Cliff grew up in Bergenfield, NJ where, from the age of 5, he fished for anything he could. He taught himself to fly fish at age 12 and to tie flies shortly thereafter. That early obsession evolved into a lifelong passion—flyfishing for wild trout. He loved fishing the Beaverkill and Delaware River system and began fishing the Greater Yellowstone area in 1985. He started spending summers and guiding in Island Park in 1987 and has been with Three Rivers since 1989.

Cliff’s emphasis has always been on dry fly fishing. “There’s nothing like actually seeing the fish eat the fly. Because Three Rivers is licensed on a wide array of water we have the ability to provide excellent dry fly fishing opportunities throughout the season.” He’s also a patient instructor who enjoys teaching beginners as well as sharing the entire experience. “I’ve always enjoyed teaching others what I’ve learned about flyfishing. I get a great deal of satisfaction from helping someone connect with flyfishing or up their game. That connection extends to the entire experience, not just catching fish. There’s so much to appreciate about being in the places trout live. Insects, birds, animals, flowers, trees, scenery are all part of the experience.”

Cliff moved to Island Park in 1991 where he lives with his wife Lisa. In addition to guiding Cliff and Lisa tie flies professionally, raise English Setters, and travel extensively to hunt and fish every fall and winter.