GWGS Guides
Get to know more about GWGS guides Chad and Kris Kieper.
Chad Kieper – Owner and full-time guide
Being born and raised in Minnesota, I have been lucky enough to fish, camp, paddle, and explore the ‘north woods’ for about as long as I can remember. I am excited that my full-time job is now helping others enjoy this beautiful corner of the world.
Ask anyone who knows me how I spend my free time and the answer would certainly be fishing! Not only is it a personal passion, but I get equally excited helping others catch fish too.
If you do find me indoors, its usually to pursue my second hobby – woodworking. Recently I began creating some of the winter pulks we use for hauling gear into the wilderness.
My Experience:
- Over 45 years recreating in the BWCAW, Superior National Forest, and along the North Shore of Minnesota.
- Licensed US Coast Guard Captain – OUPV
- Authorized to operate in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and Superior National Forest under a special use permit from the United States Forest Service.
- Previous coursework in biology, ecology, limnology, ichthyology, wildlife management, etc.
Kris Kieper – Part-time guide
Everything I know about fishing I’ve learned from Chad! I’ll always remember Chad’s enthusiasm when handing me a fishing rod on one of our first dates, and he still gets excited whenever I catch a fish!
I fell in love with the Boundary Waters when I was 14 while on my first canoe camping trip and I went on to major in social environmental studies in college. I spent my professional career in web development and software consulting and have my own consulting business.
I’m excited to participate in GWGS trips whenever an extra set of hands are needed and share what I’ve learned, while helping our guests create memorable wilderness experiences. In particular, I enjoy introducing women to the world of fishing.
