Stephen Balogh

Riffletrip Outfitters
Cotter, Arkansas

About me

Stephen grew up in North Texas where he started fishing at a very young age on the numerous lakes and creeks surrounding his hometown. Instead of playing on the jungle gyms, 4-year-old Stephen could be found baiting his own hook and reeling in bass, perch, giant catfish and the occasional behemoth carp. His passion for fishing grew larger and larger through his early school years until college; it then exploded. Stephen attended the University of Arkansas where he studied Hotel/Restaurant Management. He spent more time on the water than in class; whether it was an evening trip to night fish the White River or romping around Northwest Arkansas streams looking for smallmouth bass.<

Stephen’s guiding career started in 2009 during his sophomore year of college at a private rod and gun club north of campus. Eventually, in 2011, Stephen made his way to guide in Unalakleet, Alaska and from there the addiction grew. Since 2013, he has been guiding out of Vail, Colorado for Minturn Anglers where he has established himself as the go-to float fishing guide for both beginners and experts, young and old. A passion for saltwater fly fishing led him to become involved in an amazing lodge on the Mexican Caribbean, The Xflats. Primarily a permit fishery, Xcalak offers an unbelievable amount of opportunities to catch saltwater flats gamefish such as bonefish, tarpon, snook, jacks, cudas, and more.

Riffletrip Outfitters is your one-stop-shop for your fishing needs. Whether you want to chase trophy trout on the world famous White and Norfork rivers in Arkansas, float through incredible trout water in the Rocky Mountains around Vail, CO, or chase the elusive yet sought after Permit in the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean, we have you covered. 

Certifications

No certifications added yet.

Reviews

5.0 (12 reviews)

Trip: Full Day Float

With Stephen B. on October 27, 2023

Company: Riffletrip Outfitters

Went out with Kyle. On his advice launched from Norfork and went upriver to avoid some traffic and see the "prettiest part of the river". Good choice. He had the right flies and knew where to fish them. Big numbers, good fish, and fun guy to fish with. See you next year.

By William D. on October 30, 2023

Trip: 3/4 Day Float

With Stephen B. on October 09, 2023

Company: Riffletrip Outfitters

By Audie S. on October 17, 2023

Trip: 1/2 Day Float

With Stephen B. on September 08, 2023

Company: Riffletrip Outfitters

Great trip with a knowledgeable guide. Stephen was patient, funny, and excellent at putting us on fish. Carl Colmenares

By Carl C. on September 11, 2023

Trip: 3/4 Day Float

With Stephen B. on June 14, 2023

Company: Riffletrip Outfitters

By James M. on June 15, 2023

Trip: Full Day Float

With Stephen B. on May 30, 2023

Company: Riffletrip Outfitters

Stephen is a fantastic guide and put me on great fish all day every day!

By Andrew G. on June 06, 2023

Trip: 1/2 Day Float

With Stephen B. on April 27, 2023

Company: Riffletrip Outfitters

Great group and enjoyed every second will be back

By Colton C. on April 29, 2023

Trip: Full Day Float

With Stephen B. on April 26, 2023

Company: Riffletrip Outfitters

11 out of 10 great guy very knowledgeable about the fish and what’s going on and also has very good patience I will 100% be recommending him to anyone I know

By Colton C. on April 27, 2023

Trip: Full Day Float

With Stephen B. on October 21, 2022

Company: Riffletrip Outfitters

Enjoyed the time on the water. Great boat, gear, weather, and company. Enjoy the food and obviously caught some fish. Planning another trip.

By Rusty P. on October 28, 2022

Trip: Full Day Float

With Stephen B. on October 23, 2022

Company: Riffletrip Outfitters

Stephen did an absolutely phenomenal job ! His equipment and boat were pristine and his skill and knowledge were key in keeping us on fish. So many fish that my arm hurts !! I’ll be returning as soon as I can.

By brian S. on October 23, 2022

Trip: 1/2 Day Float

With Stephen B. on August 20, 2022

Company: Riffletrip Outfitters

By Jacob H. on August 20, 2022

Trip: Full Day Float

With Stephen B. on July 02, 2022

Company: Riffletrip Outfitters

By Mike E. on July 03, 2022