– Shan Sedgwick @ Red's Fly Shop
CALL NOW (509) 933-2300
CALL NOW (509) 933-2300
Meet SHAN SEDGWICK
Shan George Tilford Sedgwick, affectionately known as "Shan Man" simply because it rhymes, is one of the longest-tenured guides at Red’s Fly Shop. Shan’s journey into fly fishing began humbly in Two Dot, Montana—a town immortalized in a Hank Williams Jr. song—where his uncle and dad took pity on his attempts to fly fish with a cane pole and taught him the art properly. It took two years for Shan to catch his first fish, but that moment sparked a lifelong passion. Now based in Yakima, Washington, Shan brings decades of experience and a treasure trove of stories to the water.
Shan’s fondest fishing memory takes him back to the Klickitat River, where he shared the water with Joe Rotter, Rockne, and Rodney Pinon during Red’s early days. Guiding on the Yakima River Canyon was his first foray into the profession, and over the years, he’s expanded his expertise to waters like the Naches, Klickitat, Methow, Grande Ronde, and countless others. Whether it’s guiding anglers on small creeks or lakes, Shan has a knack for making every trip special.
"If you’re having fun, the fish will figure it out. Stress less, laugh more, and let the catching take care of itself—it’s not like the trout are keeping score anyway!"
Shan Sedgwick Testimonials
“Shan the Man!”
He kept us in fish, adjusted tactics throughout the day, and gave clear, helpful instruction with a great sense of humor. Shan was just as excited about the bites as we were—and that energy made the day even better. You can tell he genuinely loves guiding, and that passion is contagious.
Anonymous Feedback
“Our new go-to guide.”
I've fished the Yakima for over 20 years and never thought I’d take a guided trip in my own backyard—but Shan made it completely worth it. From positioning the boat just right for my wife to patiently coaching us both, he created an experience that felt personal, fun, and memorable. We’ll definitely be back in his boat.
Anonymous Feedback
“A true pro with a passion for teaching.”
Shan was the full package—knowledgeable, patient, and totally locked in on helping us get better. He put us on fish all day and gave just the right amount of coaching to make each cast count. Whether you’re brand new or have years under your belt, Shan meets you where you’re at and makes the day awesome.
Anonymous Feedback
Thanks Shan for another stellar trip. You all at Red's continue to up your game and communicate well. I got a nice note about repeat clients/friends being your lifeblood, which is so true for most businesses. You all have helped me so much with trips for about 15 years and created so many memories. Shan, you are a joy to travel with, to fish with. You do a great job of managing strong personalities, and do your best to meet everyone's needs. You are knowledgeable without being a know it all. Even political discussions are (mostly) fun and informative. You keep us all safe, though have no control of idiot clients jumping off boats barefoot... You are also very kind to guides and staff.I just wanted to say a sincere thank you. I've pursued Palometa with most of you. Finally checking a great one off my bucket list certainly added to the joy of this trip, since weather wasn't the best and fishing was a bit slow. But as always, the joy comes from the fishing.. I look forward to our next trip, wherever that may turn out to be.
Alan Smith
“Incredible experience start to finish.”
Shan was incredibly engaging, positive, and clearly knows the river like the back of his hand. He gave us great feedback when we wanted it, kept things light and fun, and had us into fish all day. His friendly approach made it easy to learn without feeling pressured. We can't wait to fish with him again—hopefully in Xflats soon!
Anonymous Feedback
“Great with kids and families.”
Shan was absolutely fantastic with my grandson. He kept things fun and educational without ever being overbearing. From teaching casting to keeping us on fish, he worked hard the entire day. A top-notch guide and a great person to spend a day on the water with.
Anonymous Feedback
SHANANIGANS IN THE BOAT
For Shan, guiding isn’t just about catching fish—it’s about having a GREAT time while teaching and sharing his passion for fly fishing. His ideal client is someone who embraces the process, finding joy in the journey of becoming a better angler rather than focusing solely on the destination. While he’s skilled in a variety of techniques, he has a particular fondness for guiding over strike indicators, finding joy in helping others experience success and land trout in his boat.
When Shan isn’t guiding, he’s often—unsurprisingly—fly fishing himself. He’s also a seasoned host for Red’s travel adventures, having fulfilled his dream trip multiple times while exploring some of the world’s best fisheries. Bonefish hold a special place in his heart, and he fondly remembers his first and last of the season every year.
OLD MAN STRENGTH AND WISDOM
Shan’s wealth of experience is matched by his down-to-earth personality and quick wit. A former Costco manager who led a large team with loyalty and skill, Shan brings both leadership and a sense of humor to every trip. Married to his wife Robin for over 30 years, he’s the proud father of three boys and the owner of an adorable poodle named Sammy.
His advice for beginners is simple yet profound: “Enjoy the fishing; the catching will take care of itself.” With his old man strength, a trusty Pat’s Stone fly, and a commitment to creating memorable experiences, Shan ensures his guests leave with smiles and stories they’ll remember for years. And if he could have dinner with anyone? Richard Nixon—because, as Shan says, “I have so many questions.”