– Jason Harwood @ Red's Fly Shop
CALL NOW (509)933-2300
CALL NOW (509)933-2300
Meet JASON HARWOOD
Jason Harwood leads Red’s Fly Shop’s University of Fly Fishing with unmatched passion and teaching ability. His deep commitment to helping anglers master the art of fly fishing has made him a highly sought-after instructor and guide. Whether working with complete beginners or refining the skills of seasoned anglers, Jason’s ability to break down complex techniques into approachable lessons is unparalleled. His enthusiasm for teaching shines brightest in his role as the University of Fly Fishing Director, where he fosters a welcoming and educational environment for all.
Jason’s journey into fly fishing began at the age of seven, when his father and grandfather introduced him to the sport in the mountains of Northern New Mexico. Sitting on a tree over a side channel, Jason caught his first trout on an Elk Hair Caddis—a moment that sparked a lifelong passion for fly fishing and the outdoors. Although he grew up in Louisburg, Kansas, fishing farm ponds for bass and bluegill, Jason always dreamed of moving west to find mountains, rivers, and trout. That dream became a reality, and he now resides in Ellensburg, WA, where he lives close to the waters he loves to fish and teach others about.
"Fly fishing isn’t about rushing to the next cast or the biggest fish—it’s about mastering the little things and letting the process teach you. Slow down, respect the water, and enjoy the journey. When you take the time to do it right, the rewards will come, and they’ll mean so much more."
FLY FISHING MEANS FAMILY
Jason’s fondest fly fishing memory is a trip to the St. Joe River with two close friends, floating 10 miles of water in Water Masters. Despite being caught in a rainstorm, they built a fire riverside to dry off and warm up before catching fish after fish on hoppers. Memories like this fuel his passion for sharing the joys of fly fishing with others.
When Jason isn’t guiding or teaching, he’s outdoors with his two sons, Rivers and Rhodes, or playing various sports. He and his wife Stephanie, a middle school math teacher, are proud parents who embrace the outdoors and farm life, complete with two yellow labs, chickens, cats, and any stray animal that finds its way to their property.
POSITIVE PATIENCE
Known for his "positive patience," Jason’s background in education helps him connect with clients on a deeper level. He encourages guests to embrace the process of learning fly fishing, focusing on small successes and building a foundation of skills. His ideal clients are those eager to learn, explore, and try new techniques like tight-line nymphing or working water on foot.
Jason hopes every guest leaves with at least three new takeaways from their time with him, whether it’s a new technique, a greater appreciation for the natural world, or the satisfaction of mastering a small but important detail. His dream trip, which he’s already lived, was fly fishing in Patagonia, though he continues to seek joy and fulfillment in every river, pond, and tributary he visits.
With a unique combination of expertise, patience, and a true passion for teaching, Jason Harwood is a cornerstone of Red’s Fly Shop, inspiring a new generation of anglers to fall in love with the art of fly fishing.