Half-Day Fly Fishing with Spencer & Ziafly
Private Trip
Flats/Shallows Fishing
Halfday flats fishing adventure with expert guide Spencer SeimAll flies, leaders, and tippets provided by ZiaflySmall group experience accommodating up to three guests maximum
Looking for a solid half-day on the water without the full commitment of an all-day trip? Spencer Seim and the Ziafly crew have you covered. This isn't some cookie-cutter charter – you're getting a passionate fly fishing guide who knows these waters inside and out, plus all the terminal tackle you need to get into fish. Perfect for families wanting to introduce kids to the sport, friends looking to squeeze in some fishing between other plans, or anyone who wants to test the waters before booking a longer adventure.
Spencer brings the kind of energy that makes even slow fishing days feel worthwhile. As your guide, he's not just there to net your fish – he's genuinely stoked about fly fishing and it shows. You'll spend your half-day learning proper casting techniques, reading water, and understanding why trout behave the way they do. The beauty of this setup is that Ziafly handles all the flies, leaders, and tippets, so you're not stuck guessing what's working or burning through your own fly box. Just remember to grab your fishing license beforehand – that's the one thing they can't provide. With space for up to three anglers, this trip works great for small groups who want personalized attention rather than getting lost in a crowd.
Spencer's approach focuses on matching the hatch and reading conditions as they change throughout your time on the water. Since Ziafly provides all the flies, you'll get access to proven local patterns without having to stock up beforehand. Expect to work with dry flies during active surface feeding, nymphs when fish are holding deep, and streamers if conditions call for more aggressive presentations. The leader and tippet selection gets dialed in based on water clarity, fish behavior, and the specific flies being used. Spencer's strength lies in teaching you not just how to cast these setups, but when and where to use them. Half-day trips move at a nice pace – there's enough time to try different techniques without feeling rushed, but you'll stay engaged and active throughout the experience.
Rainbow Trout are the bread and butter of many fly fishing adventures, and for good reason. These fish hit flies with serious aggression and put up fights that'll test your drag system. Rainbows in these waters typically range from 12 to 18 inches, with the occasional bruiser pushing into the 20-plus category. They're most active during cooler parts of the day – early morning and evening – but don't sleep on midday action when mayflies or caddis are coming off the water. What makes rainbows special is their willingness to chase streamers and their acrobatic jumps when hooked. Spencer knows where they hold during different seasons and water conditions.
Cutthroat Trout bring their own personality to the mix. These native beauties are often more selective than rainbows, making them a favorite target for anglers who enjoy the chess match of fly selection and presentation. Cutthroats have those distinctive red slashes under their jaws that make them instantly recognizable, and they typically run a bit larger than the average rainbow. They love structure – undercut banks, fallen trees, and deeper pools where they can ambush prey. The reward for figuring out cutthroats is a fish that fights differently than rainbows – more bulldogging runs and less jumping, but with the kind of power that reminds you why you fell in love with fly fishing in the first place.
Half-day trips with Spencer and Ziafly hit that sweet spot between getting a real fishing experience and fitting into a busy schedule. You're learning from a guide who genuinely loves what he does, targeting quality trout species, and getting all the flies and terminal tackle included in the deal. The three-angler limit keeps things personal and ensures everyone gets hands-on instruction. Whether you're introducing family members to fly fishing, brushing up on techniques, or just want to get out on the water without committing to a full day, this trip delivers exactly what it promises. Don't forget that fishing license – everything else is handled. Ready to get your line wet with one of the area's top-rated guides?
Oncorhynchus ClarkiiNamed for those distinctive red slashes under their jaw, cutthroat are true natives that make any day on the water memorable. Size varies wildly - stream fish might be 8-10 inches while lake dwellers can hit 17 pounds. They stick to cold, clear water with rocky bottoms and love hiding under brush piles and beaver dams. Spring through fall offers the best action when water temps are right. What sets them apart is their willingness to take flies - they're less spooky than other trout. The meat is sweet and flaky, perfect for shore lunch. Pro tip: start with a gold bead prince nymph or small rooster tail spinner. They're suckers for anything that looks like the local bug life.
Oncorhynchus MykissThese beauties are what fly fishing dreams are made of. Rainbows typically run 2-8 pounds and 8-24 inches, with that signature pink stripe making them easy to spot. They love cold, clean water with good current - look for them near gravelly shorelines and undercut banks. Best fishing happens at dawn and dusk when they're actively feeding on insects. What makes them special? They fight like crazy, jumping and running when hooked. The pink flesh tastes amazing grilled with herbs too. Spencer's go-to tip: match whatever bugs are hatching that day, but when in doubt, a gold bead prince nymph drifted naturally near the bottom rarely lets you down.
Taos, NM