Meet the Guides

At Livin' the Dream Guide Service, we boast a team of professional fishing guides who are among the best in the business. Our highly skilled guides are not only passionate about fishing but also dedicated to providing an exceptional experience for every guest. Whether you're targeting trophy musky, smallmouth bass, or inshore saltwater species, our guides have the expertise to help you achieve your fishing goals. With multiple guides available, we can accommodate any group size—from individual anglers seeking a solo adventure to large groups, family outings, or corporate events. Our ability to provide customized trips with top-rated fishing guides ensures that every guest enjoys a memorable and successful day on the water, making Livin' the Dream Guide Service your go-to choice for guided fishing adventures in Minnesota and Florida.

Owner: Capt. Luke Swanson

Captain Luke Swanson is the dedicated owner and head guide of Livin' the Dream Guide Service. Growing up with a deep-rooted passion for fishing and the thrill of catching trophy fish, Luke began his guiding career at Alagnak Lodge in Alaska, where he refined his skills in some of the most challenging and rewarding waters. This early experience laid the foundation for his path as a full-time guide, allowing him to split his seasons between Brainerd, Minnesota, during the summer and fall, and Fort Myers, Florida, during the winter and spring. This unique schedule enables Lucas to offer guided fishing trips 365 days a year.

Luke captains a 24-foot Skeeter Bay boat, designed to comfortably accommodate the whole family for unforgettable fishing adventures. As a licensed Coast Guard Captain and CPR certified, Lucas is committed to ensuring a safe, fun, and memorable experience on the water.

Beyond his guiding expertise, Luke guides over 330 trips per year, demonstrating his dedication and unmatched work ethic in the industry. He has built a reputation for his relentless pursuit of trophy fish, specializing in musky, smallmouth bass, and walleye in Minnesota. In Florida he specializes in tarpon, goliath grouper, snook and redfish. His accomplishments include guiding numerous clients to their first or largest catches, earning recognition as a top guide in both the Midwest and Florida waters. When he’s not on the water, Luke loves to hunt, embracing his passion for the outdoors year-round. His personal achievements are equally impressive—he’s caught countless trophy muskies, and his dedication to conservation and ethical angling practices ensures that these incredible fish will be around for future generations. Known for his patience, passion, and unparalleled knowledge of the waters he fishes, Luke commitment to his craft makes every trip with Livin' the Dream Guide Service one to remember.

Capt. David Holmes

David Holmes grew up in the Midwest along the St. Croix River and has been passionate about fishing for as long as he can remember. Specializing in targeting trophy musky and smallmouth bass, David loves fishing on rivers using both conventional and fly tackle. He enjoys introducing others to the incredible fishing opportunities that the rivers of Minnesota and Wisconsin have to offer.

David grew up in the Midwest fishing his whole life, and later started spending a lot of my time during the winters traveling around the world learning the ins and outs of saltwater species and fisheries! David has spent time fishing in the Bahamas, Mexico, Hawaii, and of course Florida developing an understanding of a wide range of species present in saltwater environments. The Fort Myers area and Pine Island Sound is a truly special fishery! A USCG Licensed Captain, and have a passion for showing people the incredible experiences that the waters in our area have to offer!

Joe Billiar

Joe, born and raised in southern Minnesota, has spent his summers on the water since he was just 6 months old. With a lifelong passion for fishing, Joe is dedicated to guiding others in the pursuit of their next catch. Whether exploring hidden fishing spots or navigating larger bodies of water, he is committed to sharing his knowledge and teaching everything he knows about the bite.

Capt. Ben Fries

Minnesotan born and raised, Benjamin is addicted to time on the water with tight lines. Having cut his teeth in the Leech Lake area he has always found fishing experiences that offer wonderful (even unforgettable) memories in the years to come. Passion and profession have found harmony when it comes to Ben’s time in a boat; and, he is excited to share his knowledge and experience with you during your time on the water together.

Kenny Swanson

Kenny Swanson has a deep passion for fishing and spear fishing, a tradition that has been in his family for generations. From his grandfather to his father, himself, and now his children, Kenny has cherished the unique experience of fishing. He vividly remembers the first time he watched a northern pike come into the spear hole after his dad’s bait, sparking a lifelong love for the sport.

Kenny raised his three boys out fishing and looking down a 3' x 4' hole in the ice, creating unforgettable family moments. Today, as a real estate professional, he enjoys the flexibility to share his passion for fishing and spearing with others. Kenny looks forward to seeing you out on the water, ready to make memories of your own.