Fly Fishing Guide - Colby Olson
Meet Your Guide: Colby Olson
Colby Olson — or "Son of Ol" as we've come to call him — has been guiding and working in the fly shop since 2019, helping clients on the water and in store. His background wasn't always in fly fishing; he spent years in the technology industry before an epiphany led him to something far more meaningful. Since picking up the rod, Colby has become one of Portland's most versatile and sought-after fly fishing guides, targeting trout, steelhead, and smallmouth bass across Oregon's finest rivers.
When asked what he loves about fly fishing, Colby says it best:
"It's all about cutting out the daily monotony and focusing on the natural world right in front of you. Fly fishing requires an understanding of so many things — bugs, gear, water, and quarry. I can't imagine life without it. My current passion involves teaching and showing others my love for the sport and the fish. We chase trout, steelhead, and bass throughout the year."
Colby has been guiding since 2021 and brings a deep technical curiosity to every trip. He loves chasing trout on dry flies, swinging flies for steelhead, and stripping large streamers for smallmouth bass. He nerds out on entomology and casting mechanics — and while catching fish is always the goal, maximizing an angler's abilities and delivering a great experience on the water trumps all.
Colby has also stepped into the role of Fly Shop Manager helping NWFFO run more efficiently as well as ensuring inventory is kept at healthy levels.
Colby is also a proud Hatch Reels Pro Team member and a Sage Elite Pro.
Colby's Guiding Program
| Season | Species | Gear | Boat | Rivers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec – Apr | Winter Steelhead | Spey rods, tube flies, sink tips | Raft | Metro & coastal options |
| Apr – Sep | Smallmouth Bass | Single hand, 6–8wt rods | Jet boat | Willamette River |
| May – Jun | Trout | Single hand, 4–5wt | Koffler drift boat | Deschutes & McKenzie |
| Aug – Nov | Summer Steelhead | Spey rods, dry lines, skaters & Skagit | Drift boat or raft | Deschutes & several metro options |
* Colby also offers casting lessons for both single-hand and two-handed (Spey) rods. Contact the shop to schedule.
Colby's Boats
- 2016 G3 1860 Jet Boat
- OSG Drifter 13 Raft
- 1998 Koffler Drift Boat
Beyond the River
When he's not on the water, Colby enjoys cooking and BBQ, playing golf, camping, and sleeping — in no particular order of priority.
Book a trip with Colby or learn more: