Dolores River Fly Fishing Report Near Gateway Colorado

Dolores River Fly Fishing Report

The Dolores River near Gateway is a hidden gem, flowing through dramatic red rock canyons and offering a peaceful, remote fly fishing experience. This stretch of river is home to wild brown and rainbow trout, thriving in its cold, clear waters. While flows are low in winter, the scenery more than compensates, and anglers willing to brave the technical conditions can find rewarding fishing opportunities. With sparse hatches of midges and the occasional Blue Wing Olive, this stretch demands stealth, patience, and precise presentations, but the solitude and natural beauty make it an unforgettable destination.

Dolores River Fly Fishing Report – Near Gateway, Colorado – December 2024

The Dolores River near Gateway offers a remote winter fishing experience in one of Colorado’s most stunning desert canyons. With flows hovering around 40-60 CFS, the water is low, clear, and cold, creating a technical challenge for anglers. Trout are holding in deeper pools and slow runs, feeding predominantly on midges, with the occasional Blue Wing Olive on warmer afternoons.

Late morning to mid-afternoon provides the best window for activity as sunlight warms the water slightly. Nymphing is your most reliable approach, while streamers can coax larger trout from hiding in deep, shaded pockets. The solitude, scenery, and technical fishing make this stretch of the Dolores a true hidden gem for those willing to brave the winter chill.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 40-60 CFS
• Water Temperature: 34-38°F
• Clarity: Crystal clear
• Best Times: Late morning to early afternoon
• Current Conditions Rating: ⭐⭐½ (2.5/5) – Stunning solitude, but extremely low flows and cold water make for tough fishing.

River Flow Chart

Dolores River Hatch Chart (Near Gateway)

Top 3 Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Griffith’s Gnat (#20-24) – Effective during brief midge hatches in slow water.
• Nymph: Black Beauty (#20-24) – Reliable for deeper runs and seams.
• Streamer: Olive Woolly Bugger (#8-10) – Slow retrieves near structure can produce strikes from larger trout.

Tips Fly Fishing on the Dolores River

Seasonal Tip
Low flows and cold water mean stealth and precision are key. Approach pools carefully, use long leaders, and focus on deeper water.

Dry Fly
Look for small midge hatches during midday on sunny days. Target slow eddies and calm tailouts with a light presentation.

Nymphing
A double-nymph rig with a Black Beauty and Zebra Midge is your best setup. Add weight to get down to holding fish in deeper runs.

Streamer Fishing
Streamers like Olive Woolly Buggers or smaller leech patterns can tempt bigger fish. Retrieve slowly through deep pools and along shaded banks.

Access Points

Gateway Canyon Area

• Description: Stunning canyon scenery with diverse water types, from riffles to deep pools.
• Why Fish Here: Ideal for nymphing and occasional streamer action in quieter winter conditions.
• Location: Near Gateway, CO, along the Dolores River Road.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Unaweep Canyon Stretch

• Description: A rugged, less-visited section with deeper pools and clear, cold water.
• Why Fish Here: Great for technical nymphing and the chance to hook into larger trout.
• Location: South of Gateway, along Highway 141.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Below Gateway

• Description: A serene stretch downstream of Gateway with accessible runs and pools.
• Why Fish Here: Productive nymphing water with minimal angler pressure.
• Location: Follow Highway 141 toward the Utah border.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

The Dolores River near Gateway offers limited public access, so anglers should verify boundaries and respect private property. A valid Colorado fishing license is required. Practice catch-and-release and pack out all trash to help preserve this pristine fishery.