Born on February 18, 1983, Joe Raymond’s introduction to the world of fishing came at an early age, courtesy of his father. Although his father was not a dedicated bass angler, he relished creek-side adventures with young Joe, casting rebel craws and tubes. These seminal experiences ignited a passion for fishing that would come to define much of Raymond’s life.

Joe’s interest in tackle was solidified when his father bequeathed him his own collection. Armed with a lightly-used, graphite Shimano rod, Joe spent his pre-school mornings practicing casting in his backyard. Throughout his youth, he was a regular presence at local ponds and creeks, with largemouth and smallmouth bass as his primary targets. His explorative nature extended to the creeks’ ecosystems, where he would turn over rocks to study potential fish food sources, such as crawfish.

By the age of 26, Raymond had acquired his first boat and, just five years later, he operates his fourth—a custom 17’6″ X 69″ jet boat named “Rockzilla.” This specialized vessel features a full UHMW bottom and a raised tunnel intake, powered by a 250 HP Mercury Optimax inboard jet engine. It is also equipped with a Minn Kota Fortrex 101 trolling motor and two 8-foot Minn Kota “Talons” for rapid anchoring.

Professionally certified with a Pennsylvania Guide License and comprehensive commercial insurance, Joe fishes year-round, with a particular emphasis on river smallmouth bass. His preferred angling approach during warmer months is “power fishing,” although he equally enjoys more measured techniques during the winter, successfully catching bass in water temperatures as low as 33 degrees Fahrenheit.

Clients who spend a day angling with Joe often express astonishment at the day’s end, struck by the intensity and action-packed nature of the experience. Joe takes great pride in sharing his extensive knowledge and techniques with aspiring anglers, and believes that his unique fishing styles offer some of the most exhilarating bass-fishing experiences available.