Who are the guides at Colorado River Outfitters?

The guides at Colorado River Outfitters are full-time professionals who are passionate about fly fishing, river safety, and creating unforgettable experiences for every guest. As a guide-owned and guide-operated outfitter, our team is made up of experienced anglers who spend hundreds of days each year on Colorado's rivers, constantly refining their skills and staying on top of changing fishing conditions.  To learn more about our guides CLICK HERE

 

What makes Colorado River Outfitters' guides different?

Our guide team averages 18.5 years of professional guiding experience, making us one of the most experienced fly fishing guide staffs in Colorado. Every guide is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service, expert instruction, and a safe, enjoyable day on the water. Whether you're a first-time angler or a seasoned fly fisher, you'll benefit from decades of local knowledge and hands-on experience.

 

Are your guides licensed and insured?

Yes. Colorado River Outfitters is fully licensed and insured, and our professional guides meet all required state and local regulations. Safety, professionalism, and conservation are at the core of everything we do.

 

Are your guides full-time professionals?

Yes. Guiding isn't a side job for our team—it's a career. Our guides spend the majority of the year on the water, allowing them to stay current on river conditions, insect hatches, seasonal trout behavior, and the techniques that consistently produce fish.

 

Can beginners fish with your guides?

Absolutely. Teaching is one of our greatest passions. Whether you've never held a fly rod before or simply want to improve your skills, our guides provide patient, personalized instruction that helps anglers of every age and experience level enjoy success on the water.

 

Can advanced anglers learn from your guides?

Definitely. Many experienced fly fishers book trips specifically to improve their techniques. Our guides regularly teach advanced nymphing, dry fly presentations, streamer fishing, reading water, fly selection, casting refinements, and river strategy to help anglers become more effective.

 

Can I request a specific guide?

Yes. If you've fished with one of our guides before or have a preferred guide, simply let us know when booking your trip. We'll do everything we can to accommodate your request based on availability.

 

Which rivers do your guides fish?

Our guides regularly fish and guide on many of western Colorado's premier trout rivers, including the Colorado River, Eagle River, Roaring Fork River, Fryingpan River, and other nearby fisheries. Because we're on the water every day, we know where conditions are best and can recommend the ideal destination for your trip.

 

Do your guides provide all of the equipment?

Yes. We provide premium fly rods, reels, flies, terminal tackle, waders, and boots when needed. Our guides arrive prepared with everything necessary so you can focus on enjoying your day on the river.  We never charge for flies.

 

Do your guides teach casting and fly fishing techniques?

Absolutely. Every guided trip includes as much instruction as you'd like. Whether you're learning the basics or fine-tuning advanced presentations, our guides enjoy helping anglers become more confident and successful.

 

Will my guide clean or fillet fish?

Our guided fly fishing trips focus almost exclusively on catch-and-release fishing to protect Colorado's incredible wild trout fisheries. Our guides also teach proper fish handling techniques that promote healthy releases and long-term conservation.  We do not allow catch and keep on any guide trips.

 

Do your guides know which flies are working?

Yes. Because our guides fish nearly every day, they're constantly monitoring insect hatches, water temperatures, river flows, and trout behavior. Every morning, they select flies and techniques based on the latest conditions to maximize your chances for success.

 

Are your guides good with kids and families?

Absolutely. Many of our guides are experienced in teaching children and creating memorable family fishing adventures. They know how to keep young anglers engaged, make learning fun, and tailor the trip to each family's experience level and goals.

 

Can your guides accommodate corporate groups and large parties?

Yes. Colorado River Outfitters regularly guides corporate outings, executive retreats, employee appreciation events, family reunions, bachelor parties, and other large groups. Our experienced team coordinates multiple guides and boats to ensure every guest receives personalized attention.

 

What is your guides' philosophy?

Our guides believe a successful trip is about much more than catching fish. We strive to create memorable experiences through exceptional instruction, outstanding customer service, professionalism, conservation, and genuine hospitality. Whether you're landing your first trout or your hundredth, our goal is for every guest to leave with new knowledge, lasting memories, and a deeper appreciation for Colorado's rivers.

 

Why do guests continue to fish with Colorado River Outfitters?

Many of our guests return year after year because they know they'll receive consistent service from some of the most experienced guides in the region. As the "Best Fly Fishing Outfitter" in the Vail Valley (Vail Daily) and the preferred fly fishing partner for several premier luxury resorts, we're proud of the lasting relationships we've built with anglers and families from around the world.

 

Have additional questions about our guides?

We're always happy to help. If you'd like to learn more about our guide team, request a specific guide, or find the best match for your experience level and fishing goals, contact Colorado River Outfitters today. We'll help you choose the perfect guide for an unforgettable day on the Colorado River, Eagle River, Roaring Fork River, or one of western Colorado's many incredible trout streams.

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Call or Text: 970-236-1937      Email: flyfish@coloradoriveroutfitters.net