Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Before you reach out, it’s worth checking our FAQs. We’ve answered the questions we hear most often about what to bring, what to expect, licensing, booking policies, and more. It might save you a step.

Booking & Logistics

The easiest way is to Book Here or give us a call. We keep it simple — no complicated systems, no runaround. Just tell us your dates, group size, and experience level and we’ll take it from there.

Yes, everyone that fishes in Colorado must obtain at least a 1-day fishing license.

Summer and fall are our peak seasons.  The farther out the better, especially for Holidays and weekends.  We will always do our best to get you on the water. Half days are easier to book last minute than full days!

Deposit Policy: A 50% deposit is required to confirm and secure your booking.  Deposits are non-refundable if cancellation occurs within 14 days of your trip.

48-Hour Cancellation Window (No Refunds)

  • If trip is cancelled within 48 hours of the scheduled trip date, client is responsible for 100% of trip cost

 Yes. Non-fishing guests are welcome to come along and watch in an open seat in the boat or from the bank.  We do not provide any waders or equipment for non fishing guests.

We love dogs and most of the guides have them! Up to your guide and what you have planned for the day.  Dogs are the responsibility of the owner when on a trip.

What’s Included & What to Bring

All rods, reels, waders, wading boots, and flies are provided. You’ll need to arrive with a valid Colorado fishing license — we do not sell licenses at the shop. You can purchase one quickly through Colorado Parks & Wildlife.

Dress in layers. Mornings on the river are cool even in summer, and conditions can change fast in the mountains. Avoid cotton — it holds moisture and gets cold. Synthetic or wool base layers are ideal. We provide waders and wading boots, but you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer.  Rain gear is always a good idea!  A hat and sunglasses are probably the most important.

No. We provide everything you need on the water. If you have your own rod or waders and prefer to use them, you’re absolutely welcome to bring them.

Experience & Skill Level

Not at all. We guide complete beginners every day and genuinely enjoy it. A half-day trip is the perfect introduction — we’ll cover everything from casting basics to reading water, and you’ll be fishing within the first hour. If you’ve never held a fly rod before, that’s fine. We’ve been there.

Not even a little. Anglers who have fished other styles often pick up fly fishing quickly because they already understand fish behavior. We’ll meet you where you are and build from there.

 A half-day wade trip is usually the best fit. It gives us enough time to work individually with each angler at their own pace. If you have a mix of complete beginners and more experienced anglers, let us know when booking and we’ll structure the day accordingly.

Yes. Parents know their kids best, but we generally find 10-12 a good age and attention span to start fly fishing.

The Fishing Itself

We fish the Frying Pan River, Roaring Fork River, and the Lower Colorado River from Glenwood Springs to Rifle. Each river offers a completely different experience — from the world-class tailwater fishing on the Pan to the large, powerful fish on the Lower Colorado. We choose the river based on conditions, season, and your experience level.

On a wade trip, you’re in the river — standing in the current with your guide right next to you. It’s a more hands-on, instructional experience and the best choice for beginners or anyone who wants close coaching. On a float trip, you fish from a drift boat as your guide rows downstream. It covers more water, accesses stretches you can’t reach on foot, and suits anglers who are comfortable casting and want to cover the river efficiently. Not sure which is right for you? Just ask — we’ll point you in the right direction.

Primarily brown trout and rainbow trout, with cutthroats in higher elevation water. The Lower Colorado is home to some of the largest trout in the state. The Frying Pan holds trophy fish year-round thanks to its Gold Medal tailwater designation.

 Honestly, every season has something going for it — but fall is what most of our guides live for. September and October bring cooler temps, empty rivers, aggressive spawning browns, and the kind of scenery that’s hard to put into words. Summer dry fly fishing on the Roaring Fork is spectacular. The Frying Pan fishes well 365 days a year.

 Yes. A valid Colorado fishing license is required for all anglers and must be purchased before your trip. You can get one at Colorado Parks & Wildlife. We cannot take you on the water without one.

Still have questions?

We’re easy to reach and happy to help you figure out exactly what kind of trip makes sense for you. [gonefishingguides@gmail.com] or give us a call at 970-948-4663.

Book Here