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Guadalupe River Float Trips Based on 1 or 2 anglers
Full Day Float – $400

Float trips are a fantastic way to fish the Guadalupe River!  Our AIRE raft rigged with an NRS fishing frame is the ideal boat for fly fishing the Guadalupe.  The boat seats up to two anglers and is extremely stable no matter if we are fishing slower water or running rapids.

Target Species:

  • Rainbow Trout

Other Species Present:

  • Smallmouth Bass
  • Guadalupe Bass
  • Largemouth Bass
  • Striped Bass
  • Rock Bass
  • Sunfish

What is Provided

  • All Flies
  • Leaders and Tippet
  • Drinks on half day trips
  • Lunch and Drinks on full day trips
  • Hours of on the water fly fishing instruction
  • Transportation to and from the river if desired
  • Fly Rods and Reels are available by request

Recommended Tackle and Gear

8-9 foot, 4-6 weight fly rod
Any fly rod in the length and weight range listed above should be more than adequate for all species of fish we will be targeting.

4-6 weight fly reel with a smooth drag
Normally the fly reel is just a place to store the fly line that is not in use; however, when a big fish latches onto your fly and runs for the next county you will be glad for high quality drag!  Trout on the Guadalupe run hard and fast so a good drag is not just optional — its essential.

Felt or good rubber soled wading boots
The Guadalupe River has a unique streambed that varies from fine gravel to limestone ruts.  Either sole will work fine — with the advent of rubber soles some have boot manufacturers have done very well some not so much.  Make sure the boots have a somewhat aggressive tread pattern so that you will not slip on the ruts in the limestone.  (We use Simms Streamtread soles)

Wet wading socks – preferably neoprene (warmer months)
This single item can make a huge difference when wade fishing the Guadalupe during the summer months.  The neoprene wet wading socks that I use act as a barrier against sand and gravel and they add cushion to every step.  Layer the socks for additional effectiveness and comfort.
(We use Simms Guard socks as an outer layer with their standard Neoprene sock as an inner layer)

Polarized Sunglasses with amber or copper lenses — gray is better than nothing but with the fish will be easier to see with amber or copper lenses. (We use Costa del Mar glasses with copper and amber lenses)

Waders (cooler months)
In cooler water and weather temperatures we do recommend wearing a good pair of breathable waders.  Neoprene waders quite frankly get too hot for most of the fishing we do.

Trip Preparations

  • Practice Casting: Practice distance, accuracy, and form in several different casts. (overhead, roll cast, sidearm, etc…)  Making good presentations will catch you more fish than having the “right” fly.
  • Practice on the water fishing techniques if possible.  Especially mending and dead drifting if trout are your targeted species.
  • Practice spotting fish.  Sometimes when you are off the water for awhile, seeing fish underwater can be  a challenge.  In order to spot them faster, grab your polarized glasses, head to some clear water in your area, and go fish hunting!  Bring a rod as well so you can practice sight casting!
  • Practice Stealth!  There are times that fish will become startled by loud wading, un-natural movement, shadows, etc.  In order to make sure that you get the most out of your guided trip, practice being stealthy in your approach.  Things to remember:  Stay low, wade softly, avoid quick movements, don’t cast your shadow on a fish, wear natural colored clothing.

Pre-Trip Packing List

  • Valid Texas Fishing License
  • Fly Rod and Reel
  • Polarized Glasses
  • Wading Boots
  • Waders (cooler months)
  • Wet Wading Socks (warmer months)
  • Sunscreen
  • Hat or Cap for sun protection