About Mike
Hi, I’m Mike Heck, owner of DIY Adventure Consultants.
I’ve been adventuring for over two decades, and on the majority of my trips I’ve been the trip leader and primary planner. I’m excited to learn about your outdoor goals and share my detailed research and planning skills with you.
I grew up in the Bay Area and spent much of my free time outdoors. First it was playing a myriad of sports, later it was fishing for largemouth bass in local reservoirs and trout in the Sierra. I moved from California to Corvallis, Oregon in 1998 to pursue a B.S. in Fisheries and Wildlife Science from Oregon State University. Nine years later I earned a Master’s degree in Fisheries Science from OSU and began a career as a fish biologist for the state of Oregon and the U.S. Geological Survey. My research primarily focused on headwater streams and their native fishes in arid landscapes across the West. I hung up my USGS waders in 2019 to charge my batteries, change my trajectory, and start DIY Adventure Consultants.
Along my side through this life adventure has been my wife of 14 years, Nicole, and our 11-year old son. Our home base remains Corvallis, OR, but many months of the year you can find me in my tent, on my paco pad, or hauling my travel trailer across the west. I look forward to working with you and can’t wait to see where your adventures take you.
Q & A
Mike’s favorite species to hunt?
Chasing Rocky Mountain elk in the Intermountain West takes dedication, fitness, skill, patience, and a bit of luck. I love it! Pronghorn antelope are a very close second because they’re so darn delicious.
Mike’s favorite river to raft?
It’s tough to beat the Colorado through the Grand Canyon: big water and breathtaking scenery with some of the most complicated logistics. I’ve twice rowed my 14’ raft down its 280 miles, in 2019 and 2021. I can’t wait to get back for a third trip, but next time with my whole family.
Mike’s favorite place to backpack?
The Sierra Nevada have a special place in my heart. Outstanding scenery, predictable mountain weather (except for that one time), and an abundance of options for off trail travel (my favorite). I’ve spent over 50 nights in the Range of Light and feel like I’ve only scratched the surface.
What does Mike do when he’s not hunting, rafting, or backpacking?
I love watching my son play soccer, believing in my OSU Beavs, and working in the yard. Several weeks a year I teach outdoor school to 6th graders across Oregon. And many a March you can find my family and I exploring our favorite National Park, Death Valley.
Contact Us
Tap into our decades of outdoor experience and let us help you take the first step towards the adventure of your dreams. Contact us to schedule a FREE consultation.