Guest Angler Q&A Series: John Parisi

In this new monthly series, we sit down with guests from across to angling community to bring new perspectives and share a glimpse into different aspects of the sport, fisheries and watersheds, and culture. This month, we spoke with John Parisi from TCO Outfitters out of Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania. Enjoy!

Tell us a bit about yourself and how you got the fly fishing bug. 

I’ve been fishing in Eastern Pennsylvania for around 25 years and working/ guiding for TCO Fly Shop the last 9 years.  My parents bought me a fiberglass fly rod from the salvation army when I was around 10 years old and I basically taught myself how to fly fish catching sunfish and smallmouth in the warmwater fisheries around Philadelphia.  When I finally got my drivers license, I split my time fishing between the limestone creeks in the Allentown area and small freestone streams in the Poconos. I definitely enjoy traveling to fish bigger rivers but I’ve always felt at home on smaller, more technical water.  

Now, you split your time between guiding and leading the team at TCO Fly Shop in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania. What do you enjoy most about interacting with other anglers? 

I really enjoy teaching newer anglers or helping more experienced anglers learn specific techniques. I fish and guide in areas with relatively high fishing pressure so it’s always fun watching those moments when you can get picky trout to eat.  

Pennsylvania has a lot to offer to anglers in terms of different fisheries from the ability to chase smallmouth on the top water to “blue-lining” for brookies. Do you think it rivals other angling destinations such as Montana and Wyoming?  

I’m clearly biased but Pennsylvania is one of the best fly fishing destinations in the country.  I think anglers in Pennsylvania are relatively secretive about the resources we have here and on average, the fly fishing is a little more difficult than some other areas I’ve fished. That being said, if you enjoy small streams, Pennsylvania basically has a lifetime of wild trout streams to fish if you’re willing to explore a little bit.  Usually, I try to plan my western fishing trips during the summer when the water here is getting a little low and warm.  

When you manage to find time to get on the water yourself, do you have a favorite style of fishing (whether it’s throwing big streamers or euro-nymphing) and what are you chasing?  

My favorite style of fishing is dry fly fishing.  I usually start my morning euro nymphing and switch to dry fly fishing in the afternoon when bugs start to come off.  April-June is prime dry fly time and we have a pretty good terrestrial season in the summer as long as things don’t get too hot.  

Given that you’ve guided anglers of all abilities, what is your top tip for those just getting into the sport?  

I think the one thing I would suggest to newer anglers is to focus on one technique at a time.  With all the information on YouTube and social media, it’s easy to bounce from one thing to another without truly getting proficient at anything. It takes time on task to learn these things and don’t get frustrated if it doesn’t happen right away.

Thanks John for sitting down with us and sharing your story!

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Your Name: John Parisi

Location & Home Water: Lehigh Valley Limestone Creeks (Eastern Pennsylvania)

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Favorite Species: Brown trout

Favorite Fly Pattern: Quilldigon

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Favorite Rod / Reel Set-up:

Sage ESN 10’ 3 Weight Sage ESN Reel