An angler fishing the Colorado River with the Vail Valley Anglers guide team on a summer day

Half Day Wade Trip

$425 1 Person
$550 2 People

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 orinfo@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 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 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. Waterproof/breathable shell.
  • Footwear Wool or synthetic socks to wear with boots and waders.
  • 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.
View Current Conditions

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.
Read Our Blog

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.
Meet Our Team
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.
Learn More