Awesome day on the river. First time fly fishing caught a ton of fish. Guide was Awesome!read more

We've always wanted to do a guided fly-fishing trip in this part of Colorado, since we come every…read moreyear to visit our son. My husband's birthday was the perfect opportunity, especially when we discovered RIGS was located right in Ridgway, where we were staying. They serve the whole region and are very convenient to Ouray as well. We chose the High Country full-day trip for two. RIGS was very accommodating--David answered all our questions in person, and Nick helped us book over the phone. Both were patient and professional. Our son, who works locally as a Climbing Instructor and Guide for Basecamp Ouray, might've joined us, but we didn't know his schedule until the last minute. Despite it being peak season, RIGS managed to get another guide so all three of us could go together. We really appreciated that flexibility. Check-in was smooth since we'd completed the online waivers. They walked us through the day with a laminated checklist of everything we'd need and tips for success. We bought our one-day fishing licenses (separate from the trip cost), then got fitted in their gear room. Our guides, Ethan and Jason, ensured everything fit comfortably. Being from Florida, my husband and I opted for full-body waders to stay warm. They recommended knee-highs, but we were glad we went with full-body. I wore leggings, he wore light hiking pants--we stayed comfortable all day. Our son, a local, wore knee waders and was fine. It was a mix of sun, clouds, and light rain, but we had rain jackets as advised. I also brought insect repellent, which was useful during sunnier stretches. There were definitely mosquitoes in the brush. We stayed warm, dry, and bug-free. My husband's toes still got cold, so he was grateful for the gear. The drive to the high country was gorgeous. When we arrived, Ethan and Jason set up chairs for us to put on our gear comfortably--felt like red carpet treatment! My husband and son went with Jason since they had some experience, and I went with Ethan, who was so patient and clear. He showed me each step, explained fly placement, and helped me spot bites to set the hook. I'm used to saltwater fishing, so freshwater fly-fishing was a totally new, relaxing experience. At our first stop--a confluence between two rivers--I caught 16 rainbow trout (6-10 inches). Even more fun was practicing the motion and avoiding snags. I worked hard not to make Ethan's job harder and only got snagged once. He quickly re-rigged the line without ever making me feel bad. We fished from shore and landed plenty at all the spots they chose. For lunch, they rolled out the red carpet again with chairs so we could relax. My husband and I are Plant-Based (Vegan/Vegetarian), and they were thoughtful in providing a lemon-dill hummus, carrots, grape leaves, corn crackers, cookies, and nuts--super satisfying and energizing. Our son, who's not PB, got a charcuterie tray with cheese, crackers, and cold cuts. We'd brought snacks just in case, but we didn't need them. If you're someone who eats a lot--like our son--you may want extras, but we were perfectly satisfied. After lunch, we headed to a second spot on the Cimarron, just 10 minutes away. It was great to fish two very different rivers. The first was smaller--ideal for beginners like me and for my husband and son to get reacquainted with the gear. The second was much wider, more secluded, and more of an adventure. Ethan and Jason asked if we were up for it, and we happily agreed. Along the way, we saw moose droppings and trees downed by beavers. Wildflowers were in full July bloom--perfect for me since I love photographing them. We hiked through brush and forest to get there, which was also part of the fun. Bring bug spray for this part! At the second river, it was harder to land fish, but they were biting. I caught two bigger rainbow trout (around 10 inches). The technique Ethan taught me earlier really helped here, with longer casts and river wading. I loved every second. My husband enjoyed the openness and challenge and really appreciated the techniques both guides shared. I even took breaks so Ethan could help my husband and son too. Ethan and Jason were endlessly patient. Each of us needed help--my husband and son had a few snags, which Jason handled, and Ethan stayed beside me to make sure I didn't slip, even standing knee-deep in cold water all day. They went above and beyond to make the trip special. The only problem now is... I'm completely hooked on fly-fishing. So our future Colorado trips will definitely include another RIGS adventure!

We just returned from an outstanding multi-generational, vacation at The Majestic Dude Ranch in…read moreColorado. Every member of the family from the oldest (83) to the youngest (4) had a wonderful time. It was a a five star experience, and we all want to go back!

In 1989 my wife and I took our kids there. We had the BEST time. I just drove by there. It was the…read moreLake Mancos Dude Ranch at that time. I understand a young ranch hand bought it from the original owner. He has made it better! I'm sure anyone would have a great time there.

First off, I have NOTHING negative to say about the store or the staff. It is all first rate! I…read morebooked a half day guided trip with them. I went and spent the morning catching fish all morning. The problem was, they were all between 4-6". I'm not suggesting that some were small, I am saying every single fish was that size. To be honest, I did not know that anyone fished for fish that small on purpose. Why would you?? My guide was incredibly friendly and very knowledgable so I am a little surprised about the outing. I know a half-day trip limits locations but this was incredibly disappointing. It was a lot of money for the outing and to say I have buyer's remorse would be an understatement. So if you book and they tell you they want to take you out to the La Plata River, please insist on a different location.

This tale will be told in three parts and reflects the experience we had in the shop and with their…read moreguide Rob C. Background: Son takes dad on a fishing trip to celebrate his retirement. Part the first - Booking our float trip on the San Juan river was simple. Called up Duranglers, spoke with Spencer, got some preliminary instructions, gave payment for half. Took 10 minutes. Received subsequent emails, phone calls from Tom, the owner, about NM fishing licenses with relevant links and day of driving directions to the meeting location. Made navigating an unfamiliar territory seamless. Act II - Shop experience. I "needed" a new fly line. I walked out with much more! Prices were reasonable, shop guys were more than happy to shoot the breeze, and their selection was top notch. Great shop! Part three - The Rob Effect: Im a beginner fly fisherman, my dad was a first timer. I have had 10 or so guides over the last 3 years since taking this hobby up. Rob C. is tied with one other in N. CO as my favorite. He was patient, funny, and a wealth of knowledge about almost any topic. He is an unbelievably technical fisherman, his skill set and command of the rod is unparalleled. His respect for the river and the fish it contained was refreshing. I cannot recommend him highly enough! He made our trip the success it was. You will not be dissatisfied with any aspect of Duranglers!

BOOK YOUR FISHING TRIP NOW!! 100%, 10/10 recommend, best decision you will make for your trip to…read moreDurango. Let Julien be your guide to fishing in beautiful Durango, Colorado. My wife and I booked with Julien, along with three of our four children, and we left from our experience with so much more than just reflecting on the size, abundance, or frequency of fish caught. We left with so much more than we ever expected and that was peace, relaxation, fun, knowledge, and a reassurance of kind, hardworking, and welcoming people in this world, because of Julien. Not only is Julien one of the most sincere, patient, and positive people we have been fortunate enough to meet in this amazing community, he is extremely knowledgeable in his craft and he taught our children so many important techniques and practices for fishing in the area and for fishing in general. From the moment we arrived, to the moment we parted to our vehicle, we were welcomed with kindness and taught the ins and outs by Julien. As we have fished in many different areas, in differing states, and for many differing types of fish, I can say that this was one of my favorite fishing experiences to date. Julien embraced and taught our children as we would, and he allowed them to experience and be involved in every step of the process, and so much more in between. It is rare to find someone who enjoys teaching children their knowledge and we are very appreciative of everything he did while we were with him. I cannot say enough great things about Julien and Go Fish Durango. We caught plenty of fish during this time, and that allowed our children to learn something new that they had been eager to learn. We could have never caught a single fish and it would have been a great experience, regardless. You will not be disappointed with your trip, and we will be booking with Julien again and again. If it's fishing in the summer or ice fishing in the winter, we cannot wait to book another trip with Julien and all that Go Fish Durango has to offer. Don't miss out on your chance to have this experience with someone who truly loves doing what they do, and sharing it with those who are open to learning! I rarely write reviews, but great people deserve recognition, and Julien is an amazing person. I am grateful to have booked this trip with him.

Amazing experience with Go Fish Durango! As soon as we got into the lake, we had fish on our lines!…read moreJulien was extremely knowledgeable and helped us catch several fish! We caught so many fish, we honestly lost count. Julien taught my son so much about fishing, and even let us hang out at the beach and swim after our fishing trip was over. We caught several rainbow trout and salmon and cooked them up for dinner that same evening. Such a great time!!

The owner and staff at The San Juan Angler were amazing! I was visiting Durango for the week and…read moredropped in last minute to book a guide trip. They found a guide for me and arranged all my gear quickly. I was even able to get my license there. My fishing trip the next day was also amazing! Ethan was a great guide for telling me about the river, the ecology, and the trout. We were able to catch trout with nymphs and dries right in town! I would definitely recommend TSJA to anybody who is looking to do some fishing while visiting Durango.

This was our first fly fishing experience and we wanted a top notch guide. We had a great time with…read moreCole and plan to do it again next summer! Thank you San Juan Angler!

Tucked away in the middle of nowhere (about a 6 hour drive from Denver), this place is an absolute…read moretreasure. The staff is indescribably accommodating and the cabins have a vintage, down-home feel. I was lent fishing gear from the staff's personal collection and a fire was built for my group nightly. If you're looking for somewhere to really get away and connect with nature while still sleeping in a bed, this is the place to be.

If you want to get away from it all... this is the place!! Plenty of fishing, wildlife, scenery…read moreand the hosts are very friendly and accommodating. They even light the fire for you at night! They are so nice. We had a great time!!!

This was my first time fly fishing. It was a great experience. Luke (my guide) was a great…read moreteacher and very patient with me. He got me into a lot fish and we had a great day. We are already planning another trip in October. If all the guides are as knowledgeable and help as Luke, you will never have a bad fishing experience. I highly recommend Williams Creek Anglers.

Great service and friendly. Very knowledgeable of the area and great fly selection.read more

We had a great experience with Sportsman's fishing the Lake Fork in early August. Our guide Trey…read morewas fantastic. He worked hard for us all day, very helpful and thorough. Even more, he is a real teacher, making our day an unforgettable event. And we caught quite a few trout! Highly recommended.

I've been using guides from The Sportsman since 2004 and have never had a bad experience. And now…read moresince Peter has taken over the shop it's not hard to believe it's gotten better. Between Peter, Morgan and Trey we had the best week of fishing we've ever had. My many thanks to them all and I look forward to seeing them again next year, and the next and the next....

Here is a bullet point summary highlighting a stellar experience with Montrose Anglers:…read more~ setting: a pristine stream along the glorious Uncompahgre River in Western Colorado consistently surrounded by an abundance of trophy-sized rainbows, browns, and cutthroats ~ guide: Caleb is a consummate pro ... he knows his stuff and is a wealth of knowledge about the intricacies of fly fishing ... bonus: Caleb is incredibly patient while remaining laser focused on the goal: catching fish ~ result: a banner day in experiencing the best kept fly fishing secret on the western slope of Colorado...what a thrill landing wild rainbow and brown trout in one of the healthiest rivers in the state ~ 2 words: HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

Everything you need here for fly fishing including tours the staff is wonderful as well definitely…read morerecommend this place