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.
We no longer offer Stand Up Paddle Boards, Kayaks or whitewater gear as of 6/15/2024. We apologize for any inconvenience.

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.
BOOK NOWWhen 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?
REGIONAL ACTIVITIES
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Our philosophy on Fishing Reports is to focus on fisheries we know well, and not to overwhelm you with out-of-date reporting on sections we don’t experience regularly.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
Why hire a guide for your fly fishing trip?
RIGS fly fishing guides are know for being highly knowledgable and patient. They provide excellent instruction to beginners that want to learn fly fishing, as well as, intermediate and experienced anglers that what to hone new skills.
Is the guide or guide service licensed, bonded, and insured in Colorado?
All of RIGS guides are professionally certified with all of the necessary licenses and certifications to operate safely and legally in the state of Colorado. RIGS Fly Shop & Guide Service is the permit holder of any trip you go on. We will never take you to a location we are not legally permitted on. Be aware of guides conducting “rogue trips” or persons falsely presenting themselves 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 – a required Colorado fishing licenses and guide gratuity are not included. Please ask our reservations staff if you have any questions regarding this.
What do you need to go fly fishing in the state of Colorado?
A Colorado fishing license is required to fish any portion of public land ( BLM, USFS, State Park, City Parks, etc). Next you will want make sure you are prepared for the day with the appropriate flies, waders, boots, rods, reels, and gear that will keep you cool or warm depending on the time of year you are fishing in Colorado.
Top 5 things that can make a fly fishing trip more enjoyable:
1) Sunglasses – to protect your eyes from the sun, weight and flies that are shooting by your head at high speeds. They can make a huge difference when you accidentally cast a weighted jig at your face; plus it is easier to see the fish with polarized sunglasses.
2) Quick-dry clothing – Will allow you to wetwade during summer months and not overheat. And will dry quickly so you don’t get cold when the sun hides behind a cloud.
3) A Sunhat or Cap – Helps ensure easier spotting of fish too. When your eyes are shaded, glare is diminshed. Plus, when it rains you can still see and not have rain hitting your face, eyes and glasses.
4) Clothing Layers – Colorado is know for irratic weather. One minute its sunny, the next it is snowing or raining. Preparing with layers and a backpack or wading pack with help you store a jacket, warm hat and gloves, until the weather changes.
5)
What is the appropriate tip for a fly fishing guide?
Although tipping is a personal decision, the industry standard is 20%-30% and up based on the total trip price. Imagine a waitperson that takes care of only you for the duration of the day.
What to wear on a fly fishing trip?
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 NOT to wear on a fly fishing trip?
When preparing for a guided fly fishing trip, make sure to think about the weather for the day and what variables you will encounter. It is always best to stay way from cotton clothing when participating in a guided fly fishing trip. Cotton holds water and will remain wet for most of the day, making for an uncomfortable time on the water. Staying away from jeans or canvas pants will ensure you are more comfortable in waders, and if you waders leak a little, you will not be soaked.
What does RIGS provide on their fly fishing trips?
All Flies, Terminal Tackle (including tippet, indicators, floatant, etc.), Waders/Wading Boots/Wet wading gear are included on all Guided Fly Fishing Trips.
Riverside Charcuterie Lunch included on all Full-Day Trips – please staff know if you have any dietary restrictions.
Want to bring your own gear, that’s ok too. Check with staff on the right weight rod for your destination.
What should I wear when coming to 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 the Reservation and Cancellation Policies for guided trips?
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 the restricted time depending on the trip you are on, will be considered non-refundable. PLEASE SEE YOUR RESERVATION CONFIRMATION FOR THE 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. On our multiday trips 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.