With extensive knowledge about the best public waters and exclusive access to numerous private fisheries, our professional guides can provide the fishing experience you want. And no matter how experienced an angler you are, our expert fly instructors can help you improve your fishing, tying and casting techniques.
 

The Reel Life provides professional guide services on hundreds of miles of public water and on several private fisheries to which we hold exclusive fishing rights. Whether you want to fish a small mountain creek or lake, a larger stream for larger fish, or simply a private stretch of water without competition from other anglers, The Reel Life will deliver the angling experience you most desire.

The goal of The Reel Life's guiding program is for our clients to come away from their trips as improved anglers. Our talented guides possess an intimate knowledge of every watershed in Northern New Mexico. They know the seasons and the hatches. They know where the big fish live and the techniques required to catch them. Plus, all guides are hired based on their ability to teach, to clearly impart their knowledge in a personable and low-pressure fashion to novices and experts alike. Each of our guides is first aid and CPR certified.

Clients will need a valid New Mexico state fishing license and some personal items for their own comfort. We recommend breathable, non-cotton clothing (including socks) for maximum comfort in our often unpredictable climate. Raingear, sunscreen, a long-sleeved fishing shirt and polarized sunglasses will go a long way towards making your guided trip a comfortable one.

 
 

Private Waters

The Reel Life holds leases to several ranches with excellent fishing opportunities for anglers wanting to escape the crowds often encountered on public streams. We go to great lengths to maintain fish populations by stocking these waters and by improving the habitat to develop wild trout populations. An additional landowner fee applies for access to private water, but we believe the quality of the fishing (more numerous and larger fish) and the spectacular, untrammeled scenery make our private trips well worth the price. For more information, contact us today.

Fly Tying Classes

The Reel Life offers group or private classes for all skill levels throughout the year. We provide tools, materials and expert instruction for up to six tiers per class. We can also accommodate fly pattern or technique requests by more experienced tiers.

$30.00 per student
Contact us today to sign up!

Private Introduction to Fly Fishing

The mysteries of fly fishing are explained in this day-long class. We will cover equipment selection and care, trout foods and their imitations, knots, presenting flies to trout and hooking, landing and releasing fish. This class is great for beginners or for those wanting a structured review of basic concepts. This class is tailored to making each student a more independent fly fisher.

$290 for one student, $320 for two students
Contact us today to sign up!

Private Fly Casting

Whether you need an introduction or just a tune-up, we can help. Increase casting distance and accuracy and learn trick casts for challenging presentations.

$40.00 per student
Contact us today to sign up!

To find out when classes are offered and to schedule your time, please click here to stop by the store, e-mail us or give us a call today.

 
 
Our Guides
Jerry Burton

Jerry Burton

Years Fly Fishing: 52

Years Guiding: 11

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Jeff Croy

Jeff Croy

Years Fly Fishing: 32

Years Guiding: 5

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Karen Denison

Karen Denison

Years Fly Fishing: 21 (42 years total)

Years Guiding: 12

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Tim Herrara

Tim Herrera

Years Fly Fishing: 12

Years Guiding: 4

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Ed Miller

Ed Miller

Years Fly Fishing: 12

Years Guiding: 4

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Toner Mitchell

Toner Mitchell

Years Fly Fishing: 34

Years Guiding: 12

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Our Guides

Thanks once again for the guided trip on Cow Creek Ranch. My guide was Jake and he was by far one of the best guides I have fished with in a long time. The difference between your shop and others in the area is the people. Share the information with your employees and let them know they make the difference. I have attached a picture of a nice 20" plus Rainbow that was landed, one of many that was caught that day.

Michael Scott
Nashville TN.