Meet the Blue Quill Team
Derek Draplin
Fly Fishing Guide
Derek was drawn to fly fishing by its complexity. As a guide, his goal is almost the opposite: simplify the details, make the learning process approachable, and help anglers enjoy their time on the water.
About Derek
Derek's fly-fishing journey has taken him through a wide range of waters. He grew up in Michigan, spent time living and fishing on the East Coast and in Hawaii, and eventually made his way to Colorado's Rocky Mountains.
His professional path in the fly-fishing world began in a shop on Michigan's historic Pere Marquette River. That experience gave him an early appreciation for both the technical side of the sport and the importance of helping anglers feel comfortable asking questions and learning at their own pace.
At The Blue Quill
Derek brings a friendly Midwestern demeanor and a patient teaching style to the Blue Quill guide team. He enjoys working with anglers at every experience level, from someone making their first casts to experienced fly fishers looking to sharpen the finer points of presentation and approach.
His goal is simple: take the parts of fly fishing that can feel complicated and turn them into useful, understandable decisions on the water.
From Michigan to the Rockies
Fishing across very different regions has given Derek a broad perspective. From the storied trout waters of Michigan to the East Coast, Hawaii, and now Colorado, each place has reinforced the same lesson: successful fly fishing starts with paying attention to the water and adapting to what the day gives you.
Fishing With Derek
Derek works to make a guide day feel relaxed, productive, and educational. Rather than overwhelming anglers with terminology or technique, he breaks things down into manageable pieces and explains why each adjustment matters.
That approach makes him especially well suited for newer anglers, while his varied fishing background gives experienced anglers plenty to dig into as conditions and opportunities change throughout the day.
On the Water
Fly fishing can seem to be be complicated. Derek's strength is simplifing it and helping anglers learn, improve, and enjoy the day.
Fish With Derek
Whether you're learning the fundamentals or looking to refine your approach on Colorado water, Derek brings patience, perspective, and an approachable teaching style to every trip.