All full day trips are 6-8 hours of fishing depending on you and weather. Day trips include everything you will need for a day on the water including lunch, beverages, and necessary fishing tackle. If anyone in your party has food allergies please make sure to shed light 24 hours before the trip. If you’re scheduling a wade trip and you do not have waders, please let us know ASAP.
Rods
Our most commonly used rods are 9 foot 5 and 6 weights. The best all around rod for fishing large rivers like the San Juan and Chama are a 5 or 6 wt and the best all around rod for the smaller rivers like the Pecos or Brazos is a 4 weight. Often we fish two rods when float fishing the San Juan; A 5 or 6 wt for fishing nymphs and a 4 or 5 wt for throwing dry flies depending on conditions.
Due to the vast rod market today, I try to provide a wide selection of the latest rods technology for anglers to chose from that matches their casting style. Please let us know if you have a preference and the type of fishing you wish to do. On larger rivers, fast action rods that create high line speed that help cut the wind and make longer casts is a common choice. A medium action rod for spring creeks help with some of the finesse casting that can become necessary. For throwing streamers today’s 6wt fast action rods bring those Browns to the Boat. Since we’re on the topic, I like to use 10 foot 5 and 6wt rods the majority of the time when drifting nymphs. They make mending easier and extend the reach of the angler. I will also alway have either a rod set up for dry flies or streamers depending on current conditions. If you decide to bring your whispering wand along, bring your 5 or 6 wt loaded with weight forward line.
Reels
A reel with a decent disk drag is nice. 90% of the time the reel just holds your line, so you don't need the highest end reel. That said, when fishing small flies on very light tippet to massive trout a combination of a soft responsive rod tip and a smooth strong drag are key to landing your trophy. I will deploy a variety of reels to clients, but I seem to find I am putting a Galvan Torque in the hands of most. I’ve caught and can attest that most of my clients and friends have landed large San Juan Trout with a Galvan Torque on line duty.
Again, you do not have to bring any tackle if you do not choose. If you want to bring your own kit and would like current recommendation see our Death Row Rant for current conditions or call/email. If you would like to mix a little wade fishing in on your float trip waders rental can be arranged. Durning summer months wet wading is an option.
Clothing/Gear
Be mindful of the season and dress in layers. In the boat waders are not necessary at any time but they do help keep you warn and dry during colder months. New Mexico’s sun kissed days produce epic days of fishing year around. But it will also light your skin on fire at the same time. Sunglasses are a must, a decent pair of shades will protect your eyes and help you spot trout.