Earl James began his guide career at Bud Lilly's Trout Shop in 2000, and has been a key member of the Big Sky Anglers guide staff since we were founded in 2004.   Before jumping into his guiding career, Earl wore many many hats, both professional and recreational.  This guy is as unique and multi-dimensional an angler as he is when he’s off the water, making a fishing outing with him a fascinating and enjoyable experience.    

Earl has traveled extensively throughout South America searching for large trout and delicious food, sailed his boat around Central America and the Bahamas, and made tens of thousands of powder turns throughout Utah and Montana in the winter alongside his wife, Jamie.  Earl is a gem of a human being. He works tirelessly behind the oars for his customers and fishing buddies alike, and understands what it takes to get an angler on the right path to finding success on the water.