Keilor Gutierrez: Fly Fishing Guide at the Jungle Tarpon
Reserve, Costa Rica
Keilor Gutierrez is a passionate fly-fishing guide based in the
beautiful Caño Negro region of Costa Rica. Growing up in this
biodiverse area, Keilor spent his childhood fishing with friends,
gaining invaluable knowledge about the local waters and the
abundant wildlife that thrives there. His early years spin fishing
in his local river, laid the foundation for his deep understanding
of the area's unique ecosystem. His love for nature and fishing
grew stronger, and when the opportunity came to share this
passion with others, through his work. Living in the JTR,
surrounded by lush landscapes and rich biodiversity, brings him
great joy and connection to his roots.
Keilor is especially enthusiastic about working with younger
generations. Through guiding, he enjoys teaching students
about fly fishing and the importance of preserving Costa Rica's
incredible natural beauty. "It’s important, that I also learn from
students and apply that to my guiding career," Keilor explains. "I
enjoy sharing my culture with young people and exposing them
to the wonders of nature. Costa Rica, with its incredible
biodiversity, is the perfect place for wildlife lovers. Acting as a
role model to the next generation of fishermen is an honor. I
remember how much I relied on advice from adults when I was
young, and now I’m proud to impart my knowledge to them."
Working with students has been a rewarding experience for
Keilor. He appreciates how the younger anglers keep him active
and energized, "Most adult anglers who visit are experienced in
fishing exotic locations like this, but kids are always in awe
when they see the beauty of this region for the first time. It gives
me hope for the future because I know these young people
want to protect nature and care for the wildlife."
Keilor is also deeply committed to preserving Costa Rica's
natural environment. "Costa Rica is home to 5% of the world's
biodiversity, and we have a responsibility to protect it. We do
our best to avoid polluting the rivers and ensure that we leave
nature as we found it," he says. For Keilor, protecting the
environment is just as important as guiding; he wants his guests
to understand the significance of preserving the beauty and
biodiversity of this special place.
One of the key lessons Keilor always tries to impart to his
clients is the importance of cherishing the experiences life
offers. "Doing a good job and being present in the moment
makes us better guides," he explains. He believes that working
with younger generations not only inspires them but also
reminds him of the joy and purpose behind his career. Through
every interaction on the water, Keilor continues to grow, learn,
and share his love for fishing and nature with those lucky
enough to join him.
Reserve, Costa Rica
Keilor Gutierrez is a passionate fly-fishing guide based in the
beautiful Caño Negro region of Costa Rica. Growing up in this
biodiverse area, Keilor spent his childhood fishing with friends,
gaining invaluable knowledge about the local waters and the
abundant wildlife that thrives there. His early years spin fishing
in his local river, laid the foundation for his deep understanding
of the area's unique ecosystem. His love for nature and fishing
grew stronger, and when the opportunity came to share this
passion with others, through his work. Living in the JTR,
surrounded by lush landscapes and rich biodiversity, brings him
great joy and connection to his roots.
Keilor is especially enthusiastic about working with younger
generations. Through guiding, he enjoys teaching students
about fly fishing and the importance of preserving Costa Rica's
incredible natural beauty. "It’s important, that I also learn from
students and apply that to my guiding career," Keilor explains. "I
enjoy sharing my culture with young people and exposing them
to the wonders of nature. Costa Rica, with its incredible
biodiversity, is the perfect place for wildlife lovers. Acting as a
role model to the next generation of fishermen is an honor. I
remember how much I relied on advice from adults when I was
young, and now I’m proud to impart my knowledge to them."
Working with students has been a rewarding experience for
Keilor. He appreciates how the younger anglers keep him active
and energized, "Most adult anglers who visit are experienced in
fishing exotic locations like this, but kids are always in awe
when they see the beauty of this region for the first time. It gives
me hope for the future because I know these young people
want to protect nature and care for the wildlife."
Keilor is also deeply committed to preserving Costa Rica's
natural environment. "Costa Rica is home to 5% of the world's
biodiversity, and we have a responsibility to protect it. We do
our best to avoid polluting the rivers and ensure that we leave
nature as we found it," he says. For Keilor, protecting the
environment is just as important as guiding; he wants his guests
to understand the significance of preserving the beauty and
biodiversity of this special place.
One of the key lessons Keilor always tries to impart to his
clients is the importance of cherishing the experiences life
offers. "Doing a good job and being present in the moment
makes us better guides," he explains. He believes that working
with younger generations not only inspires them but also
reminds him of the joy and purpose behind his career. Through
every interaction on the water, Keilor continues to grow, learn,
and share his love for fishing and nature with those lucky
enough to join him.
Photo credits: Tom Enderlin