The Experience

Your Day on the Water

Big River Fly Fishing is a guide service committed to providing a quality experience on the Kankakee River. You'll spend your trip on a Boulder Boat Works drift boat. Fishing the river from this fly fishing specific craft offers comfortable access to long stretches of river and creates a stealth factor that maximizes top water potential and fishing shots in general.

You'll primarily target smallmouth bass, although the river holds healthy populations of walleye, sauger, northern pike, gar, channel catfish, rock bass, drum, carp and other rough fish. Of the nearly 30 miles that I guide, 11 are largely undeveloped, passing through the Kankakee River State Park. Bald eagle, osprey, beaver, white-tail deer and other wildlife are often sighted in this area.

                                                                             
  • Big River Fly Fishing endorses catch-and-release angling in order to sustain a healthy fishery.
  • All trips accommodate up to two anglers. Pricing is the same for one or two anglers.
  • Day use of premium, high performance gear is included in the cost of your trip. Premium Sage fly rods, Waterworks/Lamson reels and Rio Fly lines are among my guiding equipment. And, if you prefer, you may also bring your own gear.
  • Weather appropriate clothing, a hat, polarized sunglasses and an Illinois fishing license are the only things you'll need to bring. Waders are optional.
  • Follow this link to purchase an Illinois fishing license online. And, I suggest you bring your camera to record your memories.
  • While fishing tends to be a priority, meals are prepared with fresh, quality ingredients. Lunch is provided on full day trips.
  • It is YOUR day on the water. Allow Big River Fly Fishing to customize your trip by telling me what you hope to get out of the experience.


For the Novice Angler

I have 25 years of fly fishing instruction under my belt. Take advantage of it! Fly casting is a central part of the sport and can make for really successful day on the river. I have a progressive method of teaching that will familiarize you with the fundamentals and physics of fly casting. And because fly fishing is largely a sport of basic observation, you'll learn to identify patterns and features of the river, giving you a skill set you can take anywhere.

For the Seasoned Angler

Allow me to show you my home water, a river that I know intimately. Whether you are looking to sharpen your casting skills, learn the subtleties of smallmouth fishing or simply decompress for a day, I'm here to help. From one angler to another, I find great value in fishing with others. I truly believe this to be a sport where learning does not end.

Half Day Trip $400

This is a great way to connect with the river and also accommodate a busy schedule.

  • Float approximately four hours and up to five river miles
  • Time of day will depend on optimal fishing for the season and your schedule
  • Soft drinks and gear provided
  • Maximum of two anglers
  • Flies provided


Full Day Trip $500

Escape for the day and immerse yourself in the scenery and flow of the river.

  • Float approximately eight hours and 11 river miles
  • Launch time will vary depending on the time of year and your schedule
  • Lunch, soft drinks and gear are provided
  • Maximum of two anglers
  • All flies provided
  • Includes shuttle service


Join me on the river. Email willwinans@bigriverfly.com today to book your trip.






$150 deposit is required to hold your reservation. Balance is collected at the end of your trip. Deposits are non-refundable. Trips can be rescheduled to an open date with no less than 30 days notice. In the event that conditions warrant a cancellation, I will work with you to reschedule our trip together. Conditions cancellations are at the discretion of Big River Fly Fishing.

Deposit can be paid by check made out to Big River Fly Fishing and mailed to the address provided by email. I can also take a card number over the phone or email a Square invoice. There is a processing fee for credit card transactions.