The full-day float is our most popular fly fishing trip during the summer and fall seasons. We offer the option to float three of Colorado’s best trout streams – the Eagle, Roaring Fork and Colorado rivers. This allows our guides to always go where the fishing is best and to accommodate the personal preferences of our clients. This float trip is ideal for both expert anglers looking for a new challenge, and beginners who will benefit from getting closer to the fish. In a single day, anglers are able to take advantage of covering many miles of scenic water that is not accessible by wading.
With plenty of room for two anglers and their gear, all of our float boats are either dory-style drift boats or rubber rafts designed specifically for fly fishing. For fishermen who enjoy wading as well, we can always pull ashore to get up close and personal with an especially productive stretch of water. Full-day float trips last approximately seven to nine hours.
Rod & Reel*
We’ll set you up with a high-quality rod and reel that match your experience level and the trip at hand.
Terminal Tackle*
Included in the price of every trip is all terminal tackle including tippet, split shot, leaders, and strike indicators.
Wading Gear*
Our premium waders and wading boots from Simms will keep you dry (and help you stay upright) in case you decide to leave the boat for some selective wading.
Drift Boat or Raft
Depending on current water levels, our guides will row you in a Clacka Craft Drift boat or NRS Otter Raft. These boats are roomy, comfortable, and designed specifically for fly fishing.
Food
Lunch is included in the cost of our full-day float trips. Build your own streamside sandwiches from a heaping platter of fixin’s, then cap lunch off with a freshly baked cookie or brownie. Or, if you’d rather keep fishing, we can provide pre-made sandwiches so you can eat on the fly. (We gladly accommodate any special dietary requests – just let us know in advance!)
Transportation
We’ll handle all of the driving to and from the river, and can even pick you up from your hotel if you’re staying anywhere in the Vail or Beaver Creek area.
*You’re always welcome to bring your own gear if you’d prefer, however we can’t knock anything off the price for doing so.
Not Provided:
Colorado Fishing License
Fishing licenses are required for all trip participants over the age of 16. If you want to save time you can purchase them online before you arrive, or you can wait and do it at the shop.
Flies
We do this to ensure that you will always have the right flies for the current conditions. Your guide will select the best flies for the day and have them ready to go when you arrive. The unused flies are yours to keep at the end of the day, or you can give them to your guide (who may have dipped into their own selection throughout the day). You may also purchase an unlimited fly package while booking.
Guide Gratuity
Never expected, always appreciated. Our guides work hard to provide you with the best possible experience and appreciate the generosity.
What to Wear
The weather in the Colorado Rockies is unpredictable and always changing. It is important to head out on the water prepared for the full range of conditions. Also, please keep in mind that you'll be fishing at high altitude – hydration and sun protection are key. Here is how we recommend dressing for a Full-Day Float Trip:
Summer:
Top
Breathable shirt or sun hoody. Light fleece layer for cold, early mornings. Light, packable rain jacket.
Bottom
Breathable pants or shorts.
Footwear
Sandals or water shoes with good traction (like Tevas or Chacos). Wet-wading sandals or wading boots with guard socks.
Accessories
Sun hat and polarized sunglasses.
Spring and Fall
Top
Baselayer or long underwear that wicks moisture and dries quickly. Insulating midlayer (fleece, down, or synthetic). Waterproof/breathable shell.
Bottom
Baselayer or long underwear that wicks moisture and dries quickly. Waterproof/breathable shell.
Footwear
Sandals or water shoes with good traction (like Tevas or Chacos). Wet-wading sandals or wading boots with guard socks. Wool or synthetic socks to wear with boots and waders on cooler days.
Accessories
Sun hat and polarized sunglasses. Light gloves or hand liners.
Don't stress if you're missing something from this list – our retail store is fully stocked with everything you could need for your fly fishing trip. If you can arrive a few minutes early, our retail staff will get you set up with any fishing attire you need.
