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There is no single best time to fish in Colorado. Spring and fall offer the most consistent fishing statewide, summer is excellent on tailwaters and high-elevation streams, and winter fishing is best on regulated rivers below dams. The best season depends on water conditions, elevation, and what species you’re targeting.
What is the Best Time of Year to Fish in Colorado?
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Month-By-Month Summary Table
| Month | Fishing Quality | Best Options |
|---|---|---|
| Jan–Feb | Fair | Tailwaters, midges |
| Mar–Apr | Good | Pre-runoff tailwaters |
| May–Jun | Variable | Tailwaters, lakes |
| Jul–Aug | Excellent | High country, freestones |
| Sep–Oct | Excellent | Browns, fall hatches |
| Nov–Dec | Fair | Tailwaters |
Ah, Colorado—the land of towering peaks, endless blue skies, and some of the finest fishing this side of paradise. But here’s the deal: timing is everything. Cast your line at the wrong time, and you might as well be fishing for compliments. Nail the right season, though, and you’ll be reeling in fish faster than you can say, “Pass the net!” So, when is the best time to fish in Colorado? Let’s break it down, season by season, with a splash of wit to keep things interesting.
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Spring (March–April): Best for Tailwaters Before Runoff
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Spring fishing can be very good in Colorado, but timing matters. Spring is nature’s alarm clock, and Colorado’s fish are hitting snooze... until they’re not.
- What’s Happening? Rivers swell with snowmelt, turning once-polite streams into raging waters. It’s messy, but the fish don’t care—they’re starving.
- Who’s Biting? Rainbow trout are the main act, out and about for their spawning season. Pike and bass start flexing in the shallows, too.
- How to Win: Toss a nymph or streamer their way and watch the magic happen. If it doesn’t, blame the current—it’s not you.
- Wisdom: Stick to tailwaters, where the rivers behave like they’ve had their morning yoga session—calm, clear, and steady.
Where to fish
- Tailwaters below dams
- Lower elevation rivers before runoff begins
What to expect
- Improving insect activity
- Rising water temperatures
- Inconsistent weather
What to avoid
- Freestone rivers once runoff starts
- Muddy, rising flows
- Spring is best before snowmelt accelerates. Once runoff begins, fishing quality drops quickly on unregulated rivers.
Runoff Season (May–June): Pick Carefully
Runoff is the most challenging time to fish in Colorado.
Where to fish
- Tailwaters with controlled flows
- Lakes and reservoirs
What to expect
- High, dirty water on freestones
- Limited wading opportunities
- Short fishing windows
What to avoid
- Small creeks and freestones at peak runoff
- Unsafe wading conditions
Runoff timing varies by year, but May and June require flexibility and careful river selection.
Summer Fishing in Colorado (July–August): Best Overall Conditions
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Summer in Colorado is a literal cast party, and every angler is invited. Grab your gear and your best excuses for skipping work.
- What’s Happening? Snowmelt has finally chilled out, leaving rivers sparkling like a Pinterest dream. The weather? Chef’s kiss.
- Who’s Biting? Trout galore—brown, cutthroat, brook. Kokanee salmon might even RSVP. High-altitude lakes are the VIP section.
- How to Win: Dry flies are your BFF this season. Match the hatch (think caddisflies and mayflies), and you’ll be everyone’s favorite angler.
Wisdom: High-country lakes are the ultimate summer getaway for trout... and for you, if you need a break from the heat and humanity.
Where to fish
- Tailwaters with controlled flows
- Lakes and reservoirs
What to expect
- High, dirty water on freestones
- Limited wading opportunities
- Short fishing windows
What to avoid
- Small creeks and freestones at peak runoff
- Unsafe wading conditions
- Runoff timing varies by year, but May and June require flexibility and careful river selection.
Fall Fishing in Colorado (September–October): Prime Time for Big Fish
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Fall in Colorado is like a Taylor Swift album—bold, dramatic, and oh-so-good for reeling in heartbreakers (aka trophy fish).
- What’s Happening? Cooler temps mean calmer waters and fish gearing up for winter. The crowds? Gone. It’s just you and the scenery.
- Who’s Biting? Brown trout are in full pre-spawn mode, and they’re hangry. Kokanee salmon are running, which is as wild as it sounds.
- How to Win: Streamers are the pumpkin spice of fall fishing—irresistible to fish with an attitude.
Witty Wisdom: Hit the Gunnison or Taylor Rivers for brown trout so big, they’ll have you bragging at every holiday party.
Where to fish
- Freestones as flows drop
- Tailwaters during brown trout spawning season
What to expect
- Aggressive fish
- Fewer crowds
- Excellent streamer fishing
What to avoid
- Spawning areas where fish should not be disturbed
- Ignoring early snowstorms at elevation
- Fall offers excellent fishing with cooler weather and some of the best scenery of the year.
Winter Fishing in Colorado (November–February): Tailwaters Rule
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Winter fishing in Colorado isn’t for the faint of heart—or thin of socks. But if you’re brave enough, the rewards are worth the frostbite risk.
- What’s Happening? Streams freeze, snow piles up, and ice fishing takes the spotlight. You’ll have the place to yourself because, let’s face it, most folks are inside with hot cocoa.
- Who’s Biting? Rainbow and brown trout in tailwaters are still game. Ice anglers can land lake trout, walleye, and perch in frozen reservoirs.
- How to Win: Dead-drift a midge in tailwaters or jig your way to glory on the ice. Bonus points if you stay warm.
Wisdom: Dress like you’re auditioning for a polar expedition. And remember, the Arkansas River below Pueblo Dam is a year-round hero thanks to its warm water flows.
Winter fishing is slower but rewarding for those willing to adapt.
Where to fish
- Tailwaters below dams
- Lower elevation stretches that remain ice-free
What to expect
- Technical fishing
- Smaller flies
- Shorter days
What to avoid
- Frozen freestones
- Unsafe icy access points
- Winter is best for anglers seeking solitude and consistent tailwater opportunities.
Best Time to Fish in Colorado Based on Your Goals
- Beginners: July through September
- Crowd avoidance: Winter and early spring
- Big trout: September and October
- Dry fly fishing: July through early September
- Scenic trips: Late summer and fall
Final Thoughts
Colorado’s fishing seasons are as dynamic as its weather (read: unpredictable but always thrilling). Whether you’re chasing the perfect summer dry fly hatch, fall’s big brown trout, or winter solitude, there’s a time and place for every angler. Just remember: no matter the season, you’re in Colorado. Even if the fish don’t bite, the views are worth the trip.
So pack your tackle, bring your A-game, and don’t forget to practice your “big one got away” story. Tight lines, folks!
