Featured Guide: Capt. Joey McEvoy - Turning Passion into Purpose on Pennsylvania Waters
- The Fly Box LLC
- Jan 9, 2025
- 5 min read
I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Captain Joey McEvoy, an accomplished fly fishing guide based in Pennsylvania. Our conversation ranged from his earliest memories of fishing to his future ambitions in the world of guiding. Captain Joey’s enthusiasm and passion for fly fishing were evident throughout, and his insights offered a fascinating glimpse into the life of a dedicated angler and teacher. Here’s what he had to share:
The Path to Fly Fishing
Joey’s love for fishing began at an early age, inspired by his father’s interest in traditional fishing gear. He started exploring "every piece of fishing gear that [he had] in the basement", which led to the discovery of an old Pflueger 4 wt fly rod. This rod became his introduction to fly fishing, and by the age of 10, he was catching bluegills off the dock. His passion deepened in high school, where fishing trips with friends often replaced typical teenage pursuits and Joey said "some of the most important memories I have with a fly rod came from skipping class or bailing on prom to go get skunked by some bucket fish". These formative experiences taught him independence and ignited a lifelong connection to the sport.
It’s fascinating to think about how such humble beginnings—a dusty rod in a basement—can spark a lifelong passion. Captain Joey’s story is a reminder that sometimes, the tools and opportunities for discovering our passions are right in front of us.
From Memories to a Career
For Captain Joey, turning his hobby into a career was as much about timing as it was passion. As a young adult, he spent summers working on a boat giving tourist rides for a friend’s business, gaining valuable experience on the water. However, one summer presented a unique opportunity for change. “I found myself with no job, no girlfriend, no responsibilities,” he shared. Rather than staying idle, he and a close friend set off on a cross-country road trip, with plans to snowboard in Oregon and fly fish along the way.
The trip became a transformative experience. “We fly fished in almost every state we drove through,” Capt. Joey explained. Experiencing such diverse fisheries reinforced his love for the sport and planted the seed for a new direction in his life. By the time he returned to Pennsylvania, he knew guiding was his calling. “As soon as I got back to PA, I started dreaming up a business model for the following season,” he said.
This pivotal moment highlights how exploration and embracing the unknown can lead to life-changing decisions. Captain Joey’s journey from recreational angler to professional guide is a testament to how passion and opportunity can align to create a fulfilling career.
Guiding Pennsylvania’s Diverse Waters
Today, Capt. Joey runs a guiding business that caters to anglers of all skill levels. Beginners often start at Lake Harmony, “It’s a really good fishery for beginners,” he said, abundant with bass, crappie, and pickerel. For more seasoned anglers, his walk-and-wade trips on the Lehigh River and its tributaries offer a more intimate and challenging experience. “That’s a more purist experience,” he noted, emphasizing the connection between angler and fish.
The variety of options he offers extends to the Susquehanna River, where his jet-powered skiff provides access to unique spots.
Whether introducing newcomers to the basics or helping experienced anglers refine their skills, Capt. Joey ensures each trip is tailored to the client’s needs. “There’s something special about making those connections on the water,” he noted.
Sharing Knowledge and Crafting Memories
For Capt. Joey, guiding is about more than just catching fish. It’s an opportunity to share his knowledge and foster meaningful experiences for his clients. “I love it all. Even the frustrating bits,” he admitted, referencing the challenges of figuring out a hatch or dealing with equipment issues. His relaxed demeanor helps clients feel at ease, and he often reminds them, “We’re not curing cancer. There’s no reason to stress.”
One of his favorite memories involves a young girl who had no prior fishing experience. During an 11-hour trip, she managed to out-fish her entire group, catching 29 of the 35 fish landed. “They kept saying, ‘Damn, she’s so lucky,’ but I told them, ‘That’s not luck. She’s just out fishing you guys,’” he said with a smile. Stories like this highlight his ability to create memorable and rewarding experiences for everyone.
Creative Pursuits: Fly Tying and Rod Building
Capt. Joey’s dedication to the craft extends beyond guiding. He ties custom flies and builds rods tailored to the specific fisheries he guides on. “I’ve always been into making stuff,” he said, noting how his love for creativity drew him to fly tying. His guide patterns, like bucktail minnows and pheasant tails, are designed for efficiency and effectiveness, while his personal projects often involve more intricate designs.
Rod building started as a practical solution. “When I started guiding, I owned one fly rod,” he explained. Instead of purchasing expensive gear, he learned to build high-quality rods himself. “That was about five years ago, and probably 200 rods later,” he shared. His clients now frequently request custom rods after using them on trips, a testament to the quality of his work.
Looking Forward
The future holds exciting prospects for Capt. Joey. He plans to expand his guiding business by adding more boats and guides, making Pennsylvania’s waters even more accessible. “I’d love to start targeting pike and musky,” he said, eager to master these challenging species. Beyond fishing, he’s exploring opportunities in guided hunting, further diversifying his offerings.
His vision reflects his commitment to growth and innovation while maintaining the personal touch that defines his guiding style. “The journey is as important as the destination,” he said, a philosophy that resonates in every aspect of his work.
Book Your Adventure
For those eager to explore Pennsylvania’s diverse fly fishing opportunities, Captain Joey McEvoy offers an unparalleled guiding experience. You can book a trip through his website, captainjoesfishing.com, or reach out via Instagram at @captainjoesfishing. Whether you’re a beginner looking to cast your first line or an experienced angler seeking new challenges, Capt. Joe’s passion, expertise, and approachable style make him the perfect guide for your next adventure.
Did You Enjoy This Article? Casts That Care Brings You More Stories Like This—Highlighting Amazing Guides, Conservation Efforts, And The Best Of The Fly Fishing Community.
Subscribe Today For Exclusive Content, Insider Tips, And To Support Fly Fishing Charities With Every Subscription. Click Here To Join Now!
50% Of Your Subscription Fees Go To A Different Fly Fishing Charity Every Month!
This Month It Is Project Healing Waters
Never Sponsored, No Ads, Unique Quality Information
Comments