- Steve Burns @ Red's Fly Shop
CALL NOW (509)933-2300
CALL NOW (509)933-2300
Steve Burns aka "Burns"
Stephen Burns, known as just “Burns” by both guests and guides, brings a lifetime of experience, patience, and good vibes to every fly fishing trip. With roots in Southern California, Burns was born in Los Gatos and grew up in Laguna Niguel/Dana Point—a coastal upbringing that sparked his deep connection to the outdoors. He learned to fly cast in the Eastern Sierra, taught by his uncle, and has since dedicated his life to chasing fish, sharing knowledge, and spending time in wild places.
Burns is a versatile, mature, and endlessly patient guide, whose calming presence makes even the most complicated techniques feel approachable. His guiding career started on the Olympic Peninsula, and since then, he's spent time on the Klickitat River, Clear Creek in Alaska, and countless waters throughout Bristol Bay. Whether he’s targeting steelhead, trout, or king salmon, Burns brings a thoughtful and observant style to every day on the water.
"My goal is to meet every angler where they’re at—whether it’s your first cast or your thousandth—and help you learn something new, have fun, and leave the river a better fisherman than when you showed up."
Steve Burns Testimonials
“Steve was exceptional.”
I’ve fished with several great guides from Red’s, but Steve stood out. His instruction was spot-on, his river knowledge was outstanding, and he adjusted seamlessly between my beginner skill level and my brother’s more advanced needs. Plus, he rowed back up to give us second and third passes through productive water—something you rarely see. Truly above and beyond.
Anonymous Feedback
“Steve coached us into fish all day long.”
Steve is a master at reading water and adjusting rigs and flies as the day unfolds. His teaching style is clear and intentional—he tells you what’s coming before it happens, which really helps you dial things in. He was organized, energetic, and gave us a productive and fun day on the river.
Anonymous Feedback
“Great with anglers of all levels.”
Steve was incredibly patient with our group, which included brand-new anglers. He kept the day positive, worked hard to keep us in fish, and stayed late when the evening rise turned on. He’s personable, easy to learn from, and genuinely fun to fish with.
Anonymous Feedback
“A true professional.”
Steve was knowledgeable, well-prepared, and gave expert-level advice without ever being overwhelming. He worked the water hard, offered great communication, and made our day feel both smooth and educational. I’ll definitely be fishing with him again.
Anonymous Feedback
“Steve made our winter trip a success.”
We landed 11 trout on a half-day winter float thanks to Steve’s preparation and skill. His knowledge of fly selection, drift setup, and winter water tactics was top-tier. I’ve been fishing this river for over 40 years, and that day blew me away. Red’s is lucky to have him.
Anonymous Feedback
A Passionate and Dedicated Angler
His passion lies in dry fly, spey, and streamer fishing, where his eye for detail and love for the process truly shine. Burns is equally at home helping beginners take their first cast or refining advanced skills for seasoned anglers. When he’s not guiding, you’ll find him surfing, snowboarding, bodyboarding, or spearfishing—activities that echo his love of motion, rhythm, and reading water.
Known for his humble sense of humor and even more surprising talents (yes, he can ride a unicycle and juggle at the same time), Burns creates a fishing experience that feels less like a lesson and more like a day on the water with a good friend. His ideal client? “Someone willing to learn and above all, have fun.” For him, the real reward comes when a guest walks away with a few new tricks and the feeling of a day well spent.
Burns has a deep appreciation for bonefish, steelhead, and king salmon, but it’s not just about the species—it’s about the experience. While he doesn’t play favorites when it comes to flies, his advice to beginners is crystal clear: “Be patient. Don’t get frustrated. Fly fishing is a lifelong journey of learning.” That mindset is what makes him such an effective guide—and such a joy to spend a day with.
His dream trip is chasing fish in the Seychelles, his go-to pre-fishing tunes come from the Jerry Garcia Band, and if he could share a meal with anyone, past or present, it’d be Anthony Bourdain. Until then, you’ll find him rowing clients into fish, cracking subtle jokes, and showing folks that the best days on the water are about more than just the catch.