Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jeffrey McKenna. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Jeffrey , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.
It doesn’t matter what industry you’re in – there’s always some risk, competition, drama, and reward. Being in the fishing world is really no different! There is an amazing network of people who are supportive and awesome, but unfortunately, there is a small number of people who are not. I felt like I was moving forward with most, learning and growing in the industry but felt the need to take the risk and separate myself from those critics.
The idea of being able to build my own company, create a network and a community of like-minded people was very appealing. It was a little scary. I felt a tug and followed my heart to start Colorado West Slope Fly Fishing.
There’s a great risk in going out on your own and you need a positive and strong support system. My family has been that for me but it hasn’t come without some sacrifices. While everyone is out playing, I’m up everyday before the sun, working hard. There’s a lot of behind the scenes work and preparation with being a guide. I’m fortunate to be able to have a great office “window” that is outside and typically involves a boat, water, fishing, and being in nature. I’m fortunate to get to do what I do.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I started fishing when I was young with my dad and grandpa. Those days were bonding and impactful in my life. I learned fishing from them and also the value of hard-work. (Looking back now, I could have learned a whole heck of a lot about fishing from a guide!) Unfortunately, I lost my dad. However, it encouraged me to keep his memory alive through fishing. My pain became my passion. Fishing allows me to honor my heritage and is a nod to my dad and grandpa.
Everyday I’m on the water I want my clients to walk away with memories, having learned something new, and a terrific experience. While I can’t control the fish, I can try my hardest to give them great fishing opportunities and a day they’ll remember!
CWSFF is fortunate to have many area waters to fish. We’ve got diversity in fish species as well as water options – from rivers, to large reservoirs, lakes in between, and private waters. We have different boat options in addition to walk-wading and ice-fishing in the winter! We have the ability to hand-select our guides who believe in our mission.
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
Colorado West Slope Fly Fishing initially began ten years ago in 2013 as solely a social media brand/awareness of fishing on Colorado’s western slope. I built Instagram and Facebook with cool photos and began hashtagging #cwsff and a lot of anglers starting to hashtag and the presence began to grow. Fast-forward to 2022 when I started the business, it was easy to choose a name and have a big group of followers on social media already!
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
I’ve been really lucky to have repeat clients and with them come their recommendations and referrals. Word of mouth has been my most effective strategy for growing my clientele. Stay positive, have fun, and catch fish!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.coloradowestslopeflyfishing.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/coloradowestslopeflyfishing
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coloradowestslopeflyfishing
- Other: https://www.google.com/search?q=google.com%3A+coloradowestslopeflyfishing&oq=google.com%3A+coloradowestslopeflyfishing&aqs=chrome..69i57.9451j0j1&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#ip=1
Image Credits
Picture credit CWSFF