soaring from the bluffs, and trout swimming gracefully through vivid patches of aquatic greenery. I had plenty to look forward to just taking pictures each day, but I had always wanted to try trout fishing so I referred to the Fishing Guide Directory on Copper John's website.

After a few phone calls, I decided to trust my first trout fishing adventure to Kyle from Catching Smiles and I'm so glad I did! He provided concierge level service even picking me up in a boat at the resort. The boat was in great condition, spacious and comfortable with plenty of room to accommodate a small group or a family with kids. My fishing guide was punctual and provided everything we needed for the trip. I didn't have to worry about anything except ordering a fishing license and trout permit, which is easily obtainable the same day through the AGFC website.

Kyle was also friendly and seemed to really enjoy making sure I had fun. He was patient and kind instructing me how to properly bait a hook, why it's important to use such a tiny hook when trout fishing so as not to harm the fish, and how to angle the pole and cast the line gently enticing the trout to take the bait. He knew just how to maneuver the boat up and down the river to get the best results. The guide taught me how to feel the difference between the tug of a trout and the tug of greenery or rocks. Reeling in my first brown trout made me feel so accomplished. Kyle helped me remove it from the hook taking extra care for the fish and releasing it back to freedom.

Something else that I've come to appreciate as I spend more time on the White River is the camaraderie among the fishing guides in the area. It's quite common for the guides to stop their boats for a little while so their patrons can visit and compare stories fostering a sense of community and possibly cultivating relationships that could last a lifetime. The fishing guides I've met here in the Twin Lakes area really love sharing the joys of fishing every chance they get. It's more than a job for them, it's a way of life. The hospitality here is warm and genuine.

Every time I come back to Copper John's I feel like I'm escaping to a hidden paradise.