Fly Fishing in Colorado

Guiding year round in WY and CO I have seen clients come with all the gear known to man, and some show up with nothing but a dream. Here is what I use and recommend for anyone planning a trip to CO or hoping to get set up for their own adventures on the water.

May contain sponsored links*

Rods, Reels & Line

There are a lot of usable trout rods and reels, but I would choose a setup that you can grow into. This is one of the pieces of equipment that will be in your hands all the time, each time you go out. It's an investment that is to be enjoyed!

Flies

A small assortment of flies is helpful- use the expertise of local fly shops to choose the best flies for the river and season you are fishing.

Bags, Boxes, Storage & Organization

No need to splurge on this category unless you want to- choose the organization system for your equipment that works for your style and personality. A waterproof pack for your fly boxes and misc equipment is nice if it fits your budget.

Backpacks & Lumbar Packs

Simms Dry Creek Z Hip Pack

Orvis Guide Hip Pack

Boat Bags & Dry Bags

Umpqua Boat Bag Medium

Tackle Boxes & Fly Boxes

Umpqua UPG LT Mini Premium Fly Box

Clothing

Here is another area in which some equipment can last you a lifetime and some is replaceable each season. Focus on spending your money on good sunglasses and waders, and budget the rest on wading boots, clothing and clothing accessories (in that order).

Hats

Any ol' hat will do, just make sure it'll be one you want to wear all day.

FROGG TOGGS WATERPROOF BOONIE HAT

Sunglasses & Retainers

Smith Mens Guide's Choice XL Sport & Performance Sunglasses

ChromaPop Polarized Brown

Tops

Orvis Men's drirelease Pullover Hoodie

Simms Fishing Men's Big Sky Vented Fishing Shirt

Jackets/ Shells

Patagonia Men's Nano Puff® Hoody

Shorts & Pants

KUIU Attack Pant

Columbia Men's Backcast Convertible Pant

Vests

Patagonia Men's Nano Puff® Vest

Rain Gear

Simms Flyweight Shell Jacket for Men

Waders

Simms Men's G4 PRO Waders - Stockingfoot

Footwear

Orvis Pro Wading Boots for Men

Simms G4 PRO Powerlock Boot - Vibram

Socks

Darn Tough Westerner OTC Lightweight w/ Cushion

Tools & Accessories

You can go for function over form, or form then function. This is a budget area or you can opt for really nice equipment that will last you many years. I have used custom made wood nets from Longdraw Woodworks for all my guiding and I love them. I've also used line nippers from Abel Reels ($$$), but also rocked a pair of fingernail clippers from the grocery store when I started out. My only suggestion in this area: Get a net big enough to COMFORTABLY hold the largest fish you might catch (rubber nets are best). I see too many anglers with tiny nets and it stresses or even injures larger fish when they flop out onto the rocks or are bent so tight in the net that they can breathe or move. Let's keep our fish healthy and strong!

Nets

fishpond Nomad Fly Fishing Carbon Fiber & Fiberglass Mid-Length Boat Net

Pliers, Scissors & Tools

Adamsbuilt 4" Scissor / Pliers

Knives

Chive

Hydration

Earthwell® xGrayl 16oz Roaster™ Loop Bottle

Misc. Gear

Sawyer- Stay-Put SPF 30 Sunscreen

Jeremiah Bakk Guide • Colorado

*NOTE: The links to purchase certain products I recommend in this gear list may result in me being paid a small commission. I appreciate your support!