The snow in Vail in excellent. The fishing has been just as good. Our winter guides have been floating the lower Colorado River and having some great days. Even on the colder mornings up valley, the temperature is moderate and generally 15 degrees down valley on the Colorado. The guys continue to nymph the big holes and some others that are less visible with midge patterns and other attractor patterns. This time of year we generally are looking for the big Rainbows which are harder to find at other times of the year when there is more water in the river. The most productive time of the day is generally from 11-4 . Give the skiing a break and try some winter fly fishing and we think you will be suprised. We are also now a booking agent for Angling Destinations and can help you with all of your destination travel needs with our full service fly shop and experienced staff. Our first hosted trip will be to Campeche in November 2006. Please call for more details.

The fly fishing report from the Vail Valley:

The fishing has been good but the cooler temps and the relentless snow have put a slight damper on things becoming consistent. We have been doing float trips on the lower Colorado River with some mixed results. In general if you have some skills you can catch fish if you don't it may be difficult. The float guides have been nymphing up some decent rainbows and browns and occasionally hooking the man on the lower river. We have had several wade trips on the lower Eagle River with great success. Again nymphing has been the most productive and the wade is a much more forgiving venue for the beginner angler.

The snow pack is said to be 138% of normal and we are setting up for a huge water year. The fishing should be excellent all spring. There will be no water shortage this summer and we should see some of the best fly fishing conditions since 1998 or so.

Call the shop to book your winter fly fishing trip or just click on the reservations button on the home page and send it in. Pete, Rob, Aaron, Paul, and Rob Waters are ready when you are.

See you on the water.

John C Cochran