Dolores River Fly Fishing Report Near McPhee Reservoir January 2025

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.

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Dolores River Fly Fishing Report – Near Gateway, Colorado – Winter 2025

The Dolores River in winter is a different beast—a quiet, wild stretch of water with solitude that’s hard to beat. The flows are low, the air is crisp, and the trout are holding in deep, slow pools, conserving energy. If you’re looking for easy fishing, this isn’t it. But if you’re willing to work for your fish, this section can reward you with healthy brown and rainbow trout—and zero crowds.

With clear water and low flows, stealth is everything. You’ll need light tippet, small nymphs, and a patient approach to fool these selective fish. Dry fly opportunities are minimal, but midges and the occasional Blue Wing Olive hatch can bring fish to the surface on warmer afternoons. If you're feeling aggressive, swinging a small sculpin streamer through deeper runs might wake up a larger brown.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 20-40 CFS
• Water Temperature: 34-38°F
• Clarity: Gin-clear
• Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
• Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️ (2/5 – Beautiful scenery, but tough fishing conditions)

River Flow Chart

Dolores River Hatch Chart (Winter)

Top 3 Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Griffith’s Gnat (#20-22) – Rare, but effective during light midge hatches.
• Nymph: Jujubee Midge (#20-24) – The best bet for cold, clear water.
• Streamer: Mini Sculpzilla (#8-10) – Slowly swung through deep winter pools.

Tips for Fly Fishing the Dolores River

Seasonal Tip

With low winter flows, trout are hugging the bottom in deep pools—light indicators, small flies, and long leaders are the key to success.

Dry Fly

Limited surface activity, but a small BWO or midge can work on warm afternoons.

Nymphing

Go light and subtle—a two-fly rig with a midge and Baetis nymph will produce the best results.

Streamer Fishing

Slow strips with small sculpin patterns might trigger a bigger brown trout holding in deep runs.

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.