Being my 1st guided trip to fly-fishing waters around Mammoth Lakes, I had a great teacher in Joe Contaldi. I first learned about Joe during his many chalk talks at the Fly Fishing Shows over the years. Joe is a most patient instructor as my casting technique leaves a lot to be desired and my presentations/hooksets need a lot of work as well. His expert instruction put me onto those pesky, piscine residents of the Upper Owens. While not being (too) distracted by the eastern Sierra views around me, I had a number of hookups (and - ahem - a few "conservation releases"), a bunch of grabs, and a ton of looks. I very much enjoyed my day with Joe and look forward to his guided trips to Hot Creek and Lake Crowley next season. read more