Three people in a blue raft navigating a river while fishing with rocky banks and greenery.

Half Day Float Trip

$650 Per Boat (Up to 2 guests)

Half-day float trips are a great choice for spring, summer and fall fly fishing. Choosing between a morning or afternoon float allows clients to get a taste for Colorado’s legendary fly fishing while still leaving time in the day for other activities. Early morning half-day trips are ideal for beating the heat and the crowds during busy summer days, while afternoon trips are a great way to soak in the sun and enjoy the beautiful weather out on the river.

We run our half-day floats on both the Eagle and Colorado rivers. Rowed by our professional guides in a raft or fiberglass drift boat, you’ll explore these scenic rivers in search of hungry trout. Two anglers can comfortably cast from these boats, and reach areas that remain untouched by wading fly fishermen. Half-day float trips last up to four hours on the water.

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 choose 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. (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 Float 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: Sandals or water shoes with good traction (like Tevas or Chacos). Wet-wading sandals or wading boots with guard socks.
  • 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. Waterproof/breathable shell.
  • Footwear Sandals or water shoes with good traction (like Tevas or Chacos).
    Wet-wading sandals or wading boots with guard socks. Wool or synthetic socks to wear with boots and waders on cooler days.
  • Accessories Sun hat and polarized sunglasses. Light gloves or hand liners.

Additional Information

Fishing Reports

Our professional guides write detailed fishing reports for nearly every local river we access. Learn more about what to expect on your guided tour by visiting our Colorado Fishing Conditions page.
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Shop Talk Blog

Meet the experienced team of men and women at Vail Valley Anglers. Read staff bios, customer testimonials, and learn more about requesting a specific guide for your trip on our Staff & Guides page.
Coming Soon

Staff & Guides

Meet the experienced team of men and women at Vail Valley Anglers. Read staff bios, customer testimonials, and learn more about requesting a specific guide for your trip on our Staff & Guides page.
Learn More
A rainbow trout caught by an angler while on a guide trip with Vail Valley Anglers

Do You Have Any Questions?

If you have additional questions about the Half-Day Float Trip, visit our Frequently Asked Questions Page Below.
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