Mark “Pops” Miller
Mark “Pops” Miller is the heart of Let It Fly—a true Pagosa Springs original with decades of time on local water and behind the counter helping anglers fish better. Pops and his sweetie, Sarah Etta, own and operate the shop together, keeping it family-run, friendly, and focused on real customer service.
Built in Pagosa Since 1997
Let It Fly started back in 1993 up on Putt Hill, built on Pops’ love for fly fishing and a simple mission: give people the right gear, the right flies, and the right advice for the day they’re about to have. Over the years, the shop became a local staple—where beginners could learn without feeling talked down to, and experienced anglers could get dialed fast.
The Move Downtown
In 2010, Pops moved Let It Fly to its current home on Highway 160, across from Kip’s Grill—a spot that made the shop easier to find, easier to visit, and even more connected to the community. Since moving here, Pops took it a step further and purchased the real estate, turning Let It Fly into a true downtown fixture.
Today, Pops lives full-time above the shop in this historic home in downtown Pagosa Springs—so when we say this place is local, we mean it in the most literal way possible.
A Fly Shop With No Ego
Step into Let It Fly and you’ll feel it: Pops keeps the vibe welcoming. From beginner to expert, he’s the same with everyone—patient, honest, and focused on getting you what you actually need. Need help building a fly box, choosing the right leader setup, or figuring out where to start? Pops will break it down and get you confident quickly.
The Pops Bugger
Pops is also a dedicated fly tyer, and his patterns are a big part of what makes Let It Fly different. One standout is the Pops Bugger—a fly Pops developed and refined over years of fishing locally. It earned such a strong reputation that Umpqua picked up the pattern and now sells the Pops Bugger exclusively. That’s a rare kind of validation, and it speaks to what Pops cares about most: patterns that simply work.
Portfolio Of Work
Beyond the Pops Bugger, Pops has a rotating portfolio of custom-tied flies built from years on local water and refined through real-world fishing. Some of these flies are available in the shop, while others have been retired over time. That said, if there’s a particular pattern you love, Pops may be willing to tie up a dozen as a special request.
Ask in the shop or call to inquire about custom tying.
Flashback Pheasant Tail Hot Bead
Pops Wired Damsel Nymph
Royal Prince Jeremy Barela
Purple Haze
Stillwater Damsel Olive
Rockworm
Pops Bugger Cone Head Rubber Leg Black Olive
Pops Bugger Black Olive
Pops Bunny Egg Sucking Leech
Pops Bunny Olive
Pops Bugger Grizzly Pearl
Prince Nymph Hot Bead
Popsicle
Q.D. Caddis Larva Tung Bead
Pops Bugger Olive Chartreuse
Nappy Headed Ho Cone Head - P.J DuFour
Pops Bugger Black
Hare Copper Tung Bead
Nimmfski Cranefly Tung Bead
Pops Biot Stone Golden
Nimmfski Golden Brown
Pops Bugger Baby Brown
Pops Bugger Cone Head Rubber Leg Brown Orange
Pops Biot Stone Bronze
Pops Bugger Brown Orange
Caddis Larva Fox Squirrel Tung Bead
Doggystyle
Blob
Ice Green Caddis Larva Tung Bead
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Fly Boxes & Tools
The boxes, nippers, forceps, and essentials you’ll use every day. Simple upgrades that make everything easier.
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Packs, Bags & Accessories
Keep your gear organized and within reach on the river. Smart storage for day trips and travel kits.
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Waders & Boots
Comfortable, durable, and made for traction where it matters. Fit help included—because bad waders ruin good days.
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Rods & Reels
Dependable setups for every skill level and budget. We’ll help you match the right combo to the water you’re fishing.
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Flies & Terminal Tackle
Proven local patterns and the rigging essentials that just work. Built for quick stops before you hit the water.
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Lines, Leaders & Tippet
The fine-tuning that makes the difference. Get the right line, taper, and strength for clean presentations.
