Meet the Guides

Ryan Johnston

Ryan Johnston has enjoyed the privilege of guiding anglers since 2003. For most of the year, he guides in Northern California; in the summer months, though, you can find him in Idaho guiding the South Fork of the Snake River. Actually, this abundant tailwater is where he casted his first fly on a guided trip with his father, way back in 1994 at the age of twelve.

Since then, he has taken every chance to travel the world, fly rod in-hand. With plenty of practice and support, Ryan has become one of the most patient and hardworking guides you’ll find. His laid-back, fish-hard demeanor has gained him a solid following of clientele in both California and Idaho. Ryan is known for creating an enjoyable fly fishing experience for those who spend the day in his boat.

Over the years, Ryan has witnessed how fly fishing can foster important relationships for him and others. Time spent fly fishing together creates a special bond between people. When a person considers the beauty of the land, the soothing flow of the river, and the exhilaration of trying to catch the fish that live in the river’s cold waters, it is no wonder that people come together in a special way on the river. Each day on the river is unique, holding its own special memories that last forever. Ryan’s father taught him that each day on the water is a gift from God, and we must be grateful for the opportunity to live in a country where we have the freedom to pursue our passions. So of course, Ryan’s passion is to spend time fly fishing with those he loves. Through divine inspiration, he has created Cast Hope, an organized method of blessing others with the joy and bonding of fly fishing. It is his dream to deepen relationships, renew love, and refresh souls.

Todd "Slim" Cancilla

Todd “Slim” Cancilla has been a fly fishing guide since 1993. The first twelve years of his guiding career were spent probing the famous San Juan River in New Mexico. He was blessed with great success there and a large following of anglers. But to be closer to friends and family, Slim moved to Redding, California in 2004 to guide the great waters of Northern California. In this short span of time he has quickly become one of the premier guides in the region – not surprising considering his experience, giftedness, and passion. He is a great instructor, expert rower, and phenomenal fisherman, so of course those who fish with Slim quickly gain proficiency at fly fishing. His great love for God and people makes a day in Slim’s boat full of laughs, great stories, and a sense of genuine friendship. It’s no wonder that Slim easily became Cast Hope’s go-to guide. His eagerness to donate trips has made it possible for this organization to impact many lives.

Hogan Brown

Hogan Brown began fly fishing from an early age. He virtually grew up on the banks of the North Fork and Lower Yuba rivers in Northern California. Since he was a kid the rivers and ponds have been his play ground. Lots of time spent chasing trout and bass have led him to become one of the best guides in the region. Hogan guided full time for 10 years but now is a high school teacher at Hamilton Union High School. Through dedication to the sport he now only guides part time as he balances his teaching and family life. Cast Hope is lucky to have Hogan on the weekends and during the summer. He is a living example of how fly fishing can positively make an impact on one’s life. Here at Cast Hope we call Hogan “the bass man”. He specializes in warm water bass fishing in the Sacramento River as well as various private ponds. Hogan knows the ins and outs of warm water fly fishing and has a nose for sniffing out the fish. Anyone will tell you that a day spent with Hogan is relaxing, fun, and full of great fishing. Hogan’s warm smile and down to earth mentality made him a great addition to the guides of Cast Hope. His willingness to guide for Cast Hope has allowed this organization to make an impact on the people of Northern California.