Bettie Course: Stream Ecology and Fly-Fishing

Are you ready to get your feet wet?

This two-day course begins with an in-the-field introduction to stream ecology, followed by an afternoon introduction to fly-fishing techniques. The goal of Day One is to provide a holistic understanding of waterways, where to find fish, and the essential gear and techniques to get started. On Day Two, we'll spend the day exploring different fly-fishing spots around Rocky Mountain National Park, with lots of time to practice and get in-the-moment coaching and guidance to develop your skills. This course is taught by Sarah of Rambling Ruby Rose, a local fly-fishing guide and longtime outdoor educator.

Who: This Bettie Course is offered to women ages 16 and up. Participants below the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult participant.

When: Saturday, August 22, 2026 from 9:00am to 3:00pm and Sunday, August 23, 2026 from 7:00am to 1:00pm

Where: We will meet at the Estes Park Visitor Center at 500 Big Thompson Ave in downtown Estes Park, and travel together to various locations within Rocky Mountain National Park in Conservancy vehicles.

Program Level: Moderate – These programs are most appropriate for those with some hiking experience. Expect to travel 3 to 6 miles over the course of the program and to be on your feet for several hours at a time. Participants should be comfortable hiking off trail or on unmaintained trails, and should be able to cross a stream unassisted. Transportation will be in a 15-passenger van with bench seats and a narrow aisle that requires stepping up to enter. Prior experience hiking or walking above 8,000 feet is recommended.

What to Bring:

• Our 10 Essentials for Field Courses is a good place to start!
• Bag lunch each day.
• Where the bugs are, the fish are. Be prepared to deal with biting insects.
• We will be in and around the water both days. Wear shoes that you don't mind getting wet.
• All fishing gear will be provided and gear rental is included in your registration fees. If you have your own gear, you're welcome to bring and use that.

All participants over age 16 must have a valid Colorado State Fishing License to participate. Please purchase your license before the course!

You can purchase a license online from CO Parks & Wildlife here: CO Parks & Wildlife Licenses

Licenses can also be purchased in person from the following local Estes Park businesses:

• Estes Angler LLC
• Estes Park Mountain Shop
• Kirk's Mountain Adventures
• Lake Estes Marina

All fly-fishing gear will be supplied. Participants are also welcome to bring their own gear.

This course is all in-person in Estes Park, CO.

Questions? Contact us at [email protected].

These courses are offered through Rocky Mountain Conservancy, where scholarships are provided through the Magnificent Mountain Women Scholarship Fund. For more information about scholarships, please submit an application by completing the form here:

Please note that Bettie Courses are not eligible for member discounts.

Bettie Courses are inspired by the life and work of Beatrice “Bettie” Willard, who was a foundational instructor at the Rocky Mountain Conservancy Field Institute. Her research on alpine tundra ecology has been instrumental to mountain ecology, and her advocacy all throughout the state of Colorado has left a legacy for all who value land stewardship and conservation. Rocky Mountain Conservancy's Bettie Courses focus on accessible programs that introduce women to the outdoors through a variety of programs and topics. Courses emphasize science, ecology, and building the outdoor skills and confidence needed to explore and defend wild places.

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Host or Publisher Rocky Mountain Conservancy Education Team