5280 Angler Trout Checklist 2024
Prepare For Fly Fishing
HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR GUIDED FLY FISHING ADVENTURE
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- Prepare For Guided Fly Fishing
Get ready for an unforgettable guided fly fishing experience with 5280 Angler! We provide all the gear you need, from waders and rods to flies and lunch on full-day trips. Just bring your essentials like a rain jacket, layered clothing, sunscreen, and fishing license. Stay safe, hydrated, and gratuity for guides is appreciated.
EQUIPMENT
5280 Angler and your professional guide WILL provide:
- Waders & boots are provided by 5280 Angler Outfitting ®, you may bring your own if you prefer.
- Rods & Reels are provided by your guide. We typically use 9 foot 4, 5, & 6 weight rods, depending upon location and conditions. Of course, you are welcome to bring your favorite.
- Flies are provided by your guide.
- Leaders, tackle, and tippet are provided by your guide.
- Fresh drinking water is provided by your guide, but to help reduce the use of single-use plastics, we highly encourage you to provide your own water in a reusable container.
- Lunch is provided on full day trips.
Items you should bring:
- Rain Jacket and clothing fit for variable mountain weather. Layered synthetics work best.
- Sunscreen and hat.
- Thick pair of socks – such as Merino 5280 Angler Graphic Artwool.
- Comfortable/breathable pants (e.g. yoga pants, joggers, hiking pants).
- Wading Staff – if needed.
- Glasses – A MUST FOR EYE PROTECTION. Polarized lenses are best.
- Change of dry clothes – just in case.
- Any required medications/personal items you will need.
- Fishing License - Purchase online in advance of trip via Colorado Parks & Wildlife.
- Small zip lock bags – optional – for anything you don’t want to get wet.
SEASONAL WEATHER INFORMATION
May-October has a very wide range of temperature swings, with the average daytime temperature between 60-95 degrees. Nighttime temps can fall below 40 degrees even during the middle of summer. During summer, precipitation can come anytime. Weather can change rapidly in the mountains. Ideal clothing is worn in layers and quick drying fabric is optimal. Consider clothing to protect yourself from sun as well. Wool socks are preferrable to cotton.
Nov-May is typically cooler/cold with average morning temps in the teens and twenties typically warming up to the thirties or mid-forties. Again, ideal clothing is worn in layers and quick drying Boxwood Gulch Ranch Trophy Troutfabric is optimal. It is advisable to wear an insulated base layer (not jeans), polypropylene, capilene, or thermals work very well for winter fishing. A mid-layer of Polar-Fleece or wool is a very good and a light warm winter jacket for those colder mornings is advisable. A warm stocking cap and gloves are usually worn in the colder mornings. Dress in layers so that you can shed clothing as the day warms.
Safety
- Most fishing is done at altitude, so drink plenty of water in advance of the trip. Sunglasses are a necessity to protect eyes
Gratuity
- Guide gratuity is not included (unless pre-paid via corporate/group event) and is not mandatory. However, gratuity is much appreciated both as part of a professional guide’s salary and as feedback for a job well done. Gratuity amounts are discretionary. Customary to the industry as a whole, for example, is 20% for a day of quality, professional service.
