Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrew Milliorn.
Hi Andrew, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My story begins in El Paso, Far West Texas. I’m the oldest of 3 kids, both my parents worked extremely hard to make sure we had what we needed growing up. I was raised by my grandparents on the weekends, my parents worked and went to school, doing everything they could to provide a brighter future for us. Our family story begins during the Mexican Revolution, Ojinaga, and traveling for a better life. My grandparents were born in Marfa, Texas oddly enough. My grandparents gave me the gift of travel growing up. I’ve been to Greece and the Greek Islands, Turkey, England, Ireland, Asia Minor, Mexico, and all over the continental US. One thing that always resonated with me was nature, old cultures, and their beauty in any form or fashion. Picking up arrowheads at indigenous sites, casting for trout in Ruidoso, New Mexico, and exploring ancient Greek ruins in Ephesus. One part that always stuck with me was fishing because it involves exploring, constantly learning, and most of all…it takes you to some of the most beautiful and remote parts of the world. Fishing was a form of therapy for me. Upon writing this, I have essentially exited a 10+ year career in hospitality, mostly as a sommelier and floor manager. Fly fishing has hit a nerve with me, and it resonates. My first major challenge was having to leave Texas Tech because I decided to focus more on extracurricular activities partying rather than being in the classroom. I had the opportunity to go to college in its entirety, my grandfather had set up a trust fund for all the grandkids to be used for college. I blew that opportunity, for now, but who’s to say I can’t go back and finish?! After leaving Tech, I moved back to El Paso and lived with my parents on and off for the next few years. I tried getting back into school at UTEP, I was burned out and honestly did not care about an institutional education anymore. I wanted more from life.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Smooth wouldn’t be the correct word per se, I’ve absolutely had my struggles and challenges. I like to view it more as a trip through the hills, where you hit some mountains, but there are times where it’s downhill and that could be good or bad. As a new entrepreneur, figuring out ways to grow my business has been the most challenging. Fly fishing is a cult world, similar to wine and being a sommelier. It’s a good mixture of what you know but also who you know. It took me a year to finally get a position at a local fly shop. Especially since CoVid, the fly fishing business has grown exponentially, to a point where demand is far exceeding supply.
We’ve been impressed with Angler’s Choice Fly Fishing, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Angler’s Choice Fly Fishing is a guide service based in Austin, Texas and services the Texas Hill Country. I provide learning opportunities and angling experiences to all levels. If you are new to fly fishing and would like to avoid some beginner headaches, gain some insider tips, and improve your casting, Fly Fishing 101 is where you would begin your journey. If you are looking to catch some fish and learn some tips, a guided trip would be the best bet. A guided trip is for 1 or 2 anglers and is completely private. We will either ‘walk and wade’ or float one of Texas’ amazing rivers such as the San Marcos or Guadalupe, spending a few hours fishing, sightseeing, and hopefully landing some nice fish! I’m most proud of the R&D that goes into launching a guide service. It’s not just about being a good angler, but the art of teaching what you’ve learned to others.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I’m a people person. I find ways to connect with everyone and find a common ground that we can build on. This translates directly to being a successful guide. The competition is extremely high, and people talk. I want to be the best, and I achieve that by understanding my clients, what they are expecting out of a trip, and how to best meet those expectations. Let’s face it, they can’t always be met, but can we provide a world-class experience during that process. That is the guiding light of Angler’s Choice.
Pricing:
- Intro to Fly Fishing – $150
- Casting Lesson & Instruction – $75/hour
- Brushy Creek Guided Trip – $300
- Guadalupe River Guided Trip – $350
- San Marcos Guided Trip – $350
Contact Info:
- Email: andrew@anglerschoiceflyfishing.com
- Website: anglerschoiceflyfishing.com
- Instagram: anglerschoiceflyfishing
Image Credits
Andrew Milliorn
