Best Fly Shops in Denver

Denver, Colorado, isn’t just a gateway to the Rockies—it’s one of the most dynamic fly fishing hubs in the country. Within the Mile High City and just beyond, you’ll find some of the finest fly shops in the West. These stores aren’t just retail spaces; they’re community centers for anglers, classrooms for beginners, and the front doors to some of Colorado’s most legendary rivers. Whether you’re looking for your first fly rod or want insider tips before heading to the South Platte, here are five shops that deserve a spot on your list.

1. Ascent Fly Fishing (Denver)

Ascent Fly Fishing is one of the most unique fly shops in Colorado. Founded by an aquatic biologist, the shop takes a science-driven approach to fly fishing. Instead of just handing you a fly box, they teach you how to think like a fish. Their staff uses entomology (the study of insects) to match flies to the specific bugs hatching on local rivers, which can be a game-changer for new and experienced anglers alike.

In addition to a wide selection of gear, Ascent offers rentals, guided trips, and classes that help you sharpen your skills. Their community-first approach makes them a favorite for anglers who want to learn the “why” behind successful fly fishing. For anyone serious about improving their time on the water, Ascent is a must-visit.

2. Anglers All (Littleton & Denver)

Anglers All has been serving the fly fishing community since 1954, making it one of the longest-running shops in Colorado. Known for its welcoming vibe, Anglers All is the type of place where a first-time customer can walk in with no knowledge of fly fishing and leave with confidence to hit the river. Their shelves are stocked with everything from beginner-friendly kits to the latest rods and reels from top brands.

The shop also invests heavily in its community. They host casting clinics, fly tying nights, and conservation events that connect anglers of all skill levels. Their guide staff is well respected across the state, and their knowledge of rivers like the South Platte, Arkansas, and Colorado is unmatched. If you’re looking for both expertise and a sense of belonging, Anglers All should be on your list.

3. Front Range Anglers (Boulder)

Just a short drive from Denver, Front Range Anglers in Boulder is worth every mile. With one of the largest fly selections in Colorado, this shop is a treasure chest for anglers who obsess over having the perfect fly for every hatch. Their team specializes in trips across Rocky Mountain National Park, guiding anglers to alpine lakes and hidden streams, as well as arranging travel to saltwater destinations around the globe.

Education is another cornerstone of the shop. From beginner bootcamps to advanced casting lessons, Front Range Anglers ensures that customers don’t just buy gear—they learn to use it effectively. The staff’s enthusiasm for teaching creates an inviting environment where anglers can continually grow their skills.

4. Minturn Anglers (Lone Tree)

Minturn Anglers has carved out a strong reputation with three locations across Colorado, and their Denver-area shop in Lone Tree is a hub for anglers in the metro. Stocked with rods, reels, apparel, and flies for trout, carp, and even saltwater fishing, Minturn is versatile in both its offerings and its expertise.

One of the shop’s biggest draws is its guide service. From float trips on the Eagle River to walk-and-wade days on the South Platte, their guides cover waters both iconic and lesser known. They also make a point of educating their clients, offering fly tying classes, fishing reports, and casting lessons to build a foundation that lasts beyond a single trip.

5. Blue Quill Angler (Evergreen)

Located in Evergreen, just west of Denver, Blue Quill Angler is more than a fly shop—it’s a cornerstone of Colorado’s fly fishing culture. Founded by legendary guide and author Pat Dorsey, the shop is staffed by some of the most respected guides in the country. Their reputation for excellence has been built over decades, making them a destination for serious anglers.

What sets Blue Quill apart is their dual focus on education and conservation. Their staff regularly hosts clinics and presentations, teaching anglers not just how to fish but how to protect Colorado’s fragile watersheds. Shopping here supports a business that’s deeply invested in the sport’s future, and their guide service is widely regarded as one of the best in the West.

Final Cast 🎣

Denver’s fly fishing scene is alive and thriving, with shops that do far more than sell gear. These stores educate, guide, and build community—all while connecting anglers to Colorado’s incredible waters. Whether you’re chasing trout in a mountain stream or looking to improve your cast, the shops above are trusted allies that will set you up for success.

✨ Pro Tip: Many of these shops are also available through GuideTime, making it easy to book guided trips directly with seasoned professionals who know the waters best.