Colorado Adventure II - Update 3

Hello families!

The past few days have been packed with adventure, great fishing, and plenty of memorable moments! After arriving at our campsite at Pumphouse Campground along the Colorado River, everyone settled in and helped make tacos for dinner. Once the sun began to set and temperatures cooled off, we geared up for an evening of fishing right around camp. The Colorado River gave us a beautiful backdrop for our first night, and the group stayed out late enjoying the peaceful evening — we fished until dark with hopes of landing a trophy-sized fish.

The next morning came early as we loaded up for our float trip with Cutthroat Anglers. It was an incredible opportunity for campers to experience one of Colorado's premier trout fisheries from drift boats while learning from experienced guides. Every boat had a different story to tell by the end of the day. Some anglers had steady action throughout the float, while others had to work a little harder for their fish. The highlight of the day was an incredible 26-inch rainbow trout that one lucky camper landed, a fish that will certainly be remembered for years to come! It was exciting for everyone to celebrate their days back at camp.

After returning to camp, everyone cooled off with a swim before breaking out the frisbee around the campsite. We ate big chicken quesadillas for dinner, and as always, plenty of laughs were shared around the picnic tables while everyone relived the day's best fishing stories.

That evening, we had to make a small adjustment to our plans due to nearby wildfire activity. Out of an abundance of caution, we relocated the group to Silverthorne. Throughout the process, the group moved quickly and packed their gear like seasoned campers. The boys handled the change with great attitudes and flexibility. 

This morning, we started the day by giving back to the places we love through a service project at Lake Dillon. Campers spent the morning helping clean up trash along the shoreline, taking pride in leaving Colorado's beautiful outdoors better than we found it. Afterward, we headed to the Silverthorne Recreation Center where everyone enjoyed well-earned showers, some time in the pool, and the chance to relax after several busy days outside.

Tonight we'll gather for our banquet dinner, where we'll look back on the week's adventures, celebrate everyone's accomplishments, and share favorite memories from the trip. From late-night fishing on the Colorado River to an unforgettable 26-inch rainbow, beautiful mountain scenery, new friendships, and giving back through conservation, this has been a week full of experiences these campers will remember for a long time.

We can't wait for you to get to reunite with your kids and get hear the stories that each one will bring home!

Best,
Jack, Kitchel, Max, and the crew.

Lillard Fly Fishing Expeditions was started in 2010 as a graduate thesis for my Master's Degree in Environmental Conservation Education at NYU. The operating premise was simple - by coupling amazing wilderness fly fishing camps for teens with environmental education and service learning we can help inspire future generations of fly fishing conservationists. We have been growing our unique list of trips and experiences ever since.

When it comes to choosing a summer program for your teen the options are endless. For the teen who loves to fish, be outside, and has a strong sense of adventure we have made the choice easy. We are the leader in teen fly fishing adventures and are dedicated to providing the best backcountry fly fishing experience with opportunities for teens to engage in leadership training, community service, and backcountry camping.

Sincerely,

Will Lillard signature

Will Lillard, Founder/Director/Guide

Contact Us

[email protected]

Lillard Fly Fishing Expeditions
2540 King Road
Pisgah Forest, NC 28768

(828) 577-8204