Upper Colorado River Guided Fly Fishing Trip

If you’re dreaming of spending a few hours surrounded by mountain views, the gentle flow of a river, and the thrill of catching trout, then this Upper Colorado River Guided Fly Fishing Trip might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t tried it myself, I’ve gone through plenty of reviews and tour details to give you a clear picture of what such an experience might offer.

What really caught my attention are two things: how knowledgeable the guides are, making it accessible whether you’re a seasoned angler or a complete beginner, and the stunning natural scenery—think clear waters, mountain vistas, and peaceful surroundings. On the flip side, a bit of a consideration is that you’ll need to bring your own fishing license, which adds an extra step before you can start casting.

This tour seems best suited for outdoor enthusiasts who want a short but meaningful escape into nature, especially those curious about fly fishing or looking for a relaxing, scenic activity during a Colorado trip. If you enjoy being on the water with expert guidance and don’t mind a small group, this trip could be a memorable part of your adventure.

Key Points

• Expert guidance makes fly fishing accessible for all skill levels.
• Stunning mountain scenery enhances the peaceful experience.
• The variety of trout species, including brown, rainbow, and cutthroat, adds excitement.
• The experience is short (4 hours), ideal for fitting into a busy travel schedule.
• Small group size (limited to 2 participants) ensures personalized attention.
• Price point ($544 per person) reflects a guided, all-in-one nature and fishing experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Upper Colorado River Fly Fishing Trip

This guided fly fishing outing is about more than just catching fish; it’s about enjoying the quiet beauty of Colorado’s wilderness. The tour generally lasts around four hours, usually booked in the morning, giving you a good chunk of time to relax, learn, and maybe land a few trout.

The Meeting Point & Logistics

Your adventure begins at AVA Rafting and Zipline, a well-known provider in the area. From there, you’ll meet your guide, who is described as knowledgeable and friendly, ready to help you with techniques or just offer some quiet tips if you’re an experienced angler. The small group size, limited to just two participants, means you’ll receive personalized guidance, which is especially beneficial if you’re new to fly fishing.

What You’ll Do

The main focus is on learning how to fly fish and putting that knowledge into practice. Your guide will teach you the basics, or if you’re more experienced, help refine your technique. Expect to cast lines into the cool, clear waters of the river, aiming to reel in brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout.

Reeling in these fish isn’t just about the catch; it’s about the process—the rhythm of casting, the sound of water flowing, and the chance to connect with nature. Multiple reviews highlight how guides are very knowledgeable, providing tips and ensuring everyone feels confident and involved.

The Scenery & Environment

This part of Colorado is renowned for its beautiful mountain views and serene river settings. As you stand in the water, surrounded by peaks and lush greenery, it’s easy to forget your worries. Many guests mention the soothing sound of the river and the chances to take photos of the landscape, making the experience not just about fishing but also about appreciating the environment.

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The Fish & Success Rate

While catching fish isn’t guaranteed, the opportunity to reel in various trout species increases your chances of success. The river’s reputation for being abundant with fish makes this a promising outing, especially if you’re willing to practice a bit of patience and follow your guide’s advice.

What to Bring & Wear

To get the most out of your trip, you’ll want to come prepared with a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes. The guide recommends dressing in layers, as mountain weather can change quickly. No fishing license is included, so don’t forget to bring yours beforehand—something to keep in mind if you’re visiting from out of state or abroad.

The Value of the Experience

At $544 per person, this trip might seem on the pricier side for a four-hour outing, but considering it includes expert instruction, guidance, and the setting, many see it as a worthwhile investment. The personalized attention from guides makes a difference, especially if you’re just starting out or want to improve your technique.

Plus, this isn’t just about catching fish. It’s about relaxation, learning, and creating lasting memories in a landscape many travelers find rejuvenating. It’s a good way to get a taste of fly fishing without committing to a full-day or multi-day trip, making it flexible for different itineraries.

How This Trip Compares to Other Colorado Experiences

If you’re exploring other outdoor activities in Colorado, you might want to check out whitewater rafting, e-bike tours, or longer rafting adventures, many of which are also offered by AVA Rafting & Zipline. These experiences often come with their own unique thrills, but if your focus is on fishing and tranquility, this guided trip stands out for its combination of skill-building and scenery.

Who Will Love This Tour

This activity is perfect for beginners eager to learn fly fishing or more experienced anglers looking for a peaceful day on the water with expert guides. Since the group is limited to two, it offers a quiet, personalized experience that can suit travelers wanting something more intimate.

It’s also great if you’re traveling with someone who appreciates nature, quiet mornings, and scenic views. However, if you’re looking for a full-day adventure or a highly competitive fishing outing, this might feel a bit short and relaxed for you.

Final Thoughts

For those wanting a short, guided introduction to fly fishing set against Colorado’s stunning mountain backdrop, this trip hits many sweet spots. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, and the scenery provides a peaceful escape into nature. It’s a chance to learn, relax, and maybe even catch a trout or two, all in a manageable four-hour window.

While the price might seem high at first glance, it’s quite reasonable considering the level of instruction, scenery, and the chance to connect with nature in a meaningful way. Whether you’re a fishing novice or just looking for a tranquil outdoor activity, this tour offers a solid balance of skill, scenery, and serenity.

FAQ

Do I need a fishing license for this trip?
Yes, a fishing license is not included in the price, so you’ll need to bring your own. This is an important step before heading out.

What skill level is suitable for this trip?
The guide provides expert instruction suitable for all skill levels, from complete beginners to seasoned anglers. The small group size helps tailor the experience.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes. Dressing in layers is recommended, as mountain weather can change.

How long is the trip?
The experience lasts about four hours, usually scheduled in the morning, making it perfect for fitting into a busy day.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed as family-oriented, the activity could be suitable for older children or teenagers interested in fishing, provided they can handle a few hours outdoors.

What kind of fish might I catch?
You could reel in brown, rainbow, or cutthroat trout, as the river is known for its variety of trout species.

What is the group size?
The trip is limited to just two participants, ensuring a more personalized and focused experience.

If you’re looking to combine scenic beauty, learning a new skill, and spending time in nature, this guided fly fishing trip on the Upper Colorado River could be a memorable highlight of your Colorado visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: