DESCRIPTION

Join a former fly fishing guide on the beautiful East River near the Roaring Judy Fish Hatchery for a relaxed, beginner‑friendly fly fishing experience designed just for COSA attendees. Participants will head to a public access point to learn the basics of fly fishing, including fundamental casting techniques, reading the water, and understanding river etiquette. We will also casually discuss some of the everyday challenges of managing a popular public fishery, the primary focus of this session is to get outside, learn a new skill, and enjoy the river. No prior fishing experience is necessary, and experienced anglers are welcome as well. $10 fee

ADDITIONAL INFO:

Carpool (sign up required) or On you Own
Parking is available in a spacious, level, gravel lot.

EXPERIENCE LEVEL:

• Novice/Beginner
• The route to the river follows mostly flat packed‑dirt singletrack trails. The final approach into the water does include short, steep, or eroded embankments.
• Expect about 0.5–1 mile of total walking over uneven ground. River wading will consist of 1–2 hours in slow‑to‑moderate currents on slippery, algae‑coated rocks.
• Restrooms are only at the main parking area
• The riparian habitat brings insects and occasional wildlife.
• A CO Fishing License is required for this field trip.

What to bring:

• Be prepared with adequate sun protection, insect repellent, and also be prepared for changing weather conditions such as wind and rain.
• A fly fishing rod & reel and waders/boots are all items necessary for this trip. If needed, equipment can be rented at Dragonfly Anglers in Downtown Crested Butte for $20 for a rod & reel combo and $20 for boots & wader combo. Be sure to reserve your gear for the day beforehand @ https://dragonflyanglers.com/.
• Also required for this field trip will be a Colorado fishing license, one can be obtained for $18.07 for a 1-day Colorado Resident and must be acquired and paid for prior to the start of the fishing excursion.
• Other helpful items are: polarized sunglasses, sun protection such as sunscreen, sun shirts, hats, and a fishing net.
• Other accessories such fishing tackle and flies themselves will be provided by the guide of this event.