Our Guides
Nick Solley — Owner & Guide
Now the proud Owner of Angler’s West, Nick first joined the team as one of our in-store trip coordinators, casting instructors, and guides.
Originally from Washington, Connecticut, Nick grew up exploring and fly fishing the legendary trout streams of New England. He earned his B.S. in Geology from St. Lawrence University in Canton, NY, where he was an active member of both the Outing Club and the Hunting & Fishing Club. It was there that his passion for the outdoors truly became a way of life.
After college, Nick spent time on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, teaching surfing at Sacred Surf and working for Chatham Shellfish Company. When he wasn’t in the water for work, he was often in it for play—chasing striped bass along the coast during the summer migration.
In 2018, Nick packed up and headed west. Following a winter season in Big Sky, he began guiding for Angler’s West in the summer of 2019. Since then, he’s become an indispensable part of the team—known for his knowledge, patience, and genuine enthusiasm for the sport.
During the season, you’ll find Nick in the shop helping guests navigate fly selection, gear, and Yellowstone’s unique waters—or out on the river, teaching and guiding anglers firsthand. When he’s off the clock, Nick is usually exploring new stretches of water across the Greater Yellowstone region. In the winter, he trades his fly rod for a snowboard, carving through Montana’s deep powder that will soon melt into next summer’s trout streams..
Dan Grabowski — Guide
Dan hails from the great state of wandering anglers — Minnesota. Growing up just outside the Twin Cities, he discovered his true calling early on and followed it north to Alaska, where he guided at the legendary Tikchik Narrows Lodge. There, he spent five seasons helping guests chase massive salmon and the famed leopard rainbows that define Alaska’s wild waters.
In 2004, Dan headed south to Montana, bringing with him years of guiding experience and an unwavering passion for the sport. Known for his work ethic, patience, and easygoing nature, Dan goes above and beyond to ensure every guest has an unforgettable day on the water. Whether you’re fishing one of our local rivers, exploring spring creeks, or casting on a quiet mountain lake — time with Dan is always time well spent.
When he’s not guiding, Dan can be found in the field chasing upland birds with his English Cocker, Locky, whose drive rivals his own. Off the water and out of the field, he enjoys family adventures with his wife, Christy, and their two children, Betsy and Louis, skiing the many family-run slopes that make Montana winters so special.