This list includes everything you need to consider when high alpine fly fishing. These lakes are often nestled between 14,000' peaks, located deep in the wilderness, which is evidence of a true Colorado adventure. Remember, always follow fishing regu...
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Planning
Gear
Planning
Dream big, plan well, work hard, and smile always. This list are some essential to plan your true Colorado fly fishing experience.
Check the fishing regulations and licensing before you go.
Check Fishing Regulations Before You Go
The more you learn about fish, the more you catch. Read up.
Do your research, know your fish
You can learn on your own or you can learn from the best
Take a fly fishing class
This is a great option to take some of the guessing out of the mix and have a great experience whether you're a novice or a veteran.
Consider asking a guide
The coolest way to experience all of what high alpine lakes in Colorado have to offer.
Heli-Fly Fishing
If you can, you should! Know your route, always drive responsible, and have a blast!
Colorado UTV Rentals
This is the best way to access high alpine fishing spots. It's exercise, you hear all the sounds, and you see more of the sights along the way.
Consider backpacking - My personal favorite
Using a checklist is a really wise idea
Use a checklist, bring what you absolutely have to
Gear
There's no bad weather, just bad gear. These are the essential for a weekend backpack hiking trip to a high alpine Colorado lake for some EPIC fly fishing!
This is absolutely essential to take all the other gear. Get as small as you can to fit your stuff. Remember to pack light.
Pick a backpack that's comfortable and lightweight
It comes down to weight and how many occupants you will have in the tent. Think small, cuddle more.
Pick a backpacking tent
I love my sleeping bag. I got it years ago and it still does the job. If you buy cheap, you'll buy again.
Pick a sleeping bag based on how cold it will be outside
It's best to have a headlamp with a long battery life
Carry a headlamp for early morning starts
Boils water in 100 seconds!
Auto Ignition Backpacking Stove for Freeze Dried Meals, coffee, etc
Just incase you don't catch some fish
Freeze Dried Meals - Just add hot water
Super light weight
Backpacking Utinsel Set
Having satellite communication helps you stay oriented and safe during backcountry trips
Garmin inReach Mini GPS
You'll thank me when you're resting in your hammock!
Packable Hammock
Mandatory on a trip in the backcountry
Waterproof Hiking Jacket
Staying dry is a must!
Waterproof Hiking Pants
Don't go cheap on your feet, staying dry is the name of the game.
Hiking Socks
Hands down my favorite hiking boot
La Sportiva Hiking Footwear | REI Co-op
These are great options to get started!
Packable Fly Fishing Rod & Reel Combo
Pack this in your backpack. This is excellent to have for hard to reach gear when you're in the perfect fishing hole.
Fly Fishing Vest
For those hard to reach fishing spots!
Packable fishing waders
Always use a net for catch and release and general care for the fish
Collapsible Fly Fishing Net
Barbless hooks makes fishing more challenging and it's best practice
Use Barbless Fly Fishing Hooks
Fill this up on your way out and refill using a water filtration system when you get there
Backpacking Water Bottle
This is my favorite water filtration system for backpacking. Water is too heavy to carry it all at once. Fill up when you get there.
