The short version, John Sappington is the guide you want so stop researching which one to hire, but if you need to hear more keep reading.

When I first began reviewing all the Branson guides I was looking for someone who was family friendly and without a huge ego. Some guides attempt to reel customers in by bragging and displaying pictures of huge fish but aren't entertaining during the trip. I also took in consideration their profile description and cost. Once I narrowed it down to a few guides I knew without a doubt John was the right choice based off his knowledge, willingness to accommodate 2 trips on different days and his overall humble approach.

Our first of 2 trips was to be for bass since that is the type of fish and style we preferred and the second we were willing to experience trout fishing.  A few weeks out before our trip I contacted John just to confirm the trip and during our conversation he informed me he had some concerns with the lakes where he normally does his bass trips. Also with the time of year July, the better option would be to trout fish on Lake Taneycomo for the most bites. He was honest about everything but we were determined to bass fish so John said “Ok, Let’s go to Lake Taneycomo and fish for bass and if we don't find them we can trout fish.” I really appreciated that John was willing to switch up the trip I requested to ensure we caught fish if we weren't having any success with the bass. John called me the night before the trip to confirm time and location. He was at the lake on time and ready to rock. We hit the shores and worked the shallow middle. Out of respect for John's business I will refrain from giving the details and fishing techniques but I will say in a half day trip and 3 in the boat we caught about 20 bass with a few decent size. We caught enough that there wasn't a need to switch over to trout fishing. Once the trip concluded John was nice enough to provide a boat ride down to Branson Landing. He took the time to point out historical areas, talk about nature and the wildlife on the lake and educate us on how to catch more fish.

Our second trip was for trout. Again John contacted us the day before setting up time and location. He was ready to go on time with his boat cleaned out. This is important because it showed John’s preparation should be recognized as well since everything was ready to go when we arrived at the lake. I've been with some guides that they end up counting the rigging time part of the trip, but not John. This trip we had 4 in the boat and John guaranteed we would catch 20 fish except he was off since we caught I think 35 fish on our half day trip. A few of our catches can be seen here. John has a great sense of humor, is extremely patient yet determined to make sure everyone catches fish. This was a new experience trout fishing for my family and John made the transition easy and fun to understand.

I honestly can't advocate John enough as the guide you should select when fishing in Branson. Great Job John and I hope to book you again in October!