Captain Derrek is a die-hard fishing Machine! Raised in the Northwest, he has been chasing big fish his whole life. His favorite sound in the world, is the sound of a fish pealing line off the real. If you love catching fish, and having a great time doing it, Derrek is your guide. Be ready to lots of High 5’s, and plenty of Pictures.

Captain Bob Tardy grew up in Colorado, dreaming about one day being an Alaskan fishing guide. Beginning in 2005, he traded engineering consulting for fishing privileges on Admiralty Island and got his captain’s license in 2011. He has been guiding for eight years, four of them being at Salmon Falls. During the off-season he lives in Colorado, where he loves to sail, fish, and bow hunt. Some of his favorite memories at Salmon Falls include the time an inexperienced guest hooked a very large Lingcod and another guest and himself had the opportunity to coach the struggling angler until they landed the fish. Limited dates in 2023 season.

Salmon Falls General Manager, Matt Herod, has been a driving force behind the Resort for 3 seasons now. A 14-year veteran of the Alaskan seasonal hotel industry, Herod ventured from his home state of Arizona to explore the back country of Denali National Park. During that first summer he fell in love with the picturesque landscape and the midnight sun. Herod was born and raised in Prescott, Arizona and is excited to share his love for fishing with all guests of Salmon Falls Resort.

Chef Jordan grew up in Edina, Minnesota. At an early age he began watching and studying shows like Emeril Live where his interest in becoming a Chef began. Starting in catering kitchens in Minneapolis, he took a job as a line cook at 18 and moved his way up. Swiler graduated from the University of Missouri in 2009 with a degree in Food Science. After moving back to Minneapolis in 2010, Swiler set his eyes on becoming an influential Chef in the city. At 34, he became the Executive Chef of Cafe and Bar Lurcat and has been there since 2016. With a focus on fresh ingredients and creative techniques, Swiler is among the top chefs in Minneapolis and he’s excited to bring his craft to Timbers Restaurant.

Jesse grew up in Montana and began working in Ketchikan seasonally three years ago. In his first year at Salmon Falls, Jesse is responsible for keeping the marina and its crew in tip top shape, from captains to boats to the processed fish our guests that home. He loves the jack-of-all-trade, independent spirit of Alaska and the subsistence lifestyle that Southeast Alaska provides. His favorite fish is the silver (coho) salmon, calling it the “working man’s fish” for its great flavor, longevity in the freezer and the high amount that can be harvested from the waters around Salmon Falls.

Deckhand Sean Harrelson is from Hesperia, California. Sean came up to Alaska on May 7, 2019, to work at Salmon Falls. He fell in love with the job and has not been home since. His favorite part about the job is customer service and loves joking and getting to know the guests.

With over 30 years of hospitality experience, Colleen’s passion is building the luxury market segment with global brands; most recently with WorldHotels (Pre COVID) and more prominently, over 17 years with MGM Resorts International. Recognized by American Express’ Fine Hotels & Resorts, Partner of the Year 2009 for SKYLOFTS at MGM Grand and White House Communications Agency 2000 with the Executive team at St. Regis Los Angeles, Schmitz is considered an expert and an accomplished sales leader within the luxury travel industry.

Born and raised in Edmonton, AB, she spent her summers lake fishing and tent camping, with winters skiing and skating.

Based remote in Las Vegas with her family off, she’s looking forward to crossing off a bucket list item of snorkeling in Alaska this summer!

My heart and soul have been in Alaska, since the day I set foot on its land. It calls me back each year. I am passionate for all things outdoors, and have an extreme love for fishing.

This will be my 6th year returning to adventure in Alaska; my 3rd summer living there.

Admiration for adventure and nature has called Kelly back to Alaska for more than 20 years. As an avid backpacker, she loves taking in Alaska’s beauty from every angle. She is also a passionate angler, enjoying the opportunity to fish in Alaska’s pristine waters and taking great joy in helping guests experience the

Just your typical Tennessee boy that grew up with ma’ams and sirs. I enjoy thrills and adventures. Alaska has been able to provide that and more. When not at work or fishing you can find me on my mountain or road bike.