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    About Me    

Galen standing in front of the Shenandoah River, founder and guide at Shenandoah Valley Adventure Co

Hi, I’m Galen — a guide, teacher, and lifelong student of the river.

I was raised on the waters of Michigan — paddling lakes, chasing fish in creeks, and learning how to read the water by watching how it flows over the land. Over the years, I’ve fished for everything from smallmouth bass and bluegill to trout, salmon, and steelhead. But what’s kept me coming back isn’t just the catch — it’s what the water teaches.

These days, I spend my time floating, fishing, paddling, and sharing that experience with others. Whether it’s a cast, a paddle stroke, or a moment of stillness, I believe time on the water gives us the chance to slow down, pay attention, and connect — to nature, to skill, and to self.

I’m also a high school science teacher, which means teaching is in my bones. I love helping people learn to move with water — to understand how rivers work, how fish behave, how ecosystems breathe, and how to feel more at home outside.

Whether you’re brand new or looking to go deeper, my goal is simple: give you a day on the river that teaches you something, challenges you a little, and leaves you with a story you'll carry for a long time.

Let’s go find your flow.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in its programs on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status.  To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (202)720-5964 (voice and TDD).  USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.

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