May 3, 2026 Location: Edwards, CO
Group: Colorado Women Fly Fishers Club
Conditions
- Weather: Warm day overall, heavy wind picked up in the afternoon
- Water: Fish were rising but feeding in windows – you had to be there when they turned on
- Pressure: Moderate weekend traffic, but fish were still willing
The Day On The Water
Dave volunteered his time to guide the Colorado Women Fly Fishers Club, who were in town for the weekend, fishing the area. The group fished hard, and it paid off.
What Worked
- Blue Winged Olives: Consistent producers, especially during hatch windows
- Caddis Emergers: Fish keyed on them subsurface before the wind kicked up
- Dry Flies: Got a few eats on top – when fish were up, they’d commit if the drift was right
Tactics That Paid Off: The women moved constantly and weren’t afraid to switch flies. That made the difference with fish that were picky in the wind. Covering water and adjusting to what the river gave them kept rods bent all day.
Standout Notes
20+ women had spent the day before in a women’s class with Vail Valley Anglers, and it showed. They fished great – solid casts, good mends, and smart river reading. The day before’s instruction translated right to the water.
Beyond the fishing, it was a win for the valley. The group booked hotels, ate local, and spent money in town. Everyone loved the Eagle River around Vail and Beaver Creek and they’re already talking about coming back.
Bottom Line
Fun day with a great organization. Wind made it tough, but the fish cooperated for anglers who stayed mobile and matched the hatch. BWO and caddis emerger patterns should stay in your box this week if we get similar conditions.
Thanks to Dave for donating his time, and to Colorado Women Fly Fishers Club for fishing hard and supporting the valley. Tight lines!
