Ed’s Note: I write this post amidst a January snowfall here in Colorado, and although we fish our tailwaters year-round, now is the time of year we dream of crystal blue water, sandy flats, gentle sea breezes, and wildly strong saltwater fish. Looking out my window now at the wind and snow, I am especially wistful for warmer weather. Winter in the Rockies is pretty, but there is nothing like a trip to the tropics, and now is the best time of year to get away from the snow-capped peaks and enjoy some time on the beach with some of the most beautiful, powerful, and frustrating fish that swim. Wi ..read more

Winter fly fishing in Middle Park isn’t for everyone. It can be cold (sometimes very cold), wading is tough (slippery and slimy rocks), and access often requires a bit of effort—and occasionally can be strenuous. But if you’re up for an adventure, you’ll be rewarded with solitude, stunning water that could be straight out of a fly fishing magazine, and plenty of fish. So check the forecast, dress appropriately, and let’s go! Grand County, where the Upper Colorado and Williams Fork rivers flow, is known for its rugged beauty and offers a range of outdoor activities year-round. Located at an ele ..read more

As the days shorten and the temperatures drop, many fly fishermen begin to hang up their rods for the season. But for those in the know, winter can offer some of the best fishing of the year—especially along the Arkansas River in Pueblo, Colorado. Known for its excellent year-round fishery, the “Ark” (particularly the tailwater section below Pueblo Reservoir) offers an underrated winter angling experience that rewards those who arewilling to venture out. 5280 Angler guides Tom Caprio and Jeremy Hamilton recently presented a tips & tricks show to a live audience at the Orvis Park Meadows re ..read more

As guides, we understand that the concept of fly fishing, when you’ve never been before, can be a daunting endeavor. Everything from where are you going, is the water going to be dangerous, what gear do you need to bring, are you going to be walking/hiking a long way, etc. can simply be overwhelming. Of […] The post What to Expect When You’re Expecting… to Go Fly Fishing. first appeared on Colorado Fly Fishing Guides ..read more

Three Lessons Learned During My Rookie Guide Season 5280 Angler fly fishing guide Tyler Wilson has a focused addiction to the pursuit of Colorado trout, and he completed his rookie season in 2023. Completely “hooked” on the sport himself, Tyler seeks to share his passion with guests through each cast, drift, set, and battle to […] The post 3 Lessons Learned During My Rookie Guide Season first appeared on Colorado Fly Fishing Guides ..read more

Planning a Colorado Ski Vacation? There are many wonderful places to cast a fly rod along open water near the resorts. Check out guide Tom Caprio’s favorite destinations and tips below! Almost every Colorado ski resort has a winter fishery nearby. If you are planning a ski vacation, you can also take advantage of beautiful […] The post Colorado Ski and Fish Fun – Tips from Guide & Ski Bum Tom Caprio! first appeared on Colorado Fly Fishing Guides ..read more

LATE NOVEMBER TRIP REPORT Fishing has been productive during our recent late fall trips to the Arkansas River below Pueblo Reservoir as well as along the Williams Fork/Upper Colorado.  Stream flows are healthy for this time of year, and the weather has been tolerable or better for fish and anglers alike. With the quality flows […] The post GUIDE REPORT: Late November Tips & Tactics first appeared on Colorado Fly Fishing Guides ..read more

I was cogitating on what subject I should write about for this month’s article when my friend Dan e-mailed me to ask me a question regarding soft hackle flies.  As I thought of the answer, I also thought this would be a great subject for this month’s article. The earliest mentioning of Soft Hackle wet […] The post Soft Hackles first appeared on Colorado Fly Fishing Guides ..read more

OUR PREMIER DESTINATION, FEATURED ON THE DESTINATION ANGLER PODCAST! 5280 Angler guide Jeremy Hamilton sat down with host Steve Haigh of the Destination Angler Podcast to describe the Boxwood Gulch Ranch fishing experience. Jeremy has guided our premier properties along the North Fork South Platte for over a decade and offers a lot of insight […] The post Listen to Guide Jeremy Hamilton on the Destination Angler Podcast! first appeared on Colorado Fly Fishing Guides ..read more

When 5280 Angler was founded over a decade ago, our team had a vision to provide excellent customer service, premier instruction, outstanding equipment, and friendly knowledgeable guides on all our Colorado fly fishing adventures. Our goal was to offer a wide menu of excellent fishing destinations for individuals or groups throughout the state of Colorado. […] The post 5280 Angler is Now an Orvis Endorsed Outfitter! first appeared on Colorado Fly Fishing Guides ..read more