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Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Michigan Fly Fishing Guide Services : Hawkins Outfitters Guide Service | Michigan Fly Fishing
Average Customer Rating:
Rating Snapshot (39 reviews)
5 stars
39
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
39 of 39(100%)customers would recommend this to a friend.
Customer Reviews for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Review 1 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
04/20/2013 Streamer School,
April 21, 2013
By: Passion4BigBrownTrout
from Ludington, MI, USA
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on knowledge of the sport or activity::
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on his/her ability to instruct and communicate::
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on overall enthusiasm and personality::
5
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5
Additional Thoughts:Jon Ray is one of the finest fly fishing guides in West Mi
"I attended the 04/20/2013 Streamer School hosted by Chuck Hawkins and Jon Ray. What a great learning experience. A very comfortable atmosphere where students were encouraged to ask questions and contribute to the conversations. Valuable tips on fly tying, presentation of flies and casting instruction. The discussion of trout behavior was very interesting. An emphasis was placed on river etiquette. Afternoon on the river applying the mornings lessons was very well done. Those who own boats can learn about boat handling also.
I expected an informative class but my expectations were exceeded.
My Thanks to Chuck,Jon and Staff for an outstanding experience."
I expected an informative class but my expectations were exceeded.
My Thanks to Chuck,Jon and Staff for an outstanding experience."
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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Review 2 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
Best in the mid west!,
January 7, 2013
By: Windknottoobad
from Okemos, Meridian Charter Township, MI, USA
Billing / Reservation:
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on knowledge of the sport or activity::
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on his/her ability to instruct and communicate::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on overall enthusiasm and personality::
5
/
5
Reviewer Images
(click to see full-size image)
Additional Thoughts:They have a way of making guests feel like old friends
"My realationship with Hawkins Outfitters began at a stream side
seminar. I was so impressed with Jon's comfortable teaching style and
knowledge I knew I needed to spend more time fishing with him. The
service is impecable: boats, gear, food, conversation, even the
perfect grip and grin photo before a safe release. Each of my
daughters has learned to fly fish, and they have fallen in love with
the sport in large part due to the great experience and fun they have
had on the water with Jon and Ed. There is no better way to introduce
kids to fishing then getting them on big fish consistently! I
enthusiastically endorse Hawkins Outfitters to all my fishing friends."
seminar. I was so impressed with Jon's comfortable teaching style and
knowledge I knew I needed to spend more time fishing with him. The
service is impecable: boats, gear, food, conversation, even the
perfect grip and grin photo before a safe release. Each of my
daughters has learned to fly fish, and they have fallen in love with
the sport in large part due to the great experience and fun they have
had on the water with Jon and Ed. There is no better way to introduce
kids to fishing then getting them on big fish consistently! I
enthusiastically endorse Hawkins Outfitters to all my fishing friends."
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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Review 3 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
Friendship and Fly Fishing,
January 6, 2013
By: ApacheMike
from Traverse City, MI, USA
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on knowledge of the sport or activity::
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on his/her ability to instruct and communicate::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on overall enthusiasm and personality::
5
/
5
"How do thank a friend for sharing his knowledge and secrets of such a beautiful sport that is fly fishing. Chuck has been my mentor for 20 years now, together we have shared the joys and wonders that flow through the rivers of Northern Michigan. He has taught my wife, my brother,my nephews and my friends the joys of fishing with his vast knowledge and humor. He has touched my family in so many positive ways. I have nothing but the highest respect for Chuck and his guides. I can't wait for our next trip on the river, I know it will be memorable."
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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Review 4 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
Always a Great Experience,
January 4, 2013
By: JJHO
from SE Michigan
Billing / Reservation:
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on knowledge of the sport or activity::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on his/her ability to instruct and communicate::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on overall enthusiasm and personality::
5
/
5
Additional Thoughts:Fun, an a great fisherman!
"I have been fishing with Hawkins guides for the last 8-10 yrs. Whether it is hosting a group of customers, or just a day of fishing with a buddy, these guys have never failed to deliver a quality experience. Ed McCoy is my main guide,and is always helpful to arrange other guides if our group grows.
Hawkins guides are respectful of their clients, respectful of the rivers, and respectful of the fish. Simply the Best"
Hawkins guides are respectful of their clients, respectful of the rivers, and respectful of the fish. Simply the Best"
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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Review 5 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
Part of the Family,
December 28, 2012
By: sidewinder
from Ann Arbor, MI, USA
Billing / Reservation:
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on knowledge of the sport or activity::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on his/her ability to instruct and communicate::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on overall enthusiasm and personality::
5
/
5
Additional Thoughts:most knowlegable fisherman I know
"I can't think of anyone else I would rather fish with. I have been fishing with Hawkins for at least the last 15 years. Jon Ray has been taking me out on my birthday trip in May for the last eight years. I consider Jon a friend and look forward to a new experience every year. Steelhead, Trout, Smallmouth and Northern... Jon always gets me to the fish. Hawkins Outfitters is the best anywhere."
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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Review 6 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
Best Ever, Steelhead Mania,
December 26, 2012
By: benjo
from Traverse City, MI, USA
Billing / Reservation:
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on knowledge of the sport or activity::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on his/her ability to instruct and communicate::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on overall enthusiasm and personality::
5
/
5
Additional Thoughts:none
"Fishing with any Guide of Hawkins Outfitters is Second to none. They always seem to get me and any of my guests on the fish making for a more than memorable day. From beginning anglers to advanced casters they always offer insight to improve and continue technique. I have been fishing with Chuck and his guides for 2 years now, and basically I enjoy, not only fishing, but life more!"
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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Review 7 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
Hawkins guides are passionate anglers,
December 25, 2012
By: JTmiami
from Royal Oak, MI, USA
Billing / Reservation:
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on knowledge of the sport or activity::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on his/her ability to instruct and communicate::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on overall enthusiasm and personality::
5
/
5
"Want to catch fish, learn new techniques from patient guides and enjoy good conversation....then Hawkins Outfitters is a MUST if you are flyfishing in northern Michigan.
I have been fortunate enough to fish in 4 countries and 14 states this year but on the whole, my experiences with Hawk and his team have been the most productive and satisfying.
The guides have always been timely, the boats clean and well maintained, the equipment state of the art and each trip has been planned to meet my fishing goals. Whether its trout, steelhead, salmon or smallmouth, these guys are reliable and know how to fish.
Lastly, Hawkins has successfully introduced my wife and son to flyfishing in a way that I have been unable to do. I strongly recommend Hawkins Outfitters!
Cheers & Fish On"
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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Review 8 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
the best in Michigan !,
December 25, 2012
By: JoeBo
from Bloomfield Hills, MI, USA
Billing / Reservation:
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on knowledge of the sport or activity::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on his/her ability to instruct and communicate::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on overall enthusiasm and personality::
5
/
5
Reviewer Images
(click to see full-size image)
"I have been fishing with Hawkins Outfitters for about 5 years now. Although I did try other guides once or twice, nothing compares to Chuck and his team. You simply know what you get - service on highest level possible, endless tips, tricks and patients. I have also fished once with one of Chuck’s guides, Jon Ray. Same top notch fishing experience!
This year I had an old friend from Germany fly over to join me on the Hawkins Garden River trip - a long way to travel for 3 days fishing; but, I knew it would be worth it. And boy, did we have a great time. Chuck paid a lot of attention to my buddy who fly fished for salmon and steelhead the first time but he loved it and had the time of his life.
For me there is only one outfitter going fly fishing ‘Up North’ in Michigan: Hawkins Outfitters !"
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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Review 9 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
Top notch outfit,
December 23, 2012
By: LyonsT
from Brighton, MI, USA
Billing / Reservation:
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on knowledge of the sport or activity::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on his/her ability to instruct and communicate::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on overall enthusiasm and personality::
5
/
5
Reviewer Images
(click to see full-size image)
Additional Thoughts:The best guide in Northern Michigan
"I started fishing with Hawkins about 5 years ago. I remember, my first trip was a winter steelhead day, at the time, we had single digit temperatures, high winds and about 7 inches of snow came that day. With sever conditions, the staff at Hawkins where very accommodating, and made my fist steelhead experience one I will never forget.
The knowledge base of the guide staff is very diverse, each member of the team brings there own expertise and style to the fly fishing industry. The fly fishing schools they put on are very throw, ranging from beginner to advance on dry fly, to steelhead, entomology, and casting techniques helping everyone to become a better angler."
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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Review 10 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
Repeat offender,
December 23, 2012
By: matukajenn
Billing / Reservation:
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on knowledge of the sport or activity::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on his/her ability to instruct and communicate::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on overall enthusiasm and personality::
5
/
5
"I've been fishing with Hawkins for about 10 years now. I normally fish with them 3 times a year, and on every outing, I receive the same high-quality service I've always received. The guides all push themselves to develop new techniques, new flies, and to learn new waters....they don't allow themselves to stay in the same, monotonous groove day in and day out. They provide excellent instruction to pull you out of that same monotonous groove too, if you want to step-up your skills."
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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Review 11 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
Hooked!,
December 22, 2012
By: JESEID
from Franklin,MI,USA
Billing / Reservation:
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on knowledge of the sport or activity::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on his/her ability to instruct and communicate::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on overall enthusiasm and personality::
5
/
5
Reviewer Images
(click to see full-size image)
Additional Thoughts:The best I have fished with.
"I was introduced to Hawkins 12 years ago when I heard Chuck talk to a TU group about teaching kids to fish. I wanted to start my son (5 years old at the time)out with a guide who could teach. I figured anyone who would take the time to drive 4-5 hours to talk about that topic was the right one for me and my son. When I booked my trip, I had the distinct pleasure of fishing with Captain Jon Ray, who was so attentive to my son and my father who also came along, that I have not fished with anyone since(unless in a foreign land). I book 6- 10 trips a year with JR and have traveled with him and to Argentina and Alaska, and with Chuck in Canada and UP of Michigan. He and all the Hawkins guides have been patient, never critical of the varying skills we all possess. They know the water and are conscious of the safety of the angler and the proper handling of fish. Respectful of the environment is an understatement. I must say that a few hours fishing with JR every month or so does wonders for my psyche - I have become a better fisherman because of the instruction in casting, presentation,playing and releasing fish.I have caught some amazing fish on my excursions with Hawkins. JR's photography is top notch and magazine worthy and I always look forward to seeing the pics after a trip.Besides those factors, JR knows how to connect with client - affable, and agreeable. If one word could sum up the Hawkins experience, it might be "hooked"!!"
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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Review 12 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
Best Experience Ever says too little,
December 22, 2012
By: WatercolorFFko
from Traverse City, MI
Billing / Reservation:
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on knowledge of the sport or activity::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on his/her ability to instruct and communicate::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on overall enthusiasm and personality::
5
/
5
Additional Thoughts:Great guys; knowledgable and patient teachers
"I moved to N Michigan and had the idea that I wanted to learn how to fly fish. By some sheer dumb luck, I fell into the hands of Hawkins outfitters. Over the course of the last few years the patient guides of this outfitter have built up my skills so that when I go elsewhere I can consistently catch fish even when others at a lodge are struggling. It is also "elsewhere" that I've realized how lucky I was to have the guides of Hawkins be my first mentors. They are all patient hardworking and kind. I've had the pleasure of fishing and learning from three of them over the years. We all come to fly fishing with different goals skills and physical capacities and these guys always take that into account which cannot be said everywhere. There have been moments when I've travelled to fish and wondered why was I doing this because I had better opportunities and the best outfitters in the world in my back yard! Great work and thanks guys!"
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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Review 13 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
Years of experience,
December 22, 2012
By: fishdoctor
from canton, ohio
Billing / Reservation:
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on knowledge of the sport or activity::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on his/her ability to instruct and communicate::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on overall enthusiasm and personality::
5
/
5
Reviewer Images
(click to see full-size image)
Additional Thoughts:He is the fish whisperer
"Enthusiastic, motivated,polite,
honest, knowledgeable guides who always
go the extra mile to make one's day on the river rewarding.
Guiding is a tough competitive business and only those with the patience of Job and and a cornucopia of both phsyical and mental skills survive. Chuck Hawkins has assembled a team of guides who consistently rank at the top of the
list."
honest, knowledgeable guides who always
go the extra mile to make one's day on the river rewarding.
Guiding is a tough competitive business and only those with the patience of Job and and a cornucopia of both phsyical and mental skills survive. Chuck Hawkins has assembled a team of guides who consistently rank at the top of the
list."
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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Review 14 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
repeat customer,
December 21, 2012
By: midwestFF
from Michigan
Billing / Reservation:
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on knowledge of the sport or activity::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on his/her ability to instruct and communicate::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on overall enthusiasm and personality::
5
/
5
"I was introduced to Hawkins Outfitters about 15 years ago during an on-stream workshop for and have been fishing with them ever since. There are many reasons for my loyalty and I’m always happy to share my enthusiasm and recommendations when asked, so here is my two cents.
I’ve fished with many fly fishing guides but currently ALL of my repeat business remains with just two local outfitters in Michigan (the second on a watershed that Hawkins doesn’t operate on). Hawkins guides are knowledgeable of gear, hatches, fish lies, water and weather conditions, as well as their clients’ abilities. The guides always make a delicious lunch but also remember little details about my personal preferences – like coffee on cold mornings when fishing for steelhead, or salty snacks with lunch, or just ‘half’ of a sumptuous homemade brownie for dessert. They remember which Orvis rods I prefer and sense when I’d love to try out a new line or reel or sink tip.
I’ve introduced MANY new anglers to the Hawkins group, primarily because one of their strengths is teaching. They are patient but anxious to share their expertise. They are especially good with kids and women. They understand that the purpose of the trip is to catch fish with a fly rod, but that the journey is what will be remembered most. Was the experience FUN? The answer better be yes with Hawkins or as a team they understand that the trip was a failure.
I know a lot of people that fly fish and the large majority of them have never fished with a guide. My guess is that they have heard horror stories of guides that were just not worth the big money. I always speak up and let people know of the great experiences that I have had fishing with Hawkins Outfitters. Of course, the pictures of these outings speak for themselves! I encourage one and all to fish with Hawk and Company!!"
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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Review 15 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
Swinging for the fences,
December 20, 2012
By: BAflyfisherman
from Midland, MI, USA
Billing / Reservation:
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on knowledge of the sport or activity::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on his/her ability to instruct and communicate::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on overall enthusiasm and personality::
5
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5
"Hawkins Outfitters provides the complete range of services for every client. I started fishing with Chuck Hawkins as a fly fishing novice a few years ago. He is a certified casting instructor, and helped me reach the next level of casting so I can get the flies where they need to be in the rivers in Michigan. I have also learned a great deal about fly patterns, fishing techniques, and respect for the watershed. Last year, we hooked a number of fish during the spring trout season on both dry flies and streamers, but this year I have already booked a few days to catch the "big one". I know that Hawkins Outfitters can help me catch that trophy of a lifetime."
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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Review 16 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
My forearms hurt,
December 19, 2012
By: Globalfly
"I thoroughly enjoyed the day in a well equipped river boat - with heater! Our guide, Kristian, provided us with the best of positions on the river, and coached us through the learning curve of hooking up Kings. My son learned quickly and landed the first two monsters, after which I was pleased to focus a little more intently. We conservatively hooked up on 30 fish... yes, some got away! Pure fun to the point where my forearms hurt from power tugging 10 to 20 pound lunkers against the current. Sincerely, one of the best fishing outings I've ever had fishing in 45 years. I highly recommend Hawkins, and booked for next years season. Unquestionably a world class experience."
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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Review 17 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
Chuck is the best,
December 19, 2012
By: rrtay
from Frankfort, MI
Billing / Reservation:
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on knowledge of the sport or activity::
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on his/her ability to instruct and communicate::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on overall enthusiasm and personality::
5
/
5
"Fishing with Chuck is always fun - and I've been doing it for over 20 years. He is so encouraging and helpful, never making you feel bad for a mistake. A great teacher, whether you are new or an old pro. I'd give him a 100% endorsement!"
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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Review 18 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
Hawkins Outfitters - Great People,
December 19, 2012
By: Caddis530
from Grand Blanc, MI 48439, USA
Billing / Reservation:
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on knowledge of the sport or activity::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on his/her ability to instruct and communicate::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on overall enthusiasm and personality::
5
/
5
Reviewer Images
(click to see full-size image)
Additional Thoughts:Great Guide, I've fiished with him for 6-7 years
"Hawkins Outfitters is a great guide service with a great staff! I've fished with Kristian for several years all over Colorado and Michigan. After many years of fly fishing for steelhead I learned two new technique's that greatly enhanced my steelhead fishing experience and provide me with an alternatice to the "chuck and duck". Thanks Hawkins Outfitters!"
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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Review 19 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
Best of the Best,
December 19, 2012
By: Malleo
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on knowledge of the sport or activity::
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on his/her ability to instruct and communicate::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on overall enthusiasm and personality::
5
/
5
"I have used fishing guides all over the US, Canada and Alaska, Chuck Hawkins is the best of the best. Chuck is very professional with his clients and exceeds all my expectations while on a fishing trip. He loves to teach people how to fish, because of that I have improved my skills. Besides being a fun person to spend the day with, Chuck has a fishing instinct that many don't. On a tough fishing day we will hook fish while most other boats have poor luck. I have fished with Chuck for 17 years and have already booked my trips for next year."
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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Review 20 for Fishing Guide - MI - Chuck Hawkins
Overall Rating:
Great,
December 18, 2012
By: mickeyred
from Petoskey, MI, USA
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on knowledge of the sport or activity::
5
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5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on his/her ability to instruct and communicate::
5
/
5
Please Rate your Guide/Instructor/Host on overall enthusiasm and personality::
5
/
5
"I am a seasoned fly fisherman and I always take a friend who lacks experience. Yet, Ed McCoy makes the outing great for both of us and he does so with calm, friendly conversation and advice. He's Great! and he grills a mean steak. Mike H"
Would you recommend this experience or trip to a friend? Yes
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