The Guides
Owner - Jay Peck
Jay Peck always says “it doesn’t matter how much experience you have. You can always learn a new trick.” With 40+ years of fly fishing experience including 30 years as a licensed New York State guide, Jay has been applying his knowledge of the sport and local waters to help anglers in their pursuit of migratory fish, inland trout, and a variety of warm water species. He possess a deep understanding of fish habitat and behavior, ecology, and entomology which stretches the tributaries of western New York to the Salmon River.
Along with being an expert in fishing the Lake Ontario’s tributaries and spring creeks of western New York, Jay is also an accomplished spey caster and fly tyer. He has developed several fishing techniques and fly patterns for fishing the tributaries and inland trout streams (you’ll find his patterns in Steelhead Guide by John Nagy and Trout Flies of the East: Best Contemporary Patterns from East of the Rockies by Jim Schollmeyer and Ted Leeson)
Jay shares has a passion for teaching whether its through his guiding service, YouTube channel, or writing. hrough his guiding and his writing. He hold degrees in both Fish and Wildlife biology and Conservation Resources. Jay splits time between his home in Spencerport, NY and Pulaski, NY during the season.
Lead Guide - Rick Smith
As a local resident of the Tug Hill and Salmon River region, Rick has fished the Salmon River and tributaries of Lake Ontario for the majority of his life which has given him the local knowledge that is revered amongst anglers. He has been a licensed New York State fishing guide for over 20 years and worked along side of Jay Peck for the last 16 years. Prior to joining Lost River Fly Fishing, Rick worked under NYSDEC Special Assistant Fran Verdolvia as a River Steward, assisting with the stocking program and fishery surveys - his first hand experience with the DEC programs and the migratory species given him unique insights into the fish we chase as well as the watershed.
Since 2002, Rick has also served as manager of Pineville Sports Shop which makes him well versed on everything from Spey / Switch rods and the setup of these outfits to the best indicator for drifting eggs. He is also possesses a natural talent for teaching and amongst his peers and clients, Rick is highly respected for his vast knowledge of spey fishing, and all the intricacies of this angling method.
Endorsed Guide - George Zervos
George is an accomplished fly fisherman whom has fished the Salmon River and the inland trout streams of central New York for over 12 years. George obtained his New York State guide license in 2017 and takes great pride in being a teaching guide who promotes comradery and sportsmanship on and off the water. George also guides seasonally on the Douglaston Salmon Run.
Due to his positive attitude and friendly nature, George is highly revered amongst his peers. He is always willing to offer a friendly hand to anyone he meets and is a very positive influential leader both on and off the water. In 2018, George was chosen to fish alongside the host of the nationally televised fishing show Reel Bragging Rights where his catch brought home the tournament win.
George also owns and operates On the Fly Guide Service where he has been the recipient of numerous happy clients and stellar reviews.
