Guide Profile: Fly Fishing Puget Sound with Keith Robbins

Keith Robbins is a guide on the world-famous waters of Puget Sound in Washington. A Sage Elite Pro, Robbins is also a pro for RIO Products, Simms, and Grady White Boats among others. Robbins recently took the time to interview with The Venturing Angler:

Why do you guide where you do?

Because it’s in my blood. I was born and raised fishing Puget Sound. I love being on the water and showing others a beautiful piece of the world.

What is your favorite fish species?

Salmon, sea run cutthroat trout, redfish, and tarpon

What is your favorite thing about guiding?

Showing others a wonderful place on the globe and introducing them to all of the Puget Sound species while being paid to do what I love most.

What is the most memorable trip you’ve guided and why?

The most memorable was also the most embarrassing. While running in the super thick fog I ran aground with the Manager of The Seattle Mariners, Don Wakamatsu. While aground in the fog we decided to walk up the beach and fish while waiting for the tide to rise. While fishing from the beach Don hooked and landed the largest Chinook salmon on fly in Puget Sound and he made it back in time for the game.

What is the funniest thing you’ve experienced while guiding?

I once had a guest drop a rod overboard with a very large Salmon attached. Another guest reeled up only to find he caught the dropped rod’s line. He reeled it in and the salmon was still attached. That King salmon was the largest of the day!

What makes your guide service great?

Using the best gear, fishing out of the best and most comfortable boat for fishing Puget Sound, and flexible start times upon request.

If you had only one day off all year, where would you fish and what fish would you target?

I would fish for tarpon in Cuba.