FISHING RESOURCES

FLY FISHING RENTALS

Walk-In DIY Fly Fishing Rentals – We offer a variety of fly fishing rentals that you can use on a your DIY exploration of the region (independently of a guided trip). All guided trips include Sage rods and reels with Simms waders and boots. Like to get out on your own but don’t want to travel with gear. We are here to help you get out on a regional river or lake with quality fly fishing rentals and solid fishing advice.

Looking for other rentals like Stand Up Paddle Boards, Kayaks or whitewater gear? Go to our Paddle Sports Rental page for Hourly rentals at Ridgway State Park and more.

Combo Fly Fishing Rental

This combination includes a pair of Simms waders and boots and an Redington that is a 5 weight depending on availability.

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Fly Rod/Reel Rental

This rental features a rod, reel, line, and leader. Our rental lines are Redington Rods in a 5 weight depending on availability.

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Wader/Boots Rental

Our wader/boots rental includes either Simms, Patagonia or Orvis waders and boots.

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Wading Boots/Neoprene Socks

Simms Guard socks and Simms wading boots, the perfect setup for those blistering hot days on the water.

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WE HOPE YOU HAVE A FUN DAY WITH OUR RENTALS.
When returning your rental gear be sure to follow a few of our guide lines to avoid additional charges.

1) Please consult with our reservation staff for specific policies and guidelines regarding our rental equipment.
2) All RIGS Rentals must be returned in the same condition rented – with reasonable use/wear.
3) Please return rentals clean and without mud or debris. We provide two hose areas at the fly shop to clean equipment before returning.
4) Upon return, we will assess any excessive damage or loss of equipment and notify you if an additional charge applies.

WANT YOUR OWN GEAR?

HOURLY PADDLE SPORTS

FISHING REPORTS

Our philosophy on Fishing Reports is to focus on fisheries we know well, and not to overwhelm you with out-of-date reporting on sections we don’t experience regularly. If you see other reports on locations with past dates from way back when, that’s not “current conditions” in our book. The goal of RIGS Fish Report is to guide you through the nuances of exploration, while providing “Reel-Time” beta on these incredible fisheries so you can make sound decisions and succeed in your planning. Have fun out there and enjoy!

GUIDED FLY FISHING FAQ’s

COLORADO FISHING – WHAT TO KNOW

Is the guide or guide service licensed, bonded, and insured in Colorado?

All of RIGS guides are professionally certified with all of the necessary license and permit requirements. Be aware of guides conducting “rogue trips” or persons holding themselves out as guides. Without the proper Colorado fishing license and permits, they are not covered under the outfitter’s insurance and license. This practice is illegal in Colorado.

What are some of the additional costs of a trip?

At RIGS, flies, waders, boots, rods, reels, and private water fees are included in the Fly Fishing trip price. Only your required Colorado fishing licenses and guide gratuity are not included. Please ask our reservations staff if you have any questions regarding this.

What is the appropriate tip for a fly fishing guide?

Although tipping is a personal decision, the industry standard is 20% and up based on the total trip price.

Know What to Bring and Wear

Listed below are some basic essentials for your guided fishing trip. Please note: you can purchase any of these items at our fly shop upon arrival. Sun is the enemy, so dress appropriately with long sleeve synthetics (UPF shirts, pants and gloves recommended) + sunscreen (however, sunscreen degrades fly line – please wash hands after applying. Keep clothing light and comfortable. While the guide will have drinks available and lunch on full-day trips, we recommend bringing a bottle for water that can be refilled by the guide and snacks you know you will enjoy. Fly Fishing Essentials: Rod & Reel – 3 to 6 weight rod/reel/line. (Rod preferences are subject to current water levels, hatches and locations. Please inquire.) Waders and Boots- (if you would like to bring your own please do, check with reservation staff on what gear is appropriate for the river you are fishing. Leaders- (3x to 6x) Tippet- (guides will provide this, but it is nice to have backups- (3x to 6x).

What We Provide

Flies are included on all Guided Fly Fishing Trips.
Terminal Tackle (including tippet, indicators, floatant, etc.)
Riverside Charcuterie Lunch included on all Full-Day Trips – please staff know if you have any dietary restrictions.
Fly Rod & Reel and Wader & Boot are included in all our trips. Want to bring your own gear, that’s ok too. Check with staff on the right weight rod for your destination.

Remember That You’re in Colorado

If you’re coming from a different part of the country or the world, you may not be used to Colorado’s elevation, dry weather, and abundant sunshine….and the occasional rain or snowstorm. Come with the appropriate gear for the time of year. Make sure to keep yourself hydrated during your entire stay in Colorado, limit your alcohol intake, ease your way into strenuous activities, and be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and lip balm.

What Is Your Reservation/ Cancellation Policy?

Reservation Policy: A 50% deposit is due at the time of reservation, with the remaining balance due 7, 14 or 90 days prior to trip departure depending on the trip you reserved.  At this point, your trip is considered non-refundable. PLEASE SEE YOUR RESERVATION CONFIRMATION FOR THE SPECIFIC CANCELLATION POLICY ASSOCIATED WITH YOUR TRIP(S).
If we are unable to obtain an authorization on your credit card and cannot reach you, your reservation will be considered void. A confirmation email will be sent to you at the time of payment confirmation. It is the client’s responsibility to reconfirm receipt of all details contained in the reservation confirmation email including trip location, meeting/departure times, appropriate attire, and expectations.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations made prior to final payment will forfeit a 10% cancellation fee. Cancellations that occur within 7, 14, 90 hours of trip departure, will be considered non-refundable. PLEASE SEE YOUR RESERVATION CONFIRMATION FOR THE SPECIFIC CANCELLATION POLICY ASSOCIATED WITH YOUR TRIP(S). Cancellations must be received via email (info@fishrigs.com) with a written response confirming the cancellation. This policy applies to all fly fishing trips, regardless of reasons for cancellations – no exceptions. We are not responsible for cancellations due to weather conditions, road hazards, vehicle breakdowns, medical emergencies, or other unforeseen conditions which may hinder our ability to safely conduct a trip. We recommend travel insurance for your trip that offers trip reimbursement costs.
We reserve the right to modify or reschedule any trip if last-minute water levels, weather conditions, or other circumstances arise which are beyond our control. If these circumstances arise, we will provide an alternative location, if a suitable alternative is not available we will provide a full refund.

FLY FISHING ESSENTIALS

COLORADO WESTERN SLOPE REGIONAL INFO

Fly fishing on the western slope of Colorado is a popular and rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels. This region offers some of the most beautiful and diverse fishing opportunities in the world with extensive public access.

Known for its healthy population of trout – fishing opportunities, range from everything from small brook trout streams to tailwaters that hold trophy-sized rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout, as well as opportunities to fish for smallmouth bass, pike, and other warm water species in the lakes of the area. The region is home to several famous rivers and streams, including the Gunnison, Colorado, Animas and Roaring Fork Rivers, as well as numerous lesser know rivers and high-mountain creeks and lakes.

Fly fishing in this region can be challenging due to the diverse fishing conditions, from fast-moving rivers to slow-moving streams, and from high-altitude streams to low-elevation tailwaters. However, with the right gear, knowledge, and local guidance, fly fishing on the western slope of Colorado can be a truly unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, be sure to obtain the necessary fishing licenses and follow local regulations before hitting the water. The western slope of Colorado is a beautiful and unique fishing destination that offers something for everyone.

COLORADO FISHING LICENSES

Colorado Parks & Wildlife – CPW Fishing Licenses are now even easier to purchase.
Non- residents or residents only interested in a short-term license will find having a license as easy as having an email or picture on your phone.

Things to know before you go on your guided trip or purchase a fishing license:

  • What is a CID number? A CID number is a series of numbers much like a social security number that CPW creates as an identifier for your license (fishing or hunting) with the State of Colorado.
  • BEFORE BUYING a license online, existing customers SHOULD LOOK UP their CPW account using their CID number and set up their account/profile, while new customers will need to create an account in the new purchasing system. Basically, whether you have had an existing Colorado Fishing License or new to Colorado fishing, you will want to FIRST create an account here.
  • All customers will need to choose a unique identifier, such as CID, driver’s license number, passport number, etc. and password to create or log in to an online account. A unique email is no longer required to log in, meaning families can now use the same email address for all purchases and applications.
  • Email is still required for customers to get their purchase receipts, draw notifications, account update notifications, password resets, etc.
  • Due to the transition of CPW’s new integrated Parks and Wildlife purchasing system, RIGS requires all fly fishing clients to prepurchase their license online before departing on a fly fishing guided trip.
  • Purchase your fishing license HERE

 

Things to know about CPW licenses when buying online:

  • Each license year runs from 4/1 – 3/31: Annual fishing licenses go on sale starting March 15th of each year.
  • Customers may use Visa, MasterCard or Discover credit cards. Visa, Mastercard, or Discover debit cards only work if they can be used without a PIN.
  • Licenses are mailed the business day following the purchase.
  • In most cases, licenses purchased online will reach you by mail within 10 days or you may pick up your license at a license agent location or Colorado Parks and Wildlife office with your TAN number.
  • A temporary authorization number (TAN) is all you need for 1 or 5-day fishing licenses. Your TAN# works as a substituted for the license(s) purchased but is only valid for 14 days from the date of purchase. Please print or write down the TAN# and carry it with you while fishing until you receive your license. If the license OR all of the licenses you purchase in this transaction expire in less than 7 days, you will NOT receive anything in the mail.
  • When you receive your license, review it for accuracy and sign it to validate it. If there are any issues, please contact the call center at (303) 297-1192 or a CPW office.

DISCOVER

RIVER FLY FISHING