Why is proper fish handling important?

Proper fish handling helps ensure trout survive after they're released. While catch-and-release fishing is an excellent conservation tool, fish can still experience stress during the fight and handling process. By using proper techniques, we help protect Colorado's wild trout populations for future generations.

 

Does Colorado River Outfitters practice catch-and-release fishing?

Yes. Our guided fly fishing trips focus almost exclusively on catch-and-release fishing. We believe releasing healthy fish helps maintain the outstanding wild trout fisheries that make the Colorado River, Eagle River, and Roaring Fork River such incredible destinations.

 

How do your guides handle trout safely?

Our guides are trained in best fish-handling practices. We land fish quickly, use rubber landing nets, keep fish in the water whenever possible, wet our hands before handling them, and minimize the amount of time they're out of the water before release.

 

Why should fish stay in the water?

Keeping trout in the water reduces stress and protects their delicate slime coat, which serves as a natural defense against disease and infection. Whenever possible, we unhook fish while they're still submerged and release them without unnecessary handling.

 

Why do you use rubber landing nets?

Rubber nets are much gentler on trout than traditional nylon nets. They reduce damage to fins, scales, and the fish's protective slime coating while making it easier to safely land and release fish.

 

Should I touch a trout with dry hands?

No. Always wet your hands before touching a trout. Dry hands can remove the fish's protective slime coat, making it more vulnerable to disease and injury after it's released.

 

How long should a fish be out of the water?

As little time as possible. We encourage anglers to keep fish submerged whenever practical and limit photos to just a few seconds. 

 

Do you encourage fish photos?

Absolutely. We love helping guests capture memorable moments. Our guides are experienced at taking quick, high-quality photos while keeping fish handling to a minimum. We'll make sure you leave with great memories while putting the trout's health first.

 

Why do warm water temperatures matter?

As water temperatures rise, trout experience increased stress because warm water contains less dissolved oxygen. Fish become more vulnerable after being caught, even if they're released. That's why our guides closely monitor water temperatures throughout the season.

 

What happens when water temperatures reach 68°F?

When water temperatures approach or exceed 68°F, trout experience significantly higher stress levels after being caught and released. During warm periods, our guides continually monitor river temperatures and adjust locations, start earlier in the day, or end fishing when conditions are no longer safe for the fish.  For more information on water temperatures CLICK HERE.

 

Why do you recommend barbless hooks?

Barbless hooks make releasing fish faster and easier while reducing injury to the trout. They also make hook removal safer for anglers and guides without significantly reducing your chances of landing fish.

 

Does fighting a fish too long harm it?

Yes. Long fights can exhaust trout, especially during warmer water conditions. Our guides teach anglers proper techniques to land fish efficiently, reducing stress and improving the fish's chances of a healthy release.

 

Do your guides teach conservation?

Absolutely. Conservation is a core part of every guided trip. Our guides enjoy sharing knowledge about aquatic insects, trout biology, river ecology, and responsible angling practices so guests leave with a greater appreciation for Colorado's fisheries.

 

Why is conservation so important to Colorado River Outfitters?

Our rivers are more than places we work, they're places we care deeply about. As a guide-owned and guide-operated company, we spend hundreds of days each year on these waters and believe it's our responsibility to protect them. Every trip is an opportunity to educate anglers, promote ethical fishing practices, and help preserve Colorado's incredible trout fisheries for future generations.

 

Can beginners learn proper fish handling?

Absolutely. Whether it's your first trout or your hundredth, our guides will teach you the safest and most effective way to land, handle, photograph, and release fish. Responsible fish care is an important part of every Colorado River Outfitters trip.

 

Have additional questions about fish care?

If you'd like to learn more about catch-and-release fishing, warm water fishing practices, conservation, or how Colorado River Outfitters protects the fisheries we guide every day, we'd love to hear from you. Contact our team anytime—we're always happy to share our passion for healthy rivers, wild trout, and responsible angling.

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