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Guided Fly Fishing Trips in Pagosa Springs, CO

Pagosa's Oldest Guide Service — Shop, Trips & Local Expertise

Pagosa's #1 Fly Fishing Destination

Ski & Bow Rack has been at the heart of fly fishing in Pagosa Springs longer than any other outfitter in town. Whether you're looking to gear up at our full-service fly shop, book a guided trip on private or public water, or just get the latest hatch report from our expert staff — this is your starting point. We are a 'fly shop plus': Orvis dealer, oldest guide service in Pagosa, and the only outfitter with access to exclusive private ranch water.

Pagosa Springs' Oldest Fly Fishing Guide Service

We've been guiding Pagosa country longer than anyone else. Intimate knowledge of the San Juan River and surrounding waters.

Full-Service Fly Shop

Orvis dealer. Rods, reels, waders, boots, flies, leaders — everything you need. Expert staff who actually fish these waters.

All-Inclusive Guided Trips

Rods, reels, flies, leaders, waders, boots — even lunch on full-day outings. Just add a fishing license.

Exclusive Private Waters

Access to Weber Ranch and Snow Angel Ranch — private water unavailable anywhere else in the Pagosa area.

Free Saturday Casting Lessons

Every Saturday all summer, 10 AM. Open to all skill levels — a perfect introduction before a guided trip.

Shop Discounts for Guided Trip Guests

We offer a one-time 20% discount on shop gear within 72 hours of your guided trip.

Angler fly fishing the San Juan River near Pagosa Springs Colorado
Fly fishing on a mountain river in southwest Colorado
Casting a fly rod on a pristine Colorado mountain stream
Angler wading a high-country stream guided fly fishing trip near Pagosa Springs Colorado
Fly fishing guide with angler on the San Juan River Pagosa Springs Colorado

Everything Fly Fishing, All in One Place

Fly Shop

Fly Shop

Southern Colorado's premier fly shop. Orvis dealer carrying Simms, Winston, Echo, Lamson, Ross, Fishpond, Costa, and more. Fly bins for days — nymphs, dries, streamers, Euro patterns. Detailed local maps and hatch reports.

Guided Fly Fishing Trips

Guided Fly Fishing Trips

Half-day, full-day, and full-day-plus guided trips for all skill levels. Public and private water options. All gear provided. Weber Ranch and Snow Angel Ranch exclusive private water.

Free Casting Lessons

Free Casting Lessons

Free fly casting lessons every Saturday at 10 AM from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Open to all skill levels. Perfect if you're new to fly fishing — come learn before you book a guided trip.

Waters We Guide

Weber Ranch

More than five miles of private water on the upper San Juan River. Classic freestone river with trophy rainbows and browns, cutthroats and brookies. Exclusive to Ski & Bow Rack.

Rio Grande National Forest

Located north and east of the continental divide with consistently cooler water. Wild trout in streams and small lakes. Real opportunities for the Colorado Grand Slam.

Snow Angel Ranch

Spring-fed ponds holding trophy rainbows, browns, cutthroats, and brook trout in the 20–24" range. No fishing license required. Great for beginners and larger groups.

Big Meadows Reservoir

A high-country gem in the Rio Grande National Forest, offering still-water fly fishing in a stunning alpine setting.

San Juan National Forest

High-alpine creeks and backcountry waters teeming with wild trout. Our guides know the trails and the fish.

Full Day Plus Trips

More time on the water — extended outings for the serious angler who wants to make the most of a day in the San Juan mountains.

Guided Trip Prices

Half Day Public (4 hrs)

  • 1 Angler
    $350
  • 2 Anglers
    $425
  • 3 Anglers
    $500

Full Day Public (8 hrs)

  • 1 Angler
    $450
  • 2 Anglers
    $550
  • 3 Anglers
    $650

Full Day Private (8 hrs)

  • 1 Angler
    $500
  • 2 Anglers
    $600
  • 3 Anglers
    $700

Full Day Plus (8+ hrs)

  • 1 Angler
    $600
  • 2 Anglers
    $700

All trips include water, snacks, and all gear (rods, reels, leaders, tippet, flies, waders, boots). Full day trips include lunch. More than three anglers? Give us a ring!

Cast Your Line in the San Juans

The San Juan River runs cold and clear through some of the most spectacular mountain country in Colorado. Our guides have spent their lives reading these waters — come fish with them.

What Our Clients Say...

My son and I travelled to Pagosa Springs specifically to chase trout… I never imagined the trip could be as good as it was. The time in the shop getting licenses and gear was efficient and the folks were great… Our guide was absolutely perfect for us.

— Doc M

FAQs

How much does a guided fly-fishing trip cost?

Trip prices vary by group size, location, and duration. Half-day public water trips range from $350 (1 angler) to $500 (3 anglers). Full-day public water trips range from $450 (1 angler) to $650 (3 anglers). Full-day private water trips range from $500 (1 angler) to $700 (3 anglers). Full Day Plus trips range from $600 (1 angler) to $700 (2 anglers). All prices are per guide.

Do I need to make a reservation for a guided fly-fishing trip?

Yes, we require at least 48-hour advance notice to book a guided trip. We recommend booking at least two weeks out to secure your preferred date, especially around busy holidays like the 4th of July.

How do I make a reservation for a guided fly-fishing trip?

You can book online through our booking portal at theguidenetwork.com, or call our shop at (970) 264-2370. Online booking is the fastest and most efficient option.

Do I need a Colorado State Fishing License for my guided fly-fishing trip?

Yes, a Colorado State Fishing License is required for all guided trips on public and private state water. The only exception is Snow Angel Ranch, which is private water that does not require a state license.

Where can I get a Colorado State Fishing License?

You can purchase a Colorado State Fishing License online through Colorado Parks & Wildlife (cpw.state.co.us) or in person at our shop. Please note that in-shop license purchases require cash or debit card — credit cards are not accepted for state license sales.

Should I book a half-day or a full-day guided fly-fishing trip?

We generally recommend a full-day trip for first-timers, since much of the first half is spent learning casting, mending, and hook-setting. However, during peak summer heat, some lower-elevation streams are only fishable in the early morning, which may restrict trips to a half-day. Our staff can help you decide based on your experience level and the conditions.

Can I take a guided fly-fishing trip if I have never fly-fished before?

Absolutely. Our guides are experienced instructors and can teach fly fishing from scratch. We also offer free fly-casting classes every Saturday from Memorial Day through Labor Day — taking a class before your guided trip is a great way to maximize your time on the water.

Do you provide equipment for guided fly-fishing trips?

Yes. All gear necessary for the trip is included at no extra cost: rods, reels, line, flies, leaders, tippet, waders, and boots. You do not need to bring your own equipment.

Are there any perks for booking a guided fly-fishing trip with Ski and Bow Rack?

Yes! Guided trip clients receive a one-time 20% discount on shop gear, flies, clothing, and more within 72 hours of their trip.

What should I bring on my guided fly-fishing trip?

We recommend bringing sunscreen, lip balm, a water bottle, snacks, a lightweight rain jacket, a fleece layer, a hat, and any required prescription medications. Dress in layers — mornings can be cool and afternoons warm. All fishing gear is provided.

What is the difference between public water and private water fly-fishing trips?

Public water refers to state water open to all anglers. We operate under National Forest and CPW permits to access these areas. Private water means we have leased exclusive fishing rights from private landowners, giving clients access to water unavailable to the general public. Private water typically holds larger, less-pressured fish but requires an additional rod fee paid to the landowner.

Where will I fish on my guided fly-fishing trip?

The specific location is determined by your guide on the day of the trip based on factors including your choice of public or private water, weather, flow rates, water temperatures, accessibility, and your group's fitness level. We guide on the San Juan River, Weber Ranch private water, Snow Angel Ranch stillwater, Big Meadows Reservoir, San Juan National Forest, and Rio Grande National Forest.

What fish can I expect to catch on a guided fly-fishing trip near Pagosa Springs?

Most trips target rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout, and cutthroat trout. The specific species available depend on your location. Some locations offer the opportunity for a Colorado Grand Slam — all four trout species in a single day.

Can I keep the fish I catch on my guided fly-fishing trip?

No. All of our guided fly-fishing trips are catch and release only.

Will I be grouped with strangers on my guided fly-fishing trip?

No. Your trip will always be private — just you, your group, and your guide. You will never be paired with other parties.

Your Total Outdoor Connection

Ski & Bow Rack

Expert Local Knowledge

We've spent our lives exploring these mountains and rivers. Let us share them with you.

Top-Quality Gear

From Orvis, Simms, Winston, and more — curated for the conditions you'll actually face.

Friendly, Personalized Service

Our staff are outdoor enthusiasts first. Honest advice, not a sales pitch.

Family Owned Since 1985

Four decades serving Pagosa Springs and the adventurers who love these mountains.

Get in Touch

Address

354 E Pagosa St., Pagosa Springs, CO 81147

Send a Message

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