Have you been under the impression that fly fishing is for experienced fishers only and is challenging to learn? This sentiment is common, but thankfully untrue! Fly fishing is for all experience and skill levels. In fact, if you’re hoping to give it a try, we have some tips (and incredible guides) to help you dip your toes in!
Why is fly fishing so appealing in the first place? It’s not just about casting a line and waiting for a bite. Fly fishing requires you to survey your surroundings, observe the aquatic entomology (the insects fish feed on), and learn how to read the water to identify spots where fish are likely to feed. In addition to becoming highly attuned to nature, you also work on perfecting your form to properly imitate those insects so that fish are enticed to bite. The more time you dedicate to learning the water, selecting the proper fly, and fine-tuning your cast, the more successful you will be (as with any sport or hobby), so why wait to start?!
If you need a little more convincing, don’t forget about the bonus benefits of fly fishing—soaking in plenty of vitamin D and peaceful time in nature—resulting in overall improved mental health. Time in nature can be an effective tool for managing stress, increasing your mental acuity, and boosting your sleep quality. With over 5 miles of river access, including private gold-medal waters, you’re sure to find ample opportunity for peaceful time on pristine water.
While we’ll set you up with all of the gear and instruction you need to get out there, here are some tips to get you started, wherever you are!
Be fully aware of your surroundings. Here in the Rockies especially, you’re likely not the only one walking among the willows. Keep an eye out for moose and other animals that are often most active in the early morning and late evening.
Watch your back cast. While other people are the obvious watch-out while casting, don’t overlook brush and willows along the shore that may snag your line.
Look under a few rocks. Underneath the rocks in the river, you may be able to find larvae. This larvae will indicate what the fish are eating in that location. You can then try to match your fly to what you’ve found.
Try fishing mid-June through September. This time of year can be considered the most productive time to fly fish in Colorado as all the bodies of water are at a fishable level, the bugs are hatching and the trout extremely active.
Did you know that Devil’s Thumb Ranch is an Orvis endorsed fishing lodge? Here’s why!
Devil’s Thumb is a world-class fly fishing destination due to its diverse waters from small water creeks to tributary rivers. Situated in a high mountain valley, Devil’s Thumb is unique in that it is fed by freestone water lacking upstream reservoirs and impoundments. Proper streamside (riparian) habitat is crucial for development of aquatic insects and Devil’s Thumb Ranch has a commitment to preserving and enhancing this environment for angling success and the betterment of the ecosystem for the entire community.
Additionally, our private water is usually the preferred option for fly fishing due to the control of fishing pressure. Waters and angling success can greatly benefit whenever pressure can be limited, this is not always an option on public water. Rested waters are healthy waters. Another benefit of private water access is that the total number of anglers is strictly controlled, and the next reach of water is always ready to fish.
You Catch, We’ll Cook!
New this summer, you do the fishing, we’ll do the cooking! Soak in the Rocky Mountain views while you fish for trout on our scenic lower pond. Once you’ve made your catch, we’ll cook it up fresh for you to enjoy!
Take advantage of prime fly fishing time and plan your trip now! Our guides will get you outfitted and on the water in no time. Plus, we’ll even cook what you catch for you! Check out our fly fishing package for easy planning at the button below!