Wade Guiding
What It Is & What We Do
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​​Wade guiding is fly fishing done on foot — walking the stream, reading the water, and approaching trout with intention. It allows anglers to slow down, connect with the environment, and experience fly fishing in its most authentic form.
At First Watch Fly Co., our mission is to guide with purpose, patience, and respect for the water. Every trip is built around skill development, conservation, and creating a meaningful outdoor experience — whether you are brand new to fly fishing or refining advanced techniques.
We guide cold-water trout streams throughout the Iowa Driftless region — stretching from the Cedar Rapids area north to the Minnesota and Wisconsin borders. The heart of Iowa trout country lies in northeast Iowa, including areas around Manchester, Bellevue, and toward Decorah.
While Decorah is well known for its trout waters, you do not have to travel there to experience an exceptional day on the stream. Quality trout water exists throughout the region, and trips are selected based on current conditions, access, and your specific goals.
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Half Day Wade Trip
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​​Our half day trips are ideal for anglers who want focused, efficient time on the water. Trips run approximately four hours and are tailored to your experience level and objectives.
Instruction and guiding are blended naturally into the day. We may cover casting fundamentals, reading water, presentation, trout behavior, entomology, and river safety depending on your needs.
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Ideal for:
• Beginners
• Skill refreshers
• Targeted technique work
• Anglers with limited time
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Full Day Wade Trip​
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A full day offers a deeper, more immersive experience. With six to eight hours on the water, we can explore multiple sections of stream, adjust tactics as conditions change, and build confidence throughout the day.
Lessons are seamlessly integrated into the experience — meaning you are not just fishing, you are learning why techniques work and how to apply them independently in the future.
If requested, lunch is included with full day trips.
Non-alcoholic beverages and bottled water are provided.
Ideal for:
• Anglers wanting to grow their skillset
• Guests seeking a complete Driftless experience
• Those who want to slow down and fully engage in the day
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If we are fortunate and conditions align, a full day may even conclude with evening dry fly opportunities during active hatches — one of the most rewarding experiences in trout fishing.
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What’s Included
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• Professional guided wade experience
• Flexible start times (confirmed upon booking)
• Pre-trip consultation to discuss your goals
• Fly rods, reels, and lines provided
• Flies, tippet, and terminal tackle provided
• Non-alcoholic beverages and water
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You are always welcome to bring your own fly gear if preferred. After booking, you will receive a confirmation outlining meeting location, start time, gear recommendations, and a discussion of your personal goals to ensure the trip is customized specifically to you.
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