If you're looking for a river section that serves up big trout, consistent action, and stunning canyon views, the Lower Arkansas River is calling your name. From Salida to Cañon City, this stretch is known for its slightly warmer waters and bigger, bolder fish. With flows often around 478 CFS, it’s a dream for float trips but just as welcoming to waders, offering a mix of riffles, runs, and deep pools where trout are lurking. The dry-dropper game is strong here, especially during the late-summer and fall months when the hopper-dropper combo reigns supreme. And don't forget your streamers—because the bigger trout here love a good chase in the deeper water!
Expect hatches of caddis, BWOs, and red quills, with trout rising near the banks and in pocket water. The beauty of this section isn’t just the great fishing; it’s the backdrop of the Bighorn Sheep Canyon, where you might spot more wildlife than anglers. This is the section where you go to experience it all—gorgeous scenery, hefty trout, and the kind of fishing action that makes you lose track of time. If you’re chasing trophy browns and rainbows, this stretch is your ticket to a great day on the water. Just be prepared for some serious fish stories by the end!
The lower stretch of the Arkansas River, from Salida to Cañon City, is in great shape this November, with flows around 250-300 CFS, providing ideal conditions for late-season fishing. This stretch is known for warmer temperatures and a more extended fishing season, thanks to its lower elevation. Trout here are feeding steadily, particularly in the late morning to mid-afternoon when the sun warms the water. With midges and Blue Wing Olives still active, anglers can expect solid nymphing opportunities and even the occasional dry fly action during midday hatches.
The water clarity is good, and with the cooler temps, both browns and rainbows are actively feeding. Nymphing is the primary tactic, but streamers can bring big fish out from deeper pools and structure. This section is a fantastic choice for anglers looking to catch some late-fall action before the full chill of winter sets in.
source: Colorado Divison of Resources Station Flow Report
| Month | Primary Hatches | Effective Patterns |
|---|---|---|
| March | Midges, Baetis (BWO) | Zebra Midges (#20-24), Blue Wing Olive (#18-22) |
| April | Midges, Baetis, Caddis | Black Beauty (#18-22), Elk Hair Caddis (#16-18) |
| May | Baetis, Caddis, Stoneflies | Blue Wing Olive (#18-20), Pat’s Rubber Legs (#10-12) |
| June | Caddis, PMDs | Elk Hair Caddis (#16), PMD Comparadun (#16-18) |
| July | Caddis, Yellow Sallies | Yellow Sally (#14-16), PMD Emerger (#18-20) |
| August | Tricos, Caddis, Terrestrials | Trico Spinner (#22-24), Parachute Hopper (#10-12) |
| September | BWOs, Midges, Caddis | BWO Parachute (#18-22), Black Ant (#18-20) |
| October | BWOs, Midges | Blue Wing Olive (#18-22), Zebra Midge (#20-24) |
| November | BWOs, Midges | BWO Emerger (#18-22), Black Beauty (#20-24) |
| December - February | Midges | Griffith’s Gnat (#20-24), WD-40 (#18-22) |
Seasonal Tip
With water temps cooling, focus on the warmest part of the day for more active trout. Be stealthy, as clear water makes fish cautious.
Dry Fly
During midday, Blue Wing Olives may be hatching in calmer pockets. Keep an eye out for rising trout and present a small BWO delicately in these spots.
Nymphing
A two-nymph setup with a Black Beauty or Zebra Midge followed by a small Baetis nymph is very effective. Focus on riffles and deep runs to cover feeding zones.
Streamer Fishing
Try an Olive Sculpin or small Woolly Bugger along deeper sections or undercut banks. Slow strips work best, and a pause during the retrieve often triggers strikes.
The Lower Arkansas Basin through Bighorn Sheep Canyon has well-marked public access points but passes through private land in sections, so stick to designated areas. October is peak for brown trout spawning; please avoid wading through spawning beds to preserve the trout population for future seasons