Crested Butte Angler

Wading is how this water gets fished, and the shop is direct about it: the majority of its wade trips take place on the East and the Gunnison. The days are built around instruction, with each client’s ability assessed first so the beat suits the angler rather than the other way round, and the surrounding country offers small streams, tailwaters, freestone rivers, backcountry lakes and reservoirs to move between as conditions shift. The backcountry above town carries rainbows, browns, brookies and cutthroat across miles of trout water, and guides here are used to teaching children and families as readily as solitary anglers or larger parties. Most wade days meet at the shop between eight and nine in the morning, and the house recommendation is the half day, four hours on the water. A half day costs $395 for one rod, $495 for two and $595 for three; a full day is $495, $595 and $795. Guide, waders and boots, rod and reel, terminal tackle and flies are all provided, leaving only the Colorado licence, transport and gratuity to the angler, who is asked to bring layers, a hat, polarised glasses, sun protection and a rain jacket.