Your Guide

Meet Your Guide: Sean Thomas

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"For me, fly fishing isn’t just a hobby; it’s a lifelong conversation with the water."

Growing up in Blackwood, South East Wales, the rhythm of the River Sirhowy has always been the backdrop of my life. Whether I’m working at Greens Fishing Tackle, patrolling the banks as a Bailiff, or teaching my children, Rose and Billy, the magic of the cast, fishing is woven into everything I do.

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A Lifetime on the Water

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I’ve spent over 30 years exploring the rivers and lakes of Wales. While my passion has taken me to the wild waters of Japan, Sweden, Norway, and Scotland, my heart always brings me back home to our "post-industrial" gems. There is something uniquely special about pulling a wild brown trout from a stream that has reclaimed its beauty from our industrial past.

When the sun goes down, you’ll likely find me chasing the elusive Sewin (Sea Trout) at night, or heading to the coast to hunt for Bass and Mullet on the fly.

 

Community & Commitment

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I believe in giving back to the sport that has given me so much. I’m an active member of several local associations, including Ogmore, Islwyn, Royal Oak, Caerphilly, and Merthyr. As a committee member and Bailiff for the Gwent Angling Association, I am deeply committed to conservation and protecting our local beats for the next generation.

My professional journey has also allowed me to represent world-class brands; I am proud to be a Pro Team member for Fulling Mill, JMC, and Sakura.

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From Angler to Coach

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A few years ago, I helped a few newcomers on my local river. Seeing the "lightbulb moment" when a cast finally clicks or a first fish is landed was a game-changer for me. That sense of reward led me to qualify as a Level 2 Lead Angling Coach through the Angling Trust.

Today, I balance my time between guiding, coaching juniors at my local clubs, There is nothing more satisfying than passing on the knowledge I’ve gathered over three decades and seeing that same joy in someone else.

I still very much enjoy getting out myself, whether it be targeting wild brown trout on my local rivers. Fly fishing for Bass and 

Mullet. I particularly enjoy fishing for sea trout at night. a strong tradition in Wales that's kept my mind occupied for over 16 years.

 

My Promise to You

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Whether you are a seasoned angler looking to unlock a new river or a complete beginner picking up a rod for the first time, my goal is simple: to make your day memorable. I approach every guided session with:

• Patience: A relaxed, supportive environment to help you learn at your own pace.

• Knowledge: Deep insights into local hatches, river craft, and technical tactics.

• Ethics: A strong focus on conservation and respecting the environment.

I live here, I fish here, and I can’t wait to share these waters with you

 

What We Can Explore Together​

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I offer more than just a day on the water; I offer a tailored experience designed to improve your skills and deepen your connection to Welsh wild waters.

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1. Wild River Brown Trout

Experience the magic of our "post-industrial" rivers. These resilient, beautiful fish are my true passion. We will focus on:

• River Craft: Reading the water and understanding where the trout hold.

• Stealth & Approach: Learning how to move like a heron on our intimate streams.

• Modern Tactics: From traditional dry fly to specialized Euro-nymphing techniques.

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2. Night-Time Sewin (Sea Trout)

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There is nothing quite like the adrenaline of a Sewin hitting your fly in the pitch black.

 

• Join me for an evening on the river as we wait for the light to fade.

• Master the art of casting in the dark and hopefully experiencing the electrifying feeling of a take in the darkness of night.

• Perfect for those looking for a truly wild, atmospheric Welsh experience.

3. Coastal Fly Fishing (Bass & Mullet)

Wales has a stunning coastline, and chasing Bass or the "Grey Ghost" (Mullet) on a fly rod is a thrill every angler should experience.

• Available seasonally based on tides and weather.

• Great for those looking to transition their skills to the salt.

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4. Guided Coaching & Junior Development

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As a qualified Lead Angling Coach, I specialize in helping beginners find their feet.

• Casting Tuition: although I do not specialise in casting mechanics, I am able to get you started and catching fish.

• Knot Tying &  Set up: Essential "bank-side" skills to make you an independent angler.

• Junior Sessions: Safe, fun, and educational introductions for the next generation.​

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My Fishing Philosophy

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"To fish is to be a student of nature."

My approach to guiding is rooted in three core values:

• Conservation First: I am a firm believer in catch-and-release and "leave no trace" angling. We are guests in these ecosystems, and I’ll show you how to handle fish with the utmost care so they can be caught again by our children.

• The Power of Patience: Whether you're struggling with a tailing loop or trying to find a rising fish, I’m here to support you. There is no pressure—only the joy of being outdoors.

• Continuous Learning: Even after 30 years, I am still learning from the water every day. My goal is for you to leave our session not just with a memory of a fish, but with a new skill or a piece of knowledge that stays with you for life.