Willowfly Anglers is pleased to offer a new selection of Premium Walk/Wade Trips for the 2021 fishing season. These new wading options will complement the diverse array of public and private fishing locations where we already guide. The new locations are considered “backcountry streams”, and involve a longer drive time (1-2 hrs.) and some moderate hiking to get to the water (30 minutes on a level trail). Backcountry fishing offers solitude in these remote areas plus excellent dry fly fishing, beautiful scenery, and abundant wildlife.
Opportunistic Trout
We are extremely fortunate in the Upper Gunnison watershed to have access to dozens of rivers and streams and many of these are within an hour of the Willowfly Anglers fly shop. More remote streams, however, offer an experience of solitude similar to that of private water. This means that anglers willing to make the journey to these streams will be rewarded with unpressured trout! I love to fish a backcountry stream with an attractor dry fly such as an Amy’s Ant or a Royal Wulff. Many days I won’t need to bother with a dropper because these uneducated trout are opportunistic feeders who love to rise to a dead-drifting dry fly. Who doesn’t love throwing big dries to willing trout in the summertime?!
Another reason you might consider a backcountry stream trip in 2021 is the unbelievable beauty you’ll find on the remote blue lines of the Gunnison Country. They say trout live in pretty places, and our fisheries certainly confirm that claim. Additionally, some of the most memorable wildlife sightings in my life have been while fishing backcountry streams. You may see elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, eagles, falcons, hawks, and even moose. Definitely plan on bringing your camera with you on a premium backcountry trip!
Remote Beauty
If you’re an angler who has fished the famed local waters of Almont and you’re looking to explore more remote areas, put this new trip option on your list. Likewise, this trip would be a great option for those looking to enjoy some great dry fly fishing on smaller waters. Regardless of ability level, this trip has something for everyone. I truly believe you will enjoy the overall experience of a backcountry stream trip. If you’d like to know more, or have specific questions, give us a call and we’d be happy to help you out.
Tight lines and I hope to see you on the water this summer!
Patrick Blackdale is the Assistant Outfitting Manager, and a fly fishing guide at Three Rivers Resort in Almont, Colorado. Willowfly Anglers is the guide service at Three Rivers Resort. He guides on all of the local rivers including the Gunnison, Taylor, and East Rivers. Three Rivers Resort is the perfect base camp for a variety of fishing adventures. The resort offers cabins, lodge rooms, and vacation homes. Visit our fly shop and Orvis Endorsed guide service with premium leases for private fishing on local ranch lands. Contact at 970-641-1303 or www.3riversresort.com.
