It all started on an impromptu trip to Fort Collins. I met up with a friend from ski patrol who was about to embark on the float with nine friends. Well, a few people backed out last minute and I was invited to fill a seat in the boat.

We floated from just below Gore Canyon (near Kremmling, CO) to the small town of Burns, a 35 or so mile stretch of river. Our flotilla included a 14’ gear/fishing raft, a kayak, a whitewater canoe, and three “duckies.” A “ducky” is sort of like a hybrid between a kayak, a raft, and a pool toy.

We had a great time running a few rapids, relaxing in the sun, and, of course, fishing. A hopper/dropper rig tricked a few trout throughout the trip. Also, three of us commandeered the raft one morning and fished hard for rising brown trout in a couple of the river’s many backwater eddies. These fish were feeding on blue-winged olives and provided exciting dry fly fishing opportunities.

Besides providing a platform for fishing, the raft carried a lot of gear. Floating a river is the civilized way to travel, particularly when you are accustomed to backpacking. We were able to bring a lot of gear including coolers well-stocked with food and beer. Nothing like floating a beautiful river, making new friends, feasting on good meals, and catching trout!

See the photos HERE