The Best Fly Fishing Camps in Colorado
Would you like to join a fly fishing camp this summer in Colorado? In the state where Denver is the capital, located in the western U.S. and next to the Rocky Mountains, you’ll have the chance to experience some of the best fly fishing camps in the country.
Why Choose Colorado for a Fly Fishing Camp?
Colorado is home to some of the best rivers for fly fishing in the United States, with waterways flowing from the Rocky Mountains into vast plains. The Rocky Mountains, with over 50 peaks that exceed 13,000 feet and valleys crossed by rivers like the Arkansas, Gunnison, South Platte, and Roaring Fork, provide the perfect settings for fly fishing camps focused on trout fishing, designed for both kids and teens.
Here are some reasons why Colorado is an ideal destination for fishing camps:
- One of the best fishing destinations: Colorado is one of the top places to fish in the country. Rivers like Big Thompson, Roaring Fork, Frying Pan, and Yampa offer opportunities to fish various species of trout, such as Rainbow Trout, Cutthroat Trout (including several subspecies), Cut-bow, Brown Trout, and Brook Trout. Its stunning beauty, fishing lodges, and private waters make it a dream location for fly fishermen. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a summer fishing camp.
- Ideal national parks for fishing: Imagine fishing surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains or in the rivers and streams of national parks like Rocky Mountain National Park, Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve, or Mesa Verde National Park. The experiences and adventures you can have fishing in these locations are unparalleled.
- Expert instructors: Colorado is home to many renowned fly fishing companies, such as Colorado Trout Hunters, Trouts Fly Fishing, The Angler’s Covey, Vail Valley Anglers, Blue Quill Angler, Gunnison River Expeditions, and Eagle River Anglers. These companies have trained many passionate guides who love teaching young anglers. These instructors ensure that kids not only learn but also enjoy fly fishing while having an educational and fun experience.
- Ideal summer climate: The summer weather in Colorado is perfect for outdoor activities. With pleasant daytime temperatures and cooler nights, kids can enjoy fishing and other adventures without the scorching heat found in other places. The mountain air and altitude make the environment very comfortable and refreshing, ideal for a summer camp.
- Easy access from across the country: Colorado is well-connected with direct flights from many cities nationwide, making it easy for kids to reach the camps. Additionally, Denver and Colorado Springs, with their large airports, provide easy access to the camps, allowing children from different states to experience fishing in Colorado without complications.
The Best Fly Fishing Camps in Colorado for 2025
If your child is interested in learning fly fishing at one of Colorado’s top camps in 2025, here are some great options:
RMA’s Fly Fishing Summer Camps
- Location: Various locations in Rocky Mountain National Park (Boulder Creek, Big Thompson) and Sylvandale Ranch near Loveland, CO
- Duration: 3 days (multiple sessions throughout the summer)
- Ages: 9-14 years
- Price: $650 (deposit $300)
- Description: A day camp offering a hands-on fly fishing experience with a 3:1 camper-to-guide ratio. Participants fish in lakes, ponds, and streams, and learn about fly tying, knots, bug collection, and more.
- Time: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Lillard Fly Fishing Expeditions
- Programs:
- Colorado Adventure (June 16-23, July 16-23)
- Ages: 7th-10th grade students
- Location: Denver, CO
- Description: An adventure combining fly fishing with moderate hikes or canoe trips.
- Colorado Rocky Mountain Expedition (June 27-July 13)
- Ages: 9th grade students or incoming college freshmen
- Location: Denver, CO
- Description: An advanced program combining fishing, challenging hikes, and extended nature expeditions.
- Colorado Adventure (June 16-23, July 16-23)
Trout Unlimited (TU) Fly Fishing Camps
- Location: Colorado (Almont and Fort Collins)
- Programs:
- River Conservation & Fly Fishing Youth Camp (Almont, CO)
- Northern Colorado Youth Fly Fishing Day Camp (Fort Collins, CO)
Shredder Fly Fishing Summer Camps
- Location: Boulder, Denver, and Littleton, CO
- Duration: Various day camp sessions throughout the summer
- Ages: Kids and families (ages not specified)
- Description: A hands-on fly fishing experience for young anglers. Certified instructors offer personalized attention while participants learn about fish, insects, and casting techniques.
Cutthroat 2024 Kid’s Camp
- Location: Cutthroat Anglers, Colorado
- Duration: 3 days
- Ages: 10-14 years
- Price: $800 per child (maximum 6 children)
- Description: A guided camp teaching fly casting techniques, trout location, aquatic entomology, and conservation. Includes fly tying materials and conservation activities with Blue River Watershed.
- Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Contact: (970) 262-2878, ben@fishcolorado.com
Kids Fly Fishing Camp in Eagle Valley
- Location: Gypsum Recreation Center, CO
- Duration: 3 days
- Ages: 9-15 years
- Price: $175
- Description: An introduction to fly fishing, covering basic techniques like fly selection, casting, and fishing etiquette, all in a safe environment.
- Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Organizers: Trout Trickers and Mountain Recreation
Camp Caddis
- Location: Southwest Colorado (Upper Dolores River and Pa-Co-Chu-Puk State Park)
- Duration: 5 days
- Ages: 8-13 years
- Price: $1,350 per student
- Description: An immersive 5-day fly fishing camp with private waters, expert instruction, and a 4:1 guide-to-camper ratio. Campers learn fishing techniques, insect identification, fly tying, and more.
- Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Organizer: Telluride Outside
Front Range Anglers Kids Camp
- Location: Local Boulder waters, CO
- Duration: 5 days
- Ages: 8-14 years
- Price: $650 (without Orvis Encounter Rod/Reel Kit) or $775 (includes Orvis Encounter Outfit)
- Description: A co-ed camp that teaches casting techniques, fish identification, knot tying, and proper fish handling, including all necessary gear and a chance to keep the Orvis kit if purchased.
- Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Monday – Friday)
Camp Wannawannacatch'em – Rio Epic Fly Fishing
- Ages: 8-14 years
- Dates: July 29-Aug 2, Aug 5-9, Aug 11-16
- Price: Varies (call for booking)
- Description: A fun and engaging fly fishing camp for kids of all skill levels. Campers learn casting, knots, fishing techniques, and outdoor skills.
- Camp Options:
- Rad Rods (3rd-6th grade): Basic fly fishing
- Tech Teens (7th-9th grade): Advanced techniques
- Adventure Sleep-away (7th-9th grade): Wilderness fishing trip