Jake Petrasch, fully named Jake John Garrit Petrasch Jr., owns Valley Anglers, located in the scenic Mad River Valley, Vermont. This esteemed fly fishing guide service offers not only guided fishing adventures but also a comprehensive range of fishing gear, including rods, wading equipment, reels, and various storage solutions. The business name stems from the verb "angle," meaning to fish using a hook, which aptly reflects the core activity of the enterprise.

As a multifaceted professional with over two decades of combined experience in Education, property management, site coordination, and fly fishing, he brings a rich background to his ventures. His interests are as diverse as his professional skills, embracing activities like surfing, skateboarding, biking, hunting, and fly fishing both in saltwater and freshwater environments, alongside cherished moments spent with his family.

Education

His academic journey was marked by a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts, which he obtained from St. Lawrence University in Canton, NY, in 2001. He continued his educational pursuits at Johnson State College in Johnson, VT, where he completed his Master's in Education, focusing on middle-level Education, in 2007. His formal Education was further enriched by a semester at the National Outdoor Leadership School, where he earned college credits from the University of Utah from September to December 1996.

Career Spotlights

Over the years, he has embraced various roles, including teacher, site coordinator, property manager, guide, and logistic coordinator. Each role has significantly contributed to his professional versatility and depth.

Valley Anglers LLC, Warren, VT

In 2005, he founded Valley Anglers LLC, driven by his dual passions for teaching and fly fishing. This venture seamlessly blends his educational zeal and love for fly fishing, where he serves as an owner and guide. He imparts knowledge on the finer points of fly fishing, including casting techniques, entomology, and knot tying, catering to clients of varying skill levels.

Counseling Services of Addison County

His formal teaching career commenced in 2010 at the Counseling Services, where he assumed the role of an Alternative Program Head Teacher/Behavior Specialist. Here, he was responsible for educating high school students who were excluded from traditional school settings, designing engaging lesson plans across several disciplines, including math, world studies, language arts, and earth science.

Harwood Union High School, Duxbury, VT

He joined Harwood Union High School in 2012 as a paraeducator, providing both academic and emotional support primarily in the Learning Resource Center. His dedication to student support led him to initiate the "Call Back" academic support program.

Montpelier High School, Montpelier, VT

He transitioned to Montpelier High School in May 2014 as a site coordinator. His responsibilities included running the school's Outing Club and co-teaching a CrossFit program. He emphasized personalized educational experiences aligned with student interests.

Integrated Property Services LLC, Warren, VT

Since April 2018, he has served as the Head Landscaper/Property Manager at Integrated Property Services LLC, managing the maintenance of numerous properties throughout the Mad River Valley. His duties involve in-house diagnostics and general maintenance, ensuring the upkeep of approximately 50 properties.

Personal Life

Born on July 20, 1977, in Fort Worth, Texas, and adopted at just ten days old, he spent much of his early life in Nantucket, where he first developed his lifelong interests. It was during his undergraduate studies that he met his future wife, Andrea, in Canton, NY. The couple was wed in 2005 in Stowe, Vermont.

Fly Fishing

Fly fishing has profoundly shaped his personal and professional life, significantly influencing his path to Sobriety starting in the winter of 1999. His commitment to the sport includes participation in conservation efforts and enjoying both freshwater fly fishing in Vermont and saltwater outings to Belize and Maine.

Additional Interests

His interests do not stop at fly fishing; he is also an avid surfer, motorcyclist, and hunter. Each hobby provides him with a unique connection to nature and adventure, from surfing the coasts of Maine to managing a Harley Davidson motorcycle, a gift from his wife in spring 2024.

Jake Petrasch's Sobriety

He is remarkably open about his journey to Sobriety, a challenging yet rewarding path that he has navigated with determination and resilience. His experiences have not only shaped his character but also allowed him to offer support to others striving for Sobriety. As he continues to lead a life filled with diverse pursuits and commitments, Jake Petrasch remains steadfast, always ready to "Hold Fast" to the values and lessons that define his journey.

Jake Petrasch's Impact on Youth Education Through Outdoor Activities