Arkansas River Fly Fishing Report - Buena Vista to Salida | Modern Fly Reports

If you’re looking for the Goldilocks zone of the Arkansas River, the Middle Basin from Buena Vista to Salida is just right. 

Arkansas River Fishing Report – Buena Vista to Salida – April 2025

Spring is in full swing along the Arkansas River between Buena Vista and Salida. The river is running clear with flows around 295 CFS at Hecla Junction, providing excellent conditions for both wade and float anglers. Water temperatures are climbing into the 40s°F, encouraging trout to become more active and move into feeding lanes.

Blue Winged Olive hatches are happening in the afternoons, especially between 1 PM and 4 PM, offering exciting dry fly opportunities. Mornings are best approached with nymph rigs targeting deeper pools, while afternoons see fish moving into shallower runs and riffles. Dry-dropper setups become particularly effective during this time. Anglers should be prepared for subtle takes, as fish are feeding selectively on emerging insects.

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Conditions Summary

• Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5 – Productive fishing with seasonal hatches emerging)
• Flow Rate: ~295 CFS at Hecla Junction
• Water Temp: 40s°F
• Air Temp: 65–72°F
• Clarity: Clear
• Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
• Fishing Pressure: Moderate, with increased activity on weekends
• Wind: Mild in the mornings, with potential gusts in the afternoons

River Flow Chart

Source: Colorado DWR Stations | U.S. Geological Survey

Arkansas River Hatch Chart

Top 3 Flies for April

• Dry Fly: Elk Hair Caddis (#16–18) – Effective during warm afternoons when caddis are active.
• Nymph: Pat’s Rubber Legs (#10–12) – Ideal for dead drifting near deep pools or seams.
• Streamer: Sculpzilla (#6–8) – Best used in early mornings or on overcast days to entice larger trout.

Tips for Fly Fishing the Arkansas River

• Seasonal Tip: As water temperatures rise, trout become more active. Focus on transitional zones where fast water meets slow, as fish often hold in these areas.
• Dry Fly: Look for rising fish in the afternoons, especially during Blue Winged Olive hatches. Present flies upstream and allow a natural drift over feeding lanes.
• Nymphing: Utilize a double nymph rig with a heavier point fly and a smaller dropper. Adjust indicator depth to target fish holding near the bottom.
• Streamer Fishing: During early mornings or cloudy days, streamers can entice larger trout. Cast across and slightly downstream, retrieving with varied speeds.

Access Points

Big Bend

• Description: Easily accessible stretch with ample parking and a mix of riffles and pools.
• Why Fish Here: Known for productive dry fly fishing during BWO hatches.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Hecla Junction

• Description: Popular access point with a boat ramp and camping facilities.
• Why Fish Here: Offers both wade and float fishing opportunities with diverse water types.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Browns Canyon

• Description: Scenic section with a mix of pocket water and deeper runs.
• Why Fish Here: Ideal for anglers seeking solitude and technical fishing challenges.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

🔥 Hot Spots

• Big Bend Riffles: Active fish feeding during afternoon BWO hatches.
• Hecla Junction Pools: Consistent nymphing opportunities in deeper water.
• Browns Canyon Pocket Water: Challenging but rewarding dry-dropper fishing.

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

The Arkansas River between Buena Vista and Salida offers extensive public access, particularly along Highway 285. However, some sections are private; always observe posted signs and respect property boundaries. A valid Colorado fishing license is mandatory. While standard state regulations apply, practicing catch-and-release is encouraged to maintain the river's healthy trout population.

FAQ on This Spot

1. Is this stretch fishable year-round?
Yes, though flows and access can vary based on snowmelt and weather.

2. Can I fish here without a boat?
Absolutely — many sections offer walk-and-wade access.