Beginner Fly Fishing Near Montrose, Colorado
Beginner Fly Fishing Near Montrose, Colorado
If you have never held a fly rod, Montrose is a good place to start. The Uncompahgre River runs through town and up to Ridgway State Park, the Gunnison is half an hour away, and Ed's Fly Shop has been teaching first timers on that water since 2010. This page answers the questions we hear most from people who want to try fly fishing and do not know where to begin.
Start with a half day on the Uncompahgre
The best first trip for a beginner is a guided half day walk and wade on the Uncompahgre River. It runs about four hours, meets at the shop on Main Street, and puts you on gentle riffles and pools where a new caster can learn without fighting big water. The Uncompahgre is a catch and release fishery with rainbow and brown trout, and your guide coaches you the whole time. Flies, leader and tippet are included. Rods and reels can be rented if you do not own them yet.
Uncompahgre River Half Day Walk and Wade
Or take a casting lesson first
If you would rather learn the cast before you learn the river, our guides teach casting lessons in Montrose. A two hour lesson fixes most of the habits that cost beginners fish, and it makes your first day on the water a lot more fun. If you want the whole picture, from equipment to knots to bugs, ask the shop about the Intro to Fly Fishing Class we run in May.
What you need for a first trip
A Colorado fishing license, which you can buy online before you come. Polarized sunglasses, so you can see the water and the fish. Sunscreen, a hat and layers, because the weather in the valley changes. A refillable water bottle. Waders and boots are recommended for wading trips, and if you do not have them, ask the shop. Everything else, the guide brings.
When to come
Beginners do best when the water is friendly. Spring and fall on the Uncompahgre, and summer on the Lower Gunnison once runoff drops, give a new angler the most chances at fish. Check the fishing reports before you book, or call the shop and we will tell you where a first timer should be that week.
Questions beginners ask
Do I need my own gear to try fly fishing?
No. Guided trips include flies and terminal tackle, and rod and reel rentals are available on request. If you decide you like it, the shop will fit you for your own setup afterward.
Is a guided trip worth it for a complete beginner?
Yes. A guide does the reading of the water, the fly selection and the knots, so you can spend the day learning to cast and hook fish. Many beginners catch their first trout on a guided half day.
How long is a beginner trip?
A half day walk and wade is about four hours. Full day trips run longer and are a good second step once you have the basics.
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes. A valid Colorado fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older and is not included in the trip. You can buy one online from Colorado Parks and Wildlife before you arrive.
Can kids come?
Yes. Walk and wade trips on the Uncompahgre work well for families. Call the shop to talk through ages and group size so we match you with the right guide and water.
Where do I meet the guide?
At Ed's Fly Shop, 432 E Main St in Montrose, unless you arrange another meeting place in advance.