Essential Gear for Your First Guided Fly Fishing Trip

What to Expect from a Guided Trip

Your first guided fly fishing trip is an exciting milestone. Unlike solo fishing adventures, a guided trip provides professional instruction, local knowledge, and often includes much of the necessary equipment. However, bringing the right personal gear ensures comfort and maximizes your time on the water.

What Your Guide Provides

Most professional fly fishing guides supply the essential fishing equipment:

• Fly rod and reel – Appropriate for local conditions and target species
• Flies – A selection matched to current hatches and conditions
• Leaders and tippet – Properly sized for the fishing situation
• Waders and boots (usually available upon request)
• Landing net – For safely handling fish
• Fishing license (sometimes included, always verify)

Always confirm what's included when booking your trip, as offerings vary between guide services.

Essential Personal Items

Clothing and Layers

Colorado weather can change dramatically throughout the day. Layering is essential:

Base Layer

• Moisture-wicking shirt – Avoid cotton; choose synthetic or merino wool
• Lightweight long-sleeve option – Sun protection and warmth
• Quick-dry pants or shorts – Convertible pants are ideal

Insulation Layer

• Fleece or lightweight down jacket – For cool mornings and evenings
• Vest – Adds warmth without restricting casting

Outer Layer

• Rain jacket – Waterproof and breathable (Gore-Tex or similar)
• Wind shell – For breezy conditions

"I always tell my clients to bring one more layer than they think they'll need. Starting cold and wet ruins the day, but you can always shed layers if you get warm." – Lia Barskey

Footwear

If your guide doesn't provide waders and boots:

• Wading boots – With felt or rubber soles (check local regulations)
• Neoprene socks or wader booties – For warmth in cold water
• Gravel guards – Keep debris out of your boots

Even if waders are provided, bring:

• Extra socks – Wool or synthetic, never cotton
• Sandals or camp shoes – For lunch breaks and around the vehicle

Sun and Weather Protection

Sun Protection

Colorado's high altitude intensifies UV exposure:

• Hat with brim – Baseball cap or wide-brimmed hat for sun protection
• Polarized sunglasses – Essential for seeing fish and protecting eyes
• Neck gaiter or buff – Versatile sun and wind protection
• Sunscreen – SPF 30+ waterproof formula, reef-safe preferred
• Lip balm with SPF – Prevents painful chapped lips

Additional Weather Gear

• Waterproof gloves or fingerless gloves – For cold, wet conditions
• Beanie or warm hat – Essential for early morning fishing
• Hand warmers – Chemical heat packs for frigid days

Accessories and Tools

Must-Have Accessories

• Fishing vest or chest pack – Keeps essentials accessible
• Nippers or scissors – For cutting line and tippet
• Hemostats or forceps – For removing hooks safely
• Strike indicators – If nymphing (your guide may provide)
• Small fly box – For personal favorite patterns
• Waterproof phone case – Protects electronics and allows photos

Nice-to-Have Items

• Fishing journal and pen – Record conditions and lessons learned
• Compact camera – Better photos than most phones
• Dry bag – Keep electronics and extra clothing dry
• Backup polarized glasses – In case you lose or break your primary pair

Food and Hydration

Water and Drinks

• Water bottle or hydration pack – Aim for 2-3 liters per person
• Electrolyte packets – For longer days in hot weather
• Thermos with hot beverage – Coffee or tea for cool mornings

Snacks and Meals

Many guides provide lunch, but always bring snacks:

• Energy bars or trail mix – Quick energy on the water
• Fresh fruit – Apples and oranges travel well
• Jerky or protein snacks – Sustained energy
• Sandwich or wrap – If lunch isn't provided

First Aid and Personal Care

• Basic first aid kit – Bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers
• Personal medications – Including any prescriptions
• Insect repellent – For mosquitoes and biting flies
• Blister prevention – Moleskin or athletic tape
• Allergy medication – Antihistamines if needed

What NOT to Bring

Leave these items at home or in the vehicle:

• Cotton clothing – Stays wet and loses insulating properties
• Valuable jewelry – Can get lost or damaged
• Excessive gear – Your guide provides fishing equipment
• Strong scents – Some believe cologne/perfume spooks fish
• Unnecessary electronics – Focus on the experience

Seasonal Considerations

Spring (April-May)

• Extra warm layers – Water temperatures are still cold
• Rain gear – Spring weather is unpredictable
• Waterproof gloves – For cold, wet conditions

Summer (June-August)

• Light, breathable clothing – Heat can be intense
• Extra sun protection – Higher UV at altitude
• Bug repellent – Mosquitoes and biting flies are active

Fall (September-October)

• Multiple layers – Temperature swings are dramatic
• Warm gloves and hat – Mornings can be freezing
• Extra dry layers – Weather is increasingly variable

Pre-Trip Checklist

The night before your guided trip, verify you have:

1. ☑ Confirmed reservation and meeting location
2. ☑ Appropriate clothing in layers
3. ☑ Sun and weather protection
4. ☑ Water and snacks
5. ☑ Personal medications and first aid
6. ☑ Fishing license (if not provided by guide)
7. ☑ Camera or phone for photos
8. ☑ Cash for tipping (15-20% of trip cost is standard)

Final Thoughts

Being properly prepared allows you to focus on learning, enjoying the scenery, and catching fish rather than dealing with discomfort or missing essential items. Your guide's expertise combined with your preparation creates the foundation for an outstanding day on the water.

Remember, every angler's needs are slightly different. Use this guide as a starting point and adjust based on personal preferences, physical needs, and specific trip requirements. When in doubt, contact your guide beforehand – they'll be happy to provide specific recommendations for your upcoming adventure.