Marv was born and raised in the small farming community of Urbank, MN. Marv got started in his favorite sport by going bullhead fishing with his dad. His father raised minnows for bait business and was pleased to hear that his son was going to be in the business too. In the Spring of 1961 Marv and his new wife, Judy, started Koep’s Bait Shop along highway 371 in Nisswa and it stayed at that location for 31 years. With their final decision and the push of the Linder brothers, the Nisswa Guides League was formed. Marv has three kids, Shelly, Kevin and Wendy, that were all involved in fishing. The entire faimily is made up of wonderful anglers. Marv has now lived in the Brainerd Lakes area for  over 45 years and has achieved legendary guide status for fishing. He is a member the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame and is a member of the Minnesota Fishing Hall of Fame. He enjoys walleye fishing and especially likes the company of his wife and family while fishing. His favorite method of fishing is back trolling and he loves to take families and elderly fishing. Marv has been guiding for over 40 years ,the longest out of the nisswa guides league, and has the most experience. Marv says “the best time to go fishing is the first chance you get!” Marv has a true love for the sport of fishing and doesn’t ever get tired of trying his luck on the local lakes.