If you plan on fishing in Colorado, you must have a Colorado Fishing License. Fishing licenses can be purchased online, over the phone at 1.800.244.5613, or at a retail or Colorado Parks & Wildlife location. Click here for fishing season dates and license fees!

If you’re not sure where to start, aren’t sure what to expect in Colorado waters, or have been out of practice for a while- ask the experts at our local fly shops! They will be sure to set you up for success and take into consideration where you’ll be fishing, what you’ll be fishing for, and your budget. Aren’t ready to take the plunge and purchase your own gear? No problem! Fly shops offer gear rentals on rods, reels, boots, waders, and more!

Fly Rod and Reel

The bread and butter of fly fishing! Choosing the right fly rod and reel can feel daunting, especially for beginners. These are the general recommendations for beginners: look for medium-action, 8.5-9 feet in length, 4, 5, or 6-weight, single retrieve fly reel, and mid-range priced gear.

If you plan on traveling with your rod, consider a travel rod that can break down into four or more pieces for easy transport. Most rods will have this capability. Some good brands to look for include: Cabela’s, Orvis, Sage, G. Loomis, Winston, Redington, Fenwick, Moonshine, Scott & St. Croix.

Boots and Waders

Our mountain waters are cold. Really, really cold. If you plan to explore beyond the shoreline, you’ll likely want to have boots and waders! When looking for waders look for options that are breathable (Gore-Tex, dri-plus, synthetic materials; avoid nylon or rubber), stockingfoot waders for versatility, and waders that are lightweight especially in warmer months. Boot should be lightweight (ideally under four pounds), rubber-soled (not felt), quick-draining, and include a lacing system and ankle support. Some recommended brands include Patagonia, Orvis, Cabela’s, Simms, or Redington.

Tackle

Pack your fly vest or bag with everything you’ll need to make the catch! The essential gear you’ll need on the water includes line, flies (dry, wet, and streamers), fly box, leaders, tippets, nippers, midges, forceps, indicators, and a net.

Whether you’re taking a guided tour or setting out on your own, it’s crucial to be prepared for our rapidly changing high-alpine weather. Ensure you’re equipped for the mountain environment with the right gear, sun protection, and essentials. Here’s a checklist to keep you comfortable and safe:

• Base and mid-layers
• Rain jacket
• Polarized sunglasses
• Sun-protecting hat
• Neck gaiter or buff
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm with SPF
• Waterproof phone case
• Snacks
• Water

With these items, you’ll be ready to enjoy your adventure regardless of the weather conditions.

Here in Breckenridge we are near the headwaters for several major rivers and countless tributaries in the Blue River watershed. Test your skills in some of these local favorite rivers, creeks, and streams.

• Blue River
• Colorado River
• Snake River
• South Platte River
• Muddy Creek
• Tenmile Creek
• Arkansas River

In addition to our extensive river system, you can opt to fly fish in our many nearby alpine lakes and reservoirs. Here are a few fan favorites in our area.

• Lake Emma
• Mohawk Lakes
• Montgomery Reservoir
• Dillon Reservoir
• Cataract Lake
• Clinton Reservoir

Brown trout are a species that has been widely introduced across much of the world, having been introduced to the US from Germany in 1883. Brown trout are medium-sized fish with brown-olive bodies. They are covered in dark spots and surrounded by a lighter halo. They have a diet of larvae, pupae, insects, invertebrates, frogs, and more.

Rainbow trout grow to approximately 20-30 inches in length and weigh about eight pounds. As their name suggests, rainbow trout are very colorful! Depending on their environment, rainbow trout can be blue-green or yellow-green and have a pink streak down their side. They are also speckled with black spots. Rainbow trout thrive in the cold water rivers, streams, and lakes of Colorado and eat small insects, crustaceans, and small fish.

There are several species of cutthroat trout that make their home in our beautiful rivers. The three native species are Colorado River Cutthroat, Greenback Cutthroat, and Rio Grande Cutthroat. These species can all be distinguished by the distinctive red marking along their “throat” as well as spotting along their body, concentrated at the tail. These species can be found in high lakes, streams, and rivers.

Brook trout also came to Colorado in the 1880s and are common throughout the state. They have small colorful spots, a green body, and a pinkish belly. They thrive in high-alpine lakes, rivers, streams, and beaver ponds. They have a varied diet and will rise for a range of small flies.

These fish are gigantic- in fact, they are the largest trout in North America! They have light, white spots on a darker background and a forked tail. These species of trout are aptly named and are found in mountain lakes, usually in deep water.

This cold-water fish species was introduced to the Lake Dillon Reservoir in 1990. They are generally greenish-brown with light spots and a lighter belly, but their appearance can vary depending on environmental conditions. In 2017, the state record for the largest arctic char was caught by a woman on Lake Dillon! Read more about the story here.