Scott Lee Thompson

It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to Scott, a beloved fly-fishing guide, film maker, comedian, entrepreneur, all-state wrestler, who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 57. A true steward of Colorado’s rivers and wild places, Scott spent a lifetime wading through clear mountain streams, sharing his passion for fly fishing with all who were lucky enough to know him.

Born with a love for the outdoors, Scott found his calling in the art of fly fishing, turning his passion into a career that spanned decades. Whether guiding on the Eagle, the Colorado, or the South Platte, his patience, skill, and deep knowledge of the rivers made him a legend among anglers. He had an uncanny ability to read the water, knowing just where the trout would rise, and an even greater gift for teaching others how to find that same magic.

Beyond Colorado’s waters, Scott had a deep love for the salt flats of Belize, where he spent countless days chasing the elusive permit. The challenge of sight-casting to these wary fish became one of his greatest joys, and he often said that nothing compared to the heart-stopping thrill of watching a permit take the fly. His adventures in Belize were the stuff of legend, filled with stories of near misses, triumphant catches, and the camaraderie of fellow anglers who shared his passion for the chase.

For Scott, fly fishing was more than a sport—it was a form of healing. He was a firm believer in the power of the river to quiet the mind and soothe the soul, especially for those struggling with PTSD and life’s hardships. With his faithful dog George by his side, he often spoke about how the rhythmic motion of casting, the deep focus required to tie a perfect fly, and the peaceful solitude of the water provided a kind of therapy that no words could replicate. Through guiding, he helped countless people find solace on the river, offering them not just a lesson in fishing but a moment of peace, a breath of fresh air, and a reminder that nature has a way of mending even the deepest wounds.

But Scott wasn’t just at home on the water—he was equally comfortable under the bright lights of the stage, where his quick wit and boundless energy made him a standout in the world of improv comedy. Whether performing with the Comedy Sportz group, or making friends laugh around a campfire, he had a way of turning any moment into something unforgettable. His humor was as sharp as his fly-casting, his timing impeccable, and his ability to turn life’s mishaps into comedy was a gift that brought joy to so many.

More than just a guide and a performer, Scott was a storyteller, a conservationist, and a friend to all who stepped into his drift boat or sat in the audience. His easy laugh and steady hand made even the slowest fishing days feel like an adventure. He believed that fishing and comedy were about more than the catch or the punchline—they were about the connection, the camaraderie, and the stories shared along the way.

Scott is preceded in death by his mother Barbara Thompson and sister Jill Thompson. He leaves behind his father Joe, brother Michael,sister in law Sarah, nephew Josh, niece Jessica,  countless friends, and the many clients and audiences who became like family over the years. His legacy lives on in every cast taught, every joke told, and every person he inspired to embrace the unexpected, whether on stage or on the water.

In honor of Scott, a celebration of life will be held at Heritage Eagle Bend clubhouse on Sunday March 30th at 4:00 pm. Friends, fellow anglers, and comedy lovers alike are invited to share their stories, laughter, and maybe even cast a line in his memory. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Healing Waters..

Tight lines, endless laughter, and clear waters, Scott—may the rivers of eternity, the flats of Belize, and the grand stage beyond treat you well.

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