Meet the Blue Quill Team
Pat Gillen
Fly Fishing Guide
A lifelong outdoorsman and Evergreen resident for more than 37 years, Pat Gillen brings hard-earned problem-solving skills, a strong work ethic, and a genuine enthusiasm for helping anglers build confidence and enjoy greater success on the water.
About Pat
Born and raised in New York, Pat grew up hunting and fishing and developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors at an early age. At 21, he headed west to Colorado. For the past 37 years, he has proudly called Evergreen home.
Pat's path in the West has been anything but ordinary. He owned and operated an auto repair shop for more than 20 years while also competing on the professional rodeo circuit for 16 years. Through it all, he continued to make time for his true passion: fishing.
At The Blue Quill
Now retired from business ownership and rodeo, Pat brings the same work ethic, resourcefulness, and enthusiasm to his role as a fly fishing guide with The Blue Quill Angler.
His goal is to provide a memorable day on the water while helping each guest improve confidence, knowledge, and success. He enjoys working with everyone from first-time fly anglers to experienced fishermen looking to sharpen their skills.
Built on Work Ethic and Problem-Solving
Decades spent diagnosing mechanical problems, running a business, and competing in professional rodeo taught Pat the value of preparation, patience, persistence, and staying composed when conditions change.
Those qualities translate naturally to guiding. Pat pays attention to the details, works through challenges methodically, and keeps the day moving in a positive direction—whether the fish are cooperative or demanding a more thoughtful approach.
A Calm, Practical Approach
Pat meets anglers where they are. He explains techniques in clear, useful steps and gives guests room to learn by doing, helping them understand not only what adjustment to make, but why it works.
The result is a relaxed, encouraging experience built around the guest's goals, ability level, and enjoyment of the day.
Evergreen Roots, Lifelong Outdoor Passion
After nearly four decades in Evergreen, Pat's connection to Colorado extends well beyond the river. He values the landscape, the local community, and the outdoor traditions that first drew him west. Guiding gives him the opportunity to share that connection while helping others become more capable and confident anglers.
Pat brings a lifetime of outdoor experience, steady problem-solving, and genuine enthusiasm
to every trip—helping anglers enjoy the day while building skills they can carry forward.