Join Ed's Fly Shop Guide School on Colorado’s Uncompahgre River to master fishing and river navigation skills. Perfect for aspiring guides or anglers wanting to sharpen their expertise.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–5 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate physical fitness to handle rowing, standing for long periods, and carrying gear.
Wildlife
History
The Uncompahgre River region has long been a prized fishing destination with cultural significance to native Ute tribes.
Conservation
Ed’s Fly Shop emphasizes catch-and-release practices and supports efforts to maintain healthy river ecosystems.
Ed's Fly Shop
Join Ed's Fly Shop Guide School on Colorado’s Uncompahgre River to master fishing and river navigation skills. Perfect for aspiring guides or anglers wanting to sharpen their expertise.
Ed's Fly Shop in Montrose, Colorado operates guided fly fishing trips and instructional guide courses across western Colorado’s premier rivers.
The outfitter runs full-day walk‑wade and float trips on the Lower Gunnison River, guided full‑day float trips targeting Brown and Rainbow trout, and multi‑day guided float/backcountry adventures in the Gunnison Gorge that include gourmet meals and wilderness hikes.
Trips on the San Miguel River provide accessible eight‑hour walk‑wade outings beneath red canyon walls, suitable for families and anglers of all skill levels.
The Uncompahgre River float trip offers a fast‑paced six‑hour run through narrow water and challenging white‑water sections for confident, experienced anglers.
Ed's Fly Shop also operates an immersive Guide School on the Uncompahgre and Gunnison Rivers that teaches fishing tactics, river navigation, rowing, and client care; graduates can become hireable guides in Colorado or improve their own guiding and angling skills.
On select trips guides prepare lunches and drinks, while multi‑day Gunnison Gorge experiences feature professionally prepared gourmet meals.
The Lower Gunnison full‑day float follows a catch‑and‑release policy and focuses on conservation of Gold Medal trout fisheries. Guides emphasize safety, Leave No Trace ethics, and river stewardship.
As a Montrose‑based outfitter, Ed's Fly Shop focuses on local rivers, experienced guides, and a range of trip formats from family‑friendly walk‑wade days to rigorous float trips and multi‑day wilderness expeditions.
Reservations are based in Montrose, and trips depart from local river access points with gear recommendations provided by the outfitter to prepare anglers for Colorado river conditions. Seasonal scheduling available.
Base Location
Montrose, CO
Local outfitter serving western Colorado
Trip Durations
6 hr–3 day
Options from short to multi‑day
Tours Offered
7 unique tours
Float, walk‑wade, and Guide School
River Specialties
Gunnison & San Miguel
Gold Medal and gorge fisheries
Reserve guided walk‑wade days, float trips, or the Guide School — expert guides, local rivers, and conservation‑minded outings await.
Practice River Safety
Always wear a properly fitted personal flotation device and understand swift water risks during courses.
Bring Waterproof Gear
Keep your fishing tackle and important items dry with waterproof bags or cases.
Respect Local Wildlife
Minimize disturbance by maintaining distance from animals and packing out all trash.
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during summer sessions when the sun is strongest.
Waders
Keep dry and warm while fishing in cooler water during spring sessions.
spring
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduce glare and protect your eyes for better water visibility.
summer|null
Compact First Aid Kit
Preparedness for any minor injuries during hands-on river training is critical.
Layered Clothing
Adapt to changing temperatures on and off the river with breathable, moisture-wicking layers.
fall|winter