Half-Day Wade Trip

Half-day wade trips give anglers the flexibility to choose the best time of the day to fish – morning, afternoon or evening, depending on the time of year. Travel time is minimal since we have access to the beautiful Eagle and Colorado Rivers as well as several small mountain streams, just minutes from our fly shop. A half-day wade trip is perfect for husbands and wives, parents and children, or friends looking to enjoy time spent wading in a scenic river filled with wild trout. Clients will benefit from our professional guide’s personalized instruction – everything from refining casting technique to mastering the basics of fly fishing. Half-day wade trips last up to four hours on the water.

Please note, the Half-Day Wade has a 2-to-1 client-to-guide ratio. We do offer this trip at a slightly discounted rate at a 3-to-1 client-to-guide ratio, however, it is only recommended for experienced fly fishermen. For more information on 3-to-1 trips, please contact us directly at 970-926-0900 or guidedesk@vailvalleyanglers.com.

What's Included

Provided:

  • Rod & Reel*
    We’ll set you up with a high-quality rod and reel that match your experience level and the trip at hand.
  • Flies
    Guides will chose the most current patterns daily from our shop’s selection of top quality flies.
  • 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) throughout the trip.

*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.
  • Food
    Since this is only a four-hour trip, there’s no time for lunch. We do have a local village market across the street where you can stock up on snacks before you head to the river! (A cooler stocked with bottled water is included).
  • 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 Half-Day Wade 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
    Wool or synthetic socks to wear with boots and waders.
  • 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.
    Breathable pant or sweatpant (to wear under waders).
  • Footwear
    Wool or synthetic socks to wear with boots and waders.
  • 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.