Capt. Gil Berke has been fishing in one form or another since age 12, and has been pursuing both fresh and saltwater species with a fly rod for the past 25 years. It became evident that fly fishing isn't a pass time that you get hooked on, but for some, it is a lifestyle that hooks you. After moving to the Boston area to attend Berklee College of Music, Gil become aware of the amazing fishing opportunities of both the salt and fresh waters of Massachusetts.
Although Gil was still doing his share of fishing with a surf stick or spinning rod, the fly rod rapidly became his "weapon" of choice and remains so to this day. The next logical part of this progression was learning to tie his own flies and soon became as passionate about this phase of the sport as the fishing itself. It became clear that Gil possessed a talent for designing fly patterns and was soon commercially tying for a number of shops in the area. Nearly 10 years ago, Gil submitted a number of patterns to Umpqua Feather Merchants, had a number of saltwater patterns accepted and remains a contract tyer with them.
Having the good fortune to hookup with the right people at the right time, has afforded him the opportunity to travel to a number of the world's most interesting and under fished destinations. To date, Gil is at 142 species both fresh and saltwater and counting. Among his travels he has visited many of the blue ribbon rivers and lakes of the western U.S., many Bahamas destinations, the Yucatan, Belize, Alaska, the Seychelles, offshore live-aboards in the Pacific, Panama, Florida keys and many others. What this translates into as guide, is a wealth of experience, tips, tricks, and improvisational abilities that make a clients day memorable. Visit our Photo Gallery to see photos from many of these trips.
Gil has written articles for Fish ans Fly magazine, contrubuted to the first article done on fly fishing the Seychelles for Flyfishing in Saltwaters magazine, and appeared in Andy Mill's ESPN show on fishing the fall albie blitz in North Carolina. Gil has also worked for the Orvis company as fly fishing department manager, was an Orvis endorsed guide, and taught their fly fishing school. With nearly 15 years guiding experience under his belt, the captain is equally as comfortable with beginners as he is with seasoned veterans.
Reservations & More Info:
508-435-7147
email: gberke@outermostexcursions.com
