About Us
At our core, we are the embodiment of true Alaskan fishing enthusiasts. Operating two distinct remote fishing adventure trips on the Alaska Peninsula, literally in the middle of nowhere. Unlike the conventional, structured Alaska fly fishing lodge settings, our camps stand amidst the wilderness, far removed from paved roads and any other anglers.
Our ethos revolves around a down-to-earth atmosphere, prioritizing exceptional customer service. Expect an authentic Alaskan experience defined by pristine waters, unmatched fishing opportunities, and the absence of crowds.
And in spite of the Mother Nature factor inherent to remote Alaska, we promise that no matter what the conditions are outside, we will do everything we can to make sure you have an exceptional Alaska fly fishing adventure. Period.
Our Team
Don Mutert
After working with EPIC A&A since 2018, Don took over the entire business in 2023! He grew up in IL but moved to Bozeman, MT in 2015 to pursue a degree in Film and Photography. Most likely it was because he has a passion for the outdoors, fly fishing and bow hunting! Being a fly fishing guide was always in his blood – his uncle guided for 10+ years on the Alaska Peninsula & the remote Russian Kamchatka Peninsula. Don is a Wilderness First Responder and U.S. Coast Guard licensed.
Owner
Shannon Mutert
Don’s sister, Shannon, is also originally from IL, but moved to WI to attend UWP, graduating with a Bachelor of Business Admin/Marketing in 2020. Still living in southwest WI, she gets to fly fish the small, clear streams of the Driftless area where the Brown and Brook trout are plentiful!
Customer Support
Paul Marr (“Frog”)
Paul grew up in Memphis, TN but moved to Denver, CO to attend college… and climb, fish and camp amongst the Rockies. He was originally inspired by the mountains after his older cousin spent time climbing in South America. But the mountains kept calling after his sister visited Norway. Eventually he embarked on his own trips through NOLS to the Pacific NW, the Yukon, and even spending 6 months in Patagonia. Paul has been with us since 2022 when he started as the camp helper and apprentice guide.
Guide, AWO & AWS 2026
Rick Gildea
Raised in Colorado, Rick was always curious about the folks waving strange sticks over the river. That curiosity led to a passion for fly fishing and a lifelong pursuit began. From the rivers of the West to the remote drainages of Alaska, every trip is a chance for Rick to help create unforgettable memories. A dedicated fly tier, Rick keeps his fly boxes loaded with fresh hand-tied patterns designed to tempt even the most selective fish. His philosophy is simple: good things come to those who fish often. Off the water, Rick is a seasoned wrestling coach and expert in drywall work, bringing discipline, craftsmanship, and focus to everything he does
Guide, AWO 2026
Ben grew up in the Seattle area chasing sea-run cutthroat and trout on Washington’s desert lakes. With over 18 years in the fly-fishing industry, he has guided throughout Alaska’s Kuskokwim region and Bristol Bay, explored much of Alaska and British Columbia by boat, and spent countless days pursuing steelhead, which he guides for on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula each winter. Ben previously served as General Manager of Olympic Peninsula Skagit Tactics, helping popularize modern Skagit casting techniques. Passionate about fly casting, fly tying, and teaching, he enjoys helping anglers improve their skills and create unforgettable experiences on the water.
Guide, Safari Camp 2026
Ben Paull
Sawyer Balderson
Sawyer grew up in Portland, Oregon, where countless days spent camping and fishing throughout the Pacific Northwest sparked a lifelong passion for the outdoors. Anadromous fish are at the heart of his interests, and during the winter months he works on research projects deploying satellite tracking tags on Oregon steelhead to better understand their ocean migration patterns. Sawyer enjoys everything from single-hand fly fishing and Spey casting to conventional tackle, making him a true all-around fisherman. After spending a season as a camp hand and apprentice guide in King Salmon, Alaska, he quickly realized that Alaska would remain an important part of his future.
Guide, AWS 2025
Kevin Spenla brings the heat (and the wood smoke) to the wilderness. As the camp chef at our Safari camp, Kevin combines years of open fire expertise with a genuine love for cooking in the great outdoors. Kevin’s culinary journey began in 2012 when he founded Dang Brother Pizza, a venture that took him across the United States catering events and feeding crowds with bold, wood-fired flavors. That life on the road sharpened his skills and deepened his passion for crafting memorable meals in unconventional settings. When you’re coming off the river after a full day of fishing, expect to sit down to something worth the trip. Kevin is also a United States Marine Corps Veteran.
Chef, 2026 AWS
Kevin Spenla
Rudy grew up in Sheridan, Wyoming, at the base of the Bighorn Mountains, where a childhood spent camping and exploring the outdoors sparked a lifelong passion for adventure. He discovered fly fishing in high school and quickly became hooked, spending every opportunity chasing trout across mountain streams, rivers, and canyons throughout the West. A recent graduate of Wartburg College in Iowa, where he studied psychology and business while competing as a collegiate wrestler, Rudy enjoys pushing himself through ultramarathons, backpacking trips, and new outdoor challenges. He’s excited to share his enthusiasm for fishing, wilderness, and adventure with guests in Alaska..
Camp hand / Apprentice Guide 2026 AWS
Rudy Osborne
Employment Opportunities
If you think you have what it takes to work in a rugged, remote and unforgiving environment that will challenge you both physically and mentally, please contact us about potential staff openings.
Everybody thinks they want to work in Alaska, but the work is NOT for everybody. Our work is perpetual and strenuous and is anything but your “great Alaskan vacation.” We need professional, hard working, serious, team oriented (no ego-maniacs), non-alcoholic and drug free people with a passion for fishing, the outdoors and hospitality.
Email all inquiries and resumes to info@epicanglingadventure.com.