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The Best Fly Fishing Destinations in Colorado
Colorado, a fly angler’s paradise, is home to some of the most scenic and productive fishing waters in the United States. With a variety of rivers, creeks, and alpine lakes, the state offers something for every level of fly fishing enthusiast. Here’s your guide to the top destinations in the Centennial State, complete with tips, seasonal insights, and more.
Reel Colorado: The Best Fly Fishing Destinations That’ll Make You Want to Quit Your Day Job
Colorado is the ultimate playground for fly anglers. It’s got trout, dramatic river views, and a sense of adventure so good it should come with a warning label. Whether you’re looking to brag about trophy catches or just enjoy some zen moments on the water, Colorado’s rivers are where it’s at. Let’s dive into the spots that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous and your fishing buddies envious.
1. South Platte River: The Overachiever
- Prime Sections: Cheesman Canyon, Deckers, Dream Stream
- Fish Lineup: Brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee salmon
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (for hatches) and fall (for monster browns)
This river is like the valedictorian of fly fishing. Cheesman Canyon offers wild trout with wild attitudes, while the Dream Stream is where you’ll find fish big enough to make you double-check your net size. Bring your A-game—these trout have PhDs in outsmarting anglers.
Pro Tip: Tiny midges and patience in winter; in summer, throw a hopper-dropper combo for some action-packed strikes.
2. Arkansas River: Where Hatches and High Fives Happen
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- Go-To Spots: Browns Canyon, Salida stretch
- Fish Celebrities: Brown trout and rainbow trout
- Top Seasons: Spring for caddis chaos; summer for hopper heaven
This river doesn’t just fish well; it parties well. The Mother’s Day Caddis Hatch is the stuff of legend, with trout gorging like they’re at an all-you-can-eat buffet. Add stunning canyon views, and you’ve got a recipe for a perfect fishing day.
Pro Tip: Time your visit for late spring and make sure you’ve got some Elk Hair Caddis flies in your box.
3. Blue River: Trophy Trout, Right off Main Street
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- Notable Spots: Silverthorne tailwater
- Species: Brown trout, rainbow trout
- Fishin’ Style: Year-round thanks to consistent flows
The Blue River is Colorado’s version of a boutique fly shop—small, classy, and full of treasures. Trophy trout lurk right under the Silverthorne Outlets, snacking on mysis shrimp. It's urban fishing at its finest, with a side of designer shopping if the fishing’s slow.
Pro Tip: Dress warm and stealthily—these fish don’t tolerate fashion faux pas or heavy footfalls.
4. Gunnison River: Trout, Canyon, Action!
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- Hot Sections: Gunnison Gorge, Black Canyon
- Catch of the Day: Brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee salmon
- Seasonal Sweet Spot: Summer and fall
The Gunnison River is where trout and adrenaline junkies meet. Hike in, float in, or both—just make sure your gear is ready for some serious action. The salmon fly hatch is like a rock concert for fish, with trout losing their cool over big dries.
Pro Tip: Big browns love streamers. Bring a rod with backbone because these fish don’t play nice.
5. Colorado River: Float Your Boat
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- Must-Fish Areas: Gore Canyon, Pumphouse to State Bridge
- Fish Cast: Brown trout, rainbow trout, mountain whitefish
- Prime Time: Fall for spawning browns; spring for surface action
The Colorado River is the multitasker of fly fishing. Wade, float, or simply marvel at the scenery—this river does it all. Float trips are king here, letting you cover miles of fishable water while sipping on your favorite beverage.
Pro Tip: Streamer fishing on the move is the name of the game. Bonus points if you spot a bald eagle while you’re at it.
Seasonal Survival Guide
- Spring: Bring your BWO game and maybe an extra layer.
- Summer: Pack terrestrials and sunscreen. Hoppers are a must!
- Fall: Streamers for aggressive browns. Keep your camera ready for that “hero shot.”
- Winter: Tailwaters only—your fingers will hate you, but the fishing is worth it.
Stay, Eat, Fish, Repeat
- Licenses: Don’t get caught without one—get yours here.
- Gear Up: Local fly shops are treasure troves of advice and patterns.
- Where to Sleep: From riverside cabins to campgrounds, options abound.
Catch, Click, and Conserve
Colorado’s waters need love too. Practice catch-and-release, respect spawning beds, and consider supporting groups like Trout Unlimited. You can’t catch fish in a dry river, after all.
Hooked Yet?
Colorado’s fly fishing is more than just a hobby—it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re wrangling monster trout on the Gunnison or perfecting your cast on the Arkansas, these rivers will have you coming back for more. Tight lines!
