NorCal Fishing Guides
meet the Team
At NorCal Fishing Guides, we’re a group of passionate guides, all raised on the waters of Northern California. With decades of experience fishing here, we know these rivers and lakes inside and out. Join us and discover the difference that comes from fishing with those who truly understand the intricacies of our amazing fisheries.
Our Guides
Forrest Brizendine
Owner / Head Guide
I'm the owner and head guide of NorCal Fishing Guides. My love for fishing and the outdoors is what led me to become a guide. I’m hardworking, knowledgeable, and passionate about what I do.
As a NorCal native, I was introduced to the region's beautiful and abundant waterways by my father—and I’ve been hooked ever since. After more than 20 years of fishing these local waters, I pride myself on mastering a variety of fly fishing styles.
We offer lessons for the first-time angler and precise guidance for experienced anglers. We strive to provide our clients with a truly memorable fishing experience each and every day.
Come and see for yourself what Northern California fishing is all about!
Matt Mitchell
Head Guide
I was born and raised in Redding, California, and I've been guiding full-time since 2008. As a lifelong angler, I know the waters I fish intimately and love sharing my passion and knowledge with others.
I'm a patient instructor and work well with anglers of all skill levels, always aiming to make each trip both educational and enjoyable.
Most of my days are spent guiding the Trinity River for salmon and steelhead, as well as the Fall River, Pit River, McCloud River, Hat Creek, the Lower Sac, and a few of my favorite stillwaters for trout. I also enjoy chasing steelhead along the coastal waters of Northern California.
I’ll always work hard to accommodate your needs and make sure you leave the water a better angler than when you arrived.
Tom Philips
Guide
I’m a Redding native with 30 years of experience fishing the Redding area and the Sacramento River system. Whether I'm rowing a drift boat or walk-and-wade fishing on Hat Creek, I have the knowledge and experience to guide you on any fly fishing adventure Northern California has to offer.
With two seasons of guiding both fly fishing and gear on Alaska's Kasilof River, I’ve gained valuable experience chasing Steelhead, Rainbow Trout, and Salmon.
Neil Amundson
Guide
I was born in the far northwest corner of Northern California and cut my teeth on the Smith, Klamath, and Chetco Rivers, chasing Steelhead and Salmon. Fishing since I was just 3 years old, I now have over 45 years of experience under my belt.
Now residing in Redding, I spend my time guiding on the Sacramento, Klamath, and Smith Rivers, targeting Trout, Steelhead, and Salmon. My passion for both catching fish and teaching others is clear as soon as you hit the water with me. Whether it's fly fishing or gear fishing, I’ll keep your rod loaded and your net wet.
Shad Hopper
Guide
My name is Shad Hopper, and I grew up fishing the beautiful rivers and lakes of Northern California. It's always been my dream to become a fishing guide so I can share my knowledge and passion for fishing with others.
I fish all over Northern California for rainbow trout, steelhead, salmon, striped bass, brown trout, and Kokanee. The rivers I guide on include the Sacramento River, Trinity River, Smith River, and Eel River. I also fish Whiskeytown and Shasta Lake.
Let me share my 15 years of local knowledge and passion for fishing with you.
Our Boats
Perfectly Equipped for Every Fishing Adventure
Our fleet of boats is designed to ensure our clients are set up for success on a wide range of fisheries. Depending on the location and season, we use a combination of drift boats, rafts, and power boats. Many of our rivers require specialized equipment and expert rowing, and we make sure you have a safe, effective, and enjoyable day on the water.
