Ken Collins is the owner and head instructor/guide for Grand River Troutfitters Ltd., in Fergus, Ontario. With more than 100 guide/instruction days on the water each year, he has taken his experience and developed one of Ontario's most popular and successful Hands-on Fly-fishing Schools. It sure helps having the outdoor classroom right out the back door of the shop.

Born and raised on Georgian Bay, a perfect venue for fishing, I have enjoyed everything this area has to offer. Fishing began for me at the summer cottage when I was 9 years old. By 16, I was the proud owner of my first fly rod. I continued to fish, primarily with gear until I was invited on a spring trip to the Catskills. From that time forward, I’ve gravitated to fishing with a fly rod.
At first it was very frustrating as I fumbled about and It wasn’t until I took my first casting lesson that I began to progress. As my casting skills developed, my priorities changed. Because I can now present my flies under adverse conditions, I tend to have more fun with the increased challenge.
I’ve had some exceptional mentors guiding me as I developed as a caster. Over the years, I have achieved the FFF Master Casting Instructor certification and am currently pursuing the 2-handed certification.
I have taught for clubs, organizations and have provided individual instruction. In the fall, you can find me somewhere on the “Notty” trying to encourage the silver beauties to grab on to my various creations.
Retired, I get to play a lot and I divide my outdoor time between wilderness canoeing and paddling instruction, photography, and fly fishing.
If you want to become a better fly angler, my advice is to improve your casting skills.