Rowing Certification
This intensive five-day course is for those individuals who aspire to become a fly-fishing raft or drift boat guide. Although many people do take our school if they have or are considering purchasing a Drift boat or raft with no intention of becoming a guide. We put an emphasis on safety and setting up your boat for you.
The course will provide you with the hours and training needed to be a state-certified float guide in Colorado. Per Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations to earn your minimum qualifications you will spend a minimum of 50 hours in a boat, with a certified instructor. Students will learn all aspects of boating safety and oarsmanship. We put 2 students and an instructor per boat, so to maximize each student’s time on the sticks. Classroom and field training will begin each day at 8:00 a.m. and finish around 6:00 p.m. No prior rafting experience is needed and no special equipment is required. Instructors will have a cooler and class 3 PFDs.
Rivers floated in the course are the Colorado, Roaring Fork, and Eagle Rivers. Each river provides a unique opportunity to test your skills and to learn the many aspects of rowing for fishermen.
Minimum qualification river log
Colorado Certified Guide/Rowing School Instructors
Our rowing school will get you the row certification required to be a float guide on Colorado rivers. More importantly, it will teach you the skills required to row for fly fishermen casting and fishing out of a boat. Several veteran guides, including Kelley Bobye, Dan Houck, Kip Wolcott and John Byron are longtime instructors.
2026 ROWING SCHOOL DATES: MAY 17-21 2026
We are currently taking registration for 2026 Guide and Row schools. To register please call 970-845-8090
How Much Does a Rowing Certification Cost?
COST: $1200.00
Private Rowing Instruction
Fly Fishing Outfitters is pleased to offer private rowing instruction. This course is tailored to the individual who is looking to become a more competent oarsman. This class does NOT CERTIFY the student to row a commercial trip.
Cost: $350.00 per day
*Payment is required in advance to reserve a spot in either school. Each year the schools fill up fast, so booking a spot early is advised. The tuition fee is for the school only and does not include lodging or meals. We have arranged a special rate at the Comfort Inn in Avon for those students who need lodging. Evening fishing spots are close by to practice what you learn during the day.
