Frequently Asked Questions - Travel
Where should I stay for my guided fly fishing trip?
Colorado River Outfitters guides throughout the Vail Valley, Glenwood Springs, Aspen, and the Roaring Fork Valley, making it easy to find accommodations close to great fishing. Whether you're staying in Vail, Beaver Creek, Avon, Edwards, Eagle, Carbondale, Glenwood Springs, or Aspen, we'll recommend the best meeting location for your trip.
Do you offer guided fly fishing trips for guests staying in Denver or Colorado Springs?
Yes. While CRO is based in the Vail Valley, we regularly work with anglers traveling from Denver and Colorado Springs. Depending on the season, current conditions and the type of fishing you're looking for, we can recommend opportunities on the Colorado, Eagle, Roaring Fork or Arkansas Rivers. Contact us before booking and we'll help determine the best option based on where you're staying.
Which town is best for a fly fishing vacation?
Each mountain town offers something unique. Vail and Beaver Creek provide luxury accommodations and world-class dining, Glenwood Springs is known for its hot springs and convenient access to multiple rivers, while Aspen and Carbondale offer incredible scenery, vibrant downtowns, and excellent access to the Roaring Fork River.
Which airport should I fly into?
Most guests fly into Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE), located about 30 minutes from Vail. Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) is convenient for Roaring Fork River trips, while Denver International Airport (DEN) offers the greatest number of flights and is approximately two to three hours from the Vail Valley.
How early should I arrive before my fishing trip?
We recommend arriving at least one day before your scheduled trip whenever possible. This allows time to relax, adjust to Colorado's elevation, and ensures you're ready for an early morning on the river.
Do I need to rent a car?
Not always. Many guests staying in Vail or Beaver Creek rely on resort transportation, ride-share services, or hotel shuttles. If you're planning to explore multiple mountain towns during your vacation, a rental car offers additional flexibility.
Where will I meet my guide?
Your guide will provide a detailed meeting location before your trip. Meeting locations vary depending on the river you'll be fishing and are selected to make your day as convenient as possible.
Can you recommend hotels and resorts?
Absolutely. We regularly work with many of the area's premier hotels and luxury resorts throughout Vail, Beaver Creek, Glenwood Springs, and Aspen. We're happy to recommend accommodations based on your budget, travel plans, and preferred fishing destination.
What else is there to do besides fishing?
The Vail Valley and Roaring Fork Valley offer endless outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, golf, scenic gondola rides, hot springs, horseback riding, shopping, and outstanding restaurants. Many families combine a guided fly fishing trip with several days of exploring Colorado's mountain communities.
Is fly fishing a good family vacation activity?
Absolutely. Guided fly fishing is a fun, educational experience that brings families together while exploring some of Colorado's most beautiful rivers. Many of our guests tell us it's one of the highlights of their vacation.
What should I pack for my trip?
Bring layered clothing, a rain jacket, comfortable outdoor shoes, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and any personal medications. Mountain weather can change quickly, so dressing in layers is always recommended.
Do I need to bring my own fly fishing equipment?
No. We provide premium rods, reels, flies, leaders, terminal tackle, and waders when needed. If you have favorite equipment, you're welcome to bring it, but most guests simply use ours.
Do I need a Colorado fishing license?
Yes. Anyone age 16 or older must have a valid Colorado fishing license before fishing. We'll send you everything you need to purchase your license quickly before your trip. You can purchase a license online HERE.
What is the best time of year to visit?
Colorado offers exceptional fly fishing year around, with each season providing unique opportunities. Spring brings prolific insect hatches, summer offers outstanding dry fly fishing, and fall is famous for aggressive trout and beautiful autumn scenery. We'll help you choose the best dates based on your goals.
What wildlife might we see?
Wildlife sightings are common on our rivers. Guests frequently see bald eagles, osprey, mule deer, elk, river otters, beavers, bighorn sheep, and occasionally black bears. Even on slower fishing days, the scenery and wildlife make for an unforgettable experience.
Why choose Colorado River Outfitters during your Colorado vacation?
As a guide-owned and guide-operated company, Colorado River Outfitters offers personalized service from the moment you book until the end of your trip. Our experienced guides average 18.5 years of professional guiding experience, we've been named the Best Fly Fishing Outfitter in the Vail Valley, and we're the preferred fly fishing partner for several of the area's premier luxury resorts. Whether you're visiting Vail, Glenwood Springs, Aspen, or Beaver Creek, we'll help make your Colorado vacation one to remember.
How close is the fishing to Vail?
Some of Colorado's best fly fishing is just minutes from Vail. The Eagle River flows directly through the Vail Valley, while the Colorado River and Roaring Fork River are all within a short drive. Whether you're looking for a half-day adventure or a full-day float trip, you'll spend more time fishing and less time driving.
Can I fly fish while staying in Beaver Creek?
Absolutely. Beaver Creek is centrally located near several of Colorado's premier trout rivers, including the Eagle River and Colorado River. Our guides regularly pick up guests staying in Beaver Creek and will recommend the best fishing destination based on current river conditions and your experience level.
Is Aspen a good destination for fly fishing?
Yes. Aspen is home to some of Colorado's most scenic and productive trout water. The Roaring Fork River flows through the heart of the valley and offers outstanding opportunities for wild brown and rainbow trout, while nearby rivers and streams provide exceptional fishing throughout the season.
Where can I fly fish near Glenwood Springs?
Glenwood Springs is one of Colorado's premier fly fishing destinations. Located at the confluence of the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers, anglers have easy access to miles of exceptional trout water. It's an ideal location for both float trips and walk-and-wade adventures.
What is the closest river to Vail?
The Eagle River is the closest and most accessible trout river for visitors staying in Vail, Avon, Edwards, or Beaver Creek. Depending on current fishing conditions, our guides may also recommend nearby sections of the Colorado River for an unforgettable day on the water.
Can I combine fly fishing with a family vacation?
Absolutely. Guided fly fishing is one of the most popular outdoor activities for families visiting Colorado. Many guests spend one day fishing and the rest of their vacation exploring hiking trails, scenic gondolas, hot springs, shopping, restaurants, and the many attractions throughout the Vail Valley and Roaring Fork Valley.
What is the weather like during fly fishing season?
Mountain weather can change quickly, which is why we always recommend dressing in layers. Spring and fall mornings can be cool, while summer afternoons are often warm with the possibility of brief afternoon thunderstorms. Our guides monitor conditions daily and will let you know exactly what to expect before your trip.
How many days should I plan for a Colorado fly fishing vacation?
While many visitors enjoy a single day on the river, we often recommend two or three days of fishing if your schedule allows. Multiple days provide the opportunity to experience different rivers, improve your skills, explore new techniques, and enjoy a more complete Colorado fly fishing experience.
Do you offer gift certificates or vacation gifts?
Yes. Colorado River Outfitters offers gift certificates for guided fly fishing trips, making them a perfect gift for birthdays, anniversaries, Father's Day, Mother's Day, holidays, retirement celebrations, weddings, and corporate incentives. Gift certificates can be purchased for any trip or dollar amount.
Can you help us plan our fly fishing vacation?
Absolutely. Our team is happy to help you plan every aspect of your fishing adventure. We'll recommend the best rivers, ideal travel dates, nearby accommodations, local dining, and the type of trip that best fits your group's goals. Whether you're visiting Vail, Beaver Creek, Glenwood Springs, Aspen, or Carbondale, we'll help make planning easy so you can focus on enjoying your Colorado vacation.
Have additional questions or concerns? Contact us!
We're here to help! If you have questions about planning your trip, choosing the right river, selecting the best dates, booking a family or corporate outing, or anything else, our team is just a phone call or email away. As a guide-owned and guide-operated outfitter, we're happy to provide personalized recommendations based on your experience level, travel plans, and fishing goals. Contact Colorado River Outfitters today—we look forward to helping you plan an unforgettable fly fishing adventure in Vail, Glenwood Springs, Aspen, and throughout Colorado's beautiful mountain rivers.
Call: 970-236-1937 Email: flyfish@coloradoriveroutfitters.net