The kids are already getting giddy in anticipation of hitting the slopes at Vail Colorado next month. We have a week booked in Vail Village, and I have planned activities for all of us. Benjamin and Alex are enrolled in one of the area’s excellent novice ski schools, my wife is pleased to have a day to herself to wander the many shops and boutiques in the village, and I … have a full day set aside for some winter fly fishing!

Winter is an amazing time of the year for fly fishing, and there are many stretches of water where trout are just waiting to take a line. I have used them before, but this will be my first winter guided fly fishing excursion with Minturn Anglers. They have a shop conveniently located in Vail, so everything should work out smoothly. When I talked to staff to reserve a guide and day, they were pleasantly reassuring that I could look forward to a memorable and scenic experience and expect excellent fly fishing.

The professional guides from Minturn Anglers are intimately familiar with all the rivers and streams around Vail, and know where to go for the best fishing at any given time. They can also equip me with whatever I need to make my fly fishing excursion comfortable, fun and successful. As we’re on a family vacation and already loaded up with luggage, that’s an important bonus.

My previous experience with Minturn guides makes me anticipate friendly advice and coaching when I need it. I know I’ll end the day with a little more knowledge and improved fly fishing technique. My guide always lands us in perfect spots where rainbows, cutthroat, browns or brook trout are just waiting for us to reel them in.

Winter may in fact be the best time to fly fish Vail waters. The crowds will be in lift lines in colder weather some 4,000 feet above me, while I enjoy fly fishing in peaceful waters framed by a winter white backdrop. Thinking about this, I realize that the kids are not the only ones getting excited about our upcoming Vail adventure.