What to Bring on Your Sky Island Adventure

You've booked the trip. Now the real question: what do you put in the bag?

Good news. Packing for a guided day with us is simple. We bring the fishing gear, the flies, and the lunch. You bring yourself, dressed for the mountains. This post covers what to pack, why it matters, and what you can leave at home.

Want the short version? Download the one-page packing list and tape it to the fridge.

What to bring

Polarized sunglasses

If you only remember one thing, make it this one. Polarized lenses cut the glare on the surface of the water so you can see the fish. Without them, a creek is a mirror. With them, it's a window.

Spotting fish through the glare is half the game, and it's a lot more fun when you can see what you're casting to.

A rain jacket

Even if the forecast says clear skies. It's the mountains, and things change fast. A sunny morning can turn into a passing shower by lunch. A light rain jacket weighs almost nothing in your pack and makes a big difference when you need it.

Warm base layers

We recommend wool. Even in spring and fall, temperatures can dip, and a warm base layer is the easiest way to stay comfortable from the cold early hours to the warm afternoon. Layers you can add or take off beat one big coat every time.

Long pants, all year

Yes, even in summer. Long pants protect your legs from the sun and from the occasional bit of underbrush on the way to the water.

One more note on fabric: we highly encourage you to skip cotton in winter, spring, and fall. Cotton holds water and keeps you cold when it gets wet. Stick with wool or synthetic fabrics those times of year. They dry faster and keep you warmer.

A hat

A hat keeps the sun off your face and neck all day. Pick one you don't mind wearing for hours.

Sunscreen

We usually keep some on hand, so you won't be stuck. If you have a brand you prefer, feel free to bring it.

Comfortable walking shoes or boots

Choose a pair you don't mind getting a little wet and muddy. We don't need to wade, so you won't need waders. But banks can be muddy even when we never step in the water, and you'll be on your feet and walking along the creek for much of the day.

Any daily or emergency medications

If you take something every day, or might need something in an emergency, bring it with you. Keep it in a small bag you can reach easily.

One thing that isn't gear: your fishing license

Everyone who fishes needs a current New Mexico fishing license, and most trips also need a habitat stamp. You can get both online. We explain what you need in our FAQ. If you're not sure which ones apply to your trip, ask us when you book.

Optional extras

Snacks and drinks, if you want them

We'll have snacks, lunch on full-day trips, a selection of non-alcoholic beverages, and plenty of water. But if you have dietary restrictions, you're a picky eater, or there's a specific product or brand you love, bring it along.

Your own fly gear

Already own a fly rod? Bring it. We recommend a 3 to 5 weight rod, 8 to 9 feet long, with a weight-forward floating line. That's a great match for the water we fish.

Don't have one? Don't sweat it. We have plenty of rods and other gear on hand.

What we've got covered

• Rods and other fishing gear
• Flies, tippet, and everything that goes on the end of the line
• Lunch on full-day trips, plus snacks
• A selection of non-alcoholic beverages
• Plenty of water
• Sunscreen, in case you forget yours

Don't worry about buying flies or tippet before you come. That's our job.

A quick look at the seasons

• Spring and fall: Temperatures can dip, so pack your wool base layers. Skip the cotton.
• Winter: Same plan. Warm wool base layers, and nothing cotton.
• Summer: Sun is the main event. Long pants, a hat, sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses do the heavy lifting.
• All year: Rain jacket, long pants, and sunglasses.

Still have questions?

If you're wondering about something that isn't on this list, just ask. Call or text us at (575) 513-7611 or email skyislandadv@gmail.com, and we'll help you sort it out before you arrive.

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Haven't booked yet? We teach fly fishing to beginners and guide trips in the Sacramento Mountains of New Mexico. Pick a date and book your trip. Bring your layers. We'll bring the rest.