C Lazy U Ranch Blog

A Beginner’s Guide to Fly Fishing

May 13, 2021

Ever thought of giving fly fishing a try but worried it would take years to learn? With the right gear and a little help from our expert guides, fly fishing can be fun for the whole family, whatever your skill level!

fly fishing

During your all-inclusive family vacation at C Lazy U ranch, our experienced guides will teach you the fly fishing basics, outfit you with the right gear, and reveal some of the best hidden spots for angling in the state of Colorado.

What Exactly is Fly Fishing?

While other types of angling use the weight of the bait to cast, fly fishing uses the weight of the line to cast out into the water. This minimizes splashing that could startle a prize fish away. Fly fishing is mainly used on rivers and still waters, and can give you a better chance of catching certain species such as trout, salmon, bass, and pike.

Unlike traditional fishing where you simply drop a line into the water, fly fish casting is best suited to wide open spaces — and that’s one thing that makes our sprawling dude ranch ideal for beginners.

Learn more: 5 Facts About Fly Fishing in Colorado

What is the Right Gear for Fly Fishing?

fly fishing rod

When you book a fly fishing class or guided fishing trip at C Lazy U, we provide all the equipment you need for a fun and relaxing day on the water. Your expert fishing guide will outfit you with the perfect fly fishing setup for beginners, with Orvis rods, reels, flies, waders, and boots. All you need to do is bring yourself and a Colorado fishing license, which can be booked online or in our Outfitters Cabin.

How Do I Learn to Fly Fish?

If it’s your first time picking up a rod, our experienced guides will share pro tips on fly rod setup, tying knots, selecting the right flies, and casting basics.

fly fishing string

Finding the right location can be another challenge for many fly fishing newbies — but not to worry.  During your lesson or guided trip, our fly fishing experts will share their favorite angling spots on our 8,500 acres of ranch land and private stretches of the Colorado River. With its pristine rivers and lakes, C Lazy U is a prime environment to dip your toes (and waders) into this highly addictive sport as you connect with the outdoors, relax, and bond as a family.

Intrigued to learn more? Download our fly fishing brochure or contact our ranch concierge for help with pricing, details, and scheduling.

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You don’t need a time machine to experience the thrills and excitement of the real American West, and you don’t need a travel agent to plan an unforgettable family vacation. A Colorado dude ranch vacation is just the thing for all adventure seekers and city slickers looking to immerse themselves in wide-open spaces, the creak…

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From the Horse's Mouth

I'm still blissed out after our weekend at the ranch. Philip and I have traveled all over the state and truly, it was one of the best trips we've ever had. Thanks so much for extending the experience to us. Although ranch stays are trending and there are so many options in Colorado, I don't think I really understood the allure until visiting for myself. For one, I'm so glad we went in the wintertime. In chatting with the staff (who were all fabulous — service was a big stand-out feature), I got the impression that January-March is a quiet season. But man, are people missing out. We saw so much wildlife, enjoyed guided experiences with such intimate groups, and had a level of privacy I've never come across at an all-inclusive resort. The activities were abundant, the facilities and rental gear were high quality, and the food! The wine pairing dinner was an unexpected surprise and again, so intimate and enjoyable. The whole experience was such a treat. Thank you again. High praise all around. There's really so much to love about the destination.

~ Abigail B., 01-24-2025

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