Become a Fishing Guide on Colorado's Uncompahgre River
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–5 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate physical fitness to handle rowing, standing for long periods, and carrying gear.
Overview
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.
Guide School
Fly Fishing Guide School/ Colorado Oar Cert
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About This Adventure
Join an immersive course on the Uncompahgre and Gunnison Rivers, designed for aspiring fishing guides and enthusiasts alike. Learn essential skills in fishing tactics, river navigation, and client interaction. Complete the course to become a hireable guide in Colorado or simply enhance your fishing and rowing abilities for unforgettable river adventures.
Dates
4/19/2023 - 4/25/2023 5/7/2023 - 5/13/2023
About
The course is designed for someone that wants to get a shot in the guiding industry focused mainly on the resourses in the western slope area or someone that just want to learn to be a better fisherman or a rower. The course will take place on the Uncompahgre River, and on the Gunnison River. Walk wade class will get you familiar with the bug life, fishing tactics and guiding someone on a river including gear, attitude and how to interact with a client as a guide. Row course part will get you familiar with the river, how to read a river as a fishing guide and how to safely navigate it to give your clients the most out of their day. After completing the course you will be hireable as a professional walk wade guide and float fishing guide in state of Colorado or... just know how to fish better and row your boat safely down a river.
Adventure Tips
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.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- River otters
- Bald eagles
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.
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Adventure Hotspots in Grand Junction
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waders
Keep dry and warm while fishing in cooler water during spring sessions.
spring specific
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduce glare and protect your eyes for better water visibility.
summer|null specific
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 specific