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Roaring Fork Fishing Guide Alliance makes regional enhancements

A tractor helps lay down 42 tons of road base at Iron Bridge in efforts to make it more accesible for fishing guides throughout the Roaring Fork Valley.
Roaring Fork Fishing Guide Alliance/Courtesy

Since its formation in 2014, the Roaring Fork Fishing Guide Alliance (RFFGA) has been the driving force for guides and anglers alike in the Roaring Fork region, pledging dedication to the protection and conservation of local fisheries.

In line with their mission, the RFFGA’s recent initiatives have brought significant enhancements to the local fishing community. 

The organization has spearheaded multiple projects aimed at improving accessibility and safety for all users. This includes the recently installed staging signs and parking pavers at the Carbondale boat ramp. 



In a collaborative effort, around 30 volunteers from the RFFGA, Town of Carbondale, Roaring Fork Conservancy and Colorado Parks and Wildlife participated in clearing brush and creating additional spots for boats to anchor along the bank.

Another landmark project by the alliance was carried out at Iron Bridge, where they combined efforts with the Roaring Fork Fishing Club to lay 42 tons of road base. This intervention was crucial to cover large, sharp rocks, which were causing damage to equipment and hindering activities at the ramp.



“We’d like to continue to grow regionally and try to get people from this whole region to come out and join us,” RFFGA President and Founder Kyle Holt said.

Highlighting the Iron Bridge initiative, Holt described the state of the area post-runoff as a challenge. 

“After the runoff, that area was almost like an impassable state with giant boulders sticking up everywhere, we figured we had to do something,” he said.

Though Colorado Parks and Wildlife could not provide funding for these projects, the RFFGA took the initiative with their consent. Beyond these activities, the alliance has also initiated the improvement of the Silt boat ramp on the Colorado River.

The RFFGA has grown, both in terms of its projects and its stature. Recently, the alliance achieved a significant milestone, obtaining 501C3 non-profit status. This development, according to Holt, will enable the organization to garner more resources for river conservation and further improvements.

Reflecting on the essence of the RFFGA’s mission, Holt underscored the passion of the local angling community. 

“There are a lot of anglers and guides in the valley who really care about protecting our waters and this great place that we have the opportunity to call home,” Holt said. “We invite everyone to come check us out if interested.”

Currently boasting over 100 members, the RFFGA welcomes new members. Guides can join for $20 annually, associate memberships stand at $25 per year and outfitters can be part of the alliance for $250 yearly.

For more details or to explore membership options, interested parties can visit the RFFGA’s  Facebook page.


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