Our Rivers We Guide
Colorado
The Colorado River is one of the West's most iconic trout fisheries and the heart of many Colorado River Outfitters guide trips. Flowing through breathtaking canyons and mountain valleys, this freestone river offers incredible opportunities to catch wild brown and rainbow trout while enjoying some of Colorado's most scenic landscapes. We primarily guide the productive stretches between Pumphouse, State Bridge, and Glenwood Springs, where healthy trout populations, diverse aquatic insect hatches, and miles of fishable water create exceptional opportunities throughout the season. Whether you're looking to experience the excitement of a guided float trip, learn new fly fishing techniques, or simply enjoy a relaxing day on the water, the Colorado River offers an unforgettable fly fishing adventure for anglers of all experience levels.
The Eagle River is one of Colorado's premier freestone trout streams and a favorite among both our guides and returning clients. Known for its outstanding float trips, productive walk & wade fishing, and exciting dry fly action, the Eagle offers a diverse fishery that shines throughout the season. From Golden Stoneflies and caddis hatches in early summer to hopper fishing later in the year, anglers can enjoy some of the state's most memorable dry fly opportunities. The Eagle is also one of our favorite shoulder-season fisheries, producing excellent fishing during both spring and fall when many Colorado rivers see fewer anglers. Whether you're floating miles of productive water or carefully stalking trout on foot, the Eagle River delivers a rewarding experience for beginners and seasoned fly fishers alike.
Widely regarded as one of the finest trout streams in the country, the Roaring Fork River is a true bucket-list destination for fly anglers. This world-class freestone fishery offers exceptional float trips, healthy populations of wild brown and rainbow trout, and some of Colorado's most exciting dry fly fishing. From explosive caddis hatches and Golden Stoneflies to hoppers and Blue Wing Olives, the Roaring Fork provides outstanding surface action throughout the season. Combined with its breathtaking scenery and miles of productive water, it's easy to see why the Roaring Fork is considered one of the premier guided fly fishing destinations in the West. Whether you're floating through Glenwood Canyon or casting to rising trout on a summer afternoon, the Roaring Fork delivers an unforgettable day on the water.
The Frying Pan River is one of the most legendary tailwaters in the West, renowned for its crystal-clear water, abundant insect life, and exceptional trout fishing. Flowing below Ruedi Reservoir, the "Pan" is famous for its prolific midge, Blue Wing Olive, PMD, and caddis hatches, creating outstanding opportunities for both technical nymphing and rewarding dry fly fishing. Home to large, healthy rainbow and brown trout, this iconic river challenges experienced anglers while remaining an incredible place to learn from one of our professional guides. Whether you're sight fishing to rising trout in its clear currents or refining your presentation on one of Colorado's most technical fisheries, the Frying Pan offers an unforgettable fly fishing experience in a spectacular mountain setting.
The Arkansas River Tailwater below Pueblo Reservoir is one of southern Colorado's most dependable trout fisheries and an outstanding destination for anglers looking to fish close to the Front Range. Fed by cold, consistent releases from Pueblo Reservoir, this unique tailwater supports healthy populations of rainbow and brown trout along with reliable insect hatches throughout much of the year. Its convenient location—less than an hour from Colorado Springs and an easy drive from Denver—makes it one of the most accessible guided fly fishing destinations in the state. Whether you're learning the fundamentals of fly fishing or looking to refine your nymphing and dry fly techniques, the Arkansas River Tailwater offers a rewarding day on the water without the long drive into the high country.
Texas
When winter arrives in Colorado, part of the Colorado River Outfitters guide team heads south to New Braunfels, Texas, to guide on the legendary Guadalupe River—the southernmost trout stream in the United States. Flowing below Canyon Lake, this unique tailwater provides exceptional trout fishing from November through March, offering anglers the opportunity to catch healthy rainbow trout in a setting unlike anywhere else in the country. Mild winter weather, dependable water temperatures, and consistent insect activity make the Guadalupe a premier cold-weather destination for fly anglers looking to extend their season. Whether you're escaping northern winters or planning your first Texas trout adventure, our experienced guides are ready to help you experience one of the country's most unique fly fishing destinations.
Wyoming
Each spring, part of the Colorado River Outfitters guide team heads north to Thermopolis, Wyoming, to guide on one of the West's most celebrated trout fisheries—the Bighorn River. From April through June, we offer professionally guided float trips during the river's prime spring season, when prolific hatches, ideal water conditions, and aggressive trout create some of the best fishing of the year. Floating the famous Wedding of the Waters, where the Wind River officially becomes the Bighorn River, anglers have the opportunity to target trophy brown and rainbow trout in one of the most productive tailwaters in the country. Whether you're experiencing the Bighorn for the first time or returning to one of your favorite fisheries, our experienced guides provide everything needed for an unforgettable Wyoming fly fishing adventure.