Two people ice fishing in a snowy landscape with mountains in the background.

Winter Ice Fishing Trip

$450 (1 Person Per Guide)
$550 (2 People Per Guide)
$650 (3 People Per Guide)
$750 (4 People Per Guide)

Ice fishing the High Country of the Colorado Rockies is a unique activity and a great way to get out and enjoy the winter landscape. Our professional guides have years of experience fishing during the winter, and know how to turn the challenging conditions into an angler’s advantage. We primarily focus on low-altitude reservoirs during the winter and have all of the necessary equipment to keep you safe and warm. Escape from the weather inside our portable ice fishing huts and enjoy your lunch! You never know what is going to bite below the ice when you’re located on a great pinnacle or ledge just off the deep shoreline.


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.
  • Food
    We’ll serve up a lunch right on the ice.
    (We gladly accommodate any special dietary requests just let us know in advance!)
  • Terminal Tackle*
    Included in the price of every trip is all terminal tackle including tippet, split shot, leaders, and strike indicators.
  • Ice Fishing Hut*
    We’ll bring along a portable ice fishing hut to make sure you have a place to keep warm.

*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.
  • 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 an Ice Fishing Trip.


Winter

  • Top: Baselayer or long underwear that wicks moisture and dries quickly.
    Insulating midlayer (fleece, down, or synthetic).
    Waterproof/breathable shell.
    Light, packable rain jacket.
  • 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 Polarized sunglasses.
    Warm hat or beanie.
    Warm gloves (some anglers prefer fingerless).
    Hand and feet warmers.

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.

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