Meet the Guides
Meet the AZ Legend Adventures Team
When you book a trip with AZ Legend Adventures, you’re not just signing up for a tour—you’re heading out on the river with a team of passionate locals who truly love what they do.
Our guides grew up exploring the Verde Valley, fishing its waters, paddling its rivers, and learning every hidden corner of the landscape. From secret fishing holes to scenic river bends that most visitors never see, our team brings years of experience and local knowledge to every trip.
Whether you're kayaking the Verde River, learning the art of fly fishing, or hiking into remote waters for trout, our guides are here to make sure your adventure is safe, exciting, and unforgettable.
Meet the people who make AZ Legend Adventures truly legendary.
Caleb Labarda — Owner & Founder
If there’s one person who truly knows the Verde River, it’s Caleb.
Born and raised in Cottonwood, Arizona, Caleb grew up with the Verde River practically in his backyard. From the moment he was old enough to hold a fishing rod, he was out exploring the riverbanks, learning how bass and trout behave, and discovering hidden fishing spots that most people never find.
Fishing quickly became more than a hobby—it became a lifelong passion.
Those early days on the river eventually led Caleb to create AZ Legend Adventures, a guide service built around sharing the incredible outdoor experiences he grew up enjoying.
Today, Caleb is a licensed Arizona fishing guide who spends countless days on the water helping visitors experience the beauty of the Verde River. His deep local knowledge allows him to take guests to private access areas and secluded fishing holes that few anglers ever see.
But what really sets Caleb apart is his approach to guiding.
He’s patient, friendly, and passionate about teaching others how to fish and enjoy the river. Whether you're casting for the first time or you're an experienced angler looking to land a trophy bass, Caleb adapts each trip to your skill level.
Safety is always a top priority. Every guest receives the proper equipment, safety instructions, and guidance needed to feel confident and comfortable on the water.
Most importantly, Caleb wants every trip to feel like an adventure with friends—because that’s exactly how he treats every group that joins him on the river.
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Joshua “Salty” Mathews — Head Fly Fishing Guide
Josh Mathews, known by many anglers as “Salty,” brings decades of fly fishing knowledge and passion to the AZ Legend Adventures team.
Josh was born in the rugged mountains of Colorado, where his grandfather first introduced him to fly fishing. Those early days learning the rhythm of casting and reading mountain streams sparked a love for the sport that would shape the rest of his life.
When his family moved to Arizona’s Verde Valley at age six, Josh discovered a whole new world of fishing opportunities. What started as childhood curiosity quickly turned into a serious pursuit of mastering the craft.
Over the years, Josh built a reputation in the fly fishing community through his work with:
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Salty Fresh Flies L.L.C.
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High-N-Dry On The Fly Outfitters L.L.C.
After more than a decade guiding anglers across Arizona waters, Josh teamed up with childhood friend Caleb to join forces at AZ Legend Adventures.
Together, they’ve created one of the most unique fishing experiences in the region.
Josh specializes in crafting unforgettable fly fishing trips targeting species like:
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Trout
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Bass
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Carp
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Pike
His adventures can take anglers into remote canyons, peaceful lakes, or pristine creeks tucked away in Arizona’s wild landscapes.
One of the coolest parts of fishing with Josh? Every fly used on his trips is hand-tied by him.
Each fly is carefully crafted with precision and experience, designed specifically for Arizona waters.
Josh’s guiding style blends skill, storytelling, and a deep respect for the outdoors. Whether you're a seasoned fly angler or stepping into waders for the first time, he makes every trip both educational and exciting.
Lindsay Favrow — Kayak Guide & Licensed Fishing Guide
Lindsay Favrow grew up surrounded by the incredible landscapes of the Verde Valley, and her love for the outdoors has shaped nearly every part of her life.
As a guide with AZ Legend Adventures, Lindsay shares that passion by helping visitors experience the beauty and magic of the Verde River in a fun and responsible way.
Her goal on every trip is simple: create unforgettable adventures while keeping safety a top priority.
Lindsay is a certified Wilderness First Responder, meaning she brings advanced safety training and preparedness to every outing. Whether guests are paddling the river or casting a line, she ensures everyone feels comfortable and confident during the adventure.
But beyond her technical skills, Lindsay’s enthusiasm for the outdoors is contagious.
When she’s not guiding trips, you’ll likely find her:
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Camping
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Hunting
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Fishing
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Stargazing
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Cooking outdoors
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Teaching yoga
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Exploring new adventures with her kids
Nature is a huge part of her life, and she loves helping others reconnect with the outdoors in meaningful ways.
Her approach to guiding focuses on fun, learning, and responsible recreation, ensuring that the Verde River remains a beautiful place for future generations to enjoy.
Seth Morgan — Head Kayak Guide
Seth Morgan is another true Cottonwood local, and like many on the AZ Legend Adventures team, he grew up exploring the Verde River.
For Seth, the river has always been more than just a place to kayak—it’s been a playground, a classroom, and a lifelong adventure.
Having spent years paddling and playing along the Verde River, Seth knows how to navigate its bends, currents, and hidden scenic spots better than most.
Guests quickly discover that Seth brings a fun, easygoing energy to every trip. His trips are packed with laughter, great stories, and plenty of local knowledge about the area.
Whether you're new to kayaking or you've paddled rivers all over the country, Seth makes sure your adventure is both safe and unforgettable.
Expect a fun-filled, relaxed experience with incredible views and plenty of great moments along the way.
Why Our Guides Make the Experience Special
At AZ Legend Adventures, the guides are what truly make the difference.
When you head out on the river with us, you're not just following a map—you’re exploring with locals who have spent their lives learning these waters.
Our team provides:
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Deep local knowledge of the Verde River
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Safe, professional guiding
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Friendly and welcoming personalities
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Trips tailored for all skill levels
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Access to hidden and private river sections
Every guide is passionate about helping guests experience the outdoors in a way that’s exciting, safe, and memorable.
Join Us for an Adventure on the Verde River
Whether you want to paddle scenic waters, chase bass and trout, or learn the art of fly fishing, the AZ Legend Adventures team is ready to guide you.
Grab your friends, bring your sense of adventure, and come experience the Verde River with guides who truly know and love this place.