Fishing Report: Arkansas River Middle Basin - Buena Vista to Salida 20.08.2024

If you’re looking for the Goldilocks zone of the Arkansas River, the Middle Basin from Buena Vista to Salida is just right. Flowing at a perfect 430 CFS, this section is a sweet spot for both waders and floaters alike. It’s a dry-dropper paradise, where fish are just as likely to hit a big hopper pattern as they are to take a nymph below. Plus, if you time it right, you’ll be able to enjoy the red quill and BWO hatches as well—two hatches that’ll make even the most seasoned angler giddy.

The grasshoppers are still out, and so are the trout—hanging close to the banks and waiting for their next snack. They’re not shy either, especially when a well-placed Pat’s Rubber Legs or Parachute Adams drifts by. The middle section’s mix of pocket water, runs, and deeper pools means there’s something for everyone, and even on a “slow” day, this stretch will reward you with stunning views of the Collegiate Peaks.

So, if you want a stretch that offers consistent action, jaw-dropping scenery, and fish that are eager to play, the Middle Basin is your ticket to fly fishing glory. Grab your 4x tippet, tie on that terrestrial, and let the games begin!

October Fishing Report: Middle Basin of the Arkansas River (Buena Vista to Salida)

Current River Conditions

The Upper Arkansas River is the trout’s autumn playground—and it’s ready for your best cast. Flows are steady, the fish are active, and the scenery will make you forget about missing that perfect strike (almost). With water flowing at a wade-friendly 87-207 CFS, you can confidently stalk those sneaky trout hanging in the riffles, seams, and pocket water between Leadville and Buena Vista.

Air temps range from a crisp 40°F in the morning to a balmy 65°F by afternoon, making it a prime time for shedding layers and getting down to business. Water temps are holding steady between 50-60°F, meaning those trout are wide awake and looking for breakfast, lunch, and dinner—depending on what time you’re fishing.

The fall hatches are in full swing, and the trout are taking notice. Toss in a BWO Emerger (#18-22) to match the morning hatch, or switch things up with a Parachute Adams when the fish start rising. And if you’re looking to provoke some aggressive takes, a Pat’s Rubber Legs (#8-12) in the faster water will make those trout strike like it’s their last meal.

So grab your gear, hit the Upper Arkansas, and prepare for an epic day on the water. Just don’t let the stunning views of the Collegiate Peaks distract you from hooking into a fat brown or rainbow!

Summary

• Flows: 430 CFS – Perfect for both wading and floating, with plenty of room for anglers to spread out.

• Air Temperatures: 45-70°F – Cool mornings and warmer afternoons make for comfortable fishing all day.

• Water Temperatures: 50-60°F – These ideal temps are keeping trout active throughout the day, especially in slower seams and pockets.

source: Colorado Divison of Resources Station Flow Report

Top 3 Flies:

• Red Quill (#14-16) – Great for matching the mid-morning hatch, especially in slower runs and pools.
• Blue Wing Olive (BWO) Parachute (#18-22) – Ideal for late afternoon hatches, when trout are rising in calmer water.
• Hopper-Dropper Combo (Hopper with a small nymph below) – Terrestrials are still working wonders near the banks, and adding a dropper increases your chances of success in deeper water.

Hatches & Recommended Flies

Nymphs

Pheasant Tail Nymph (#16-20) – This classic pattern is ideal for imitating mayfly nymphs, including BWOs and Red Quills. Fish it in riffles and pocket water, especially during mid-morning before the hatches take off.

RS2 (#18-22) – A great emerger pattern for Blue Wing Olive (BWO) hatches. Use this when fish are feeding just below the surface in slower runs and seams.

Pat’s Rubber Legs (#8-12) – Effective for mimicking stonefly nymphs, this larger pattern works well in deeper runs and faster water.

Dry Flies

Blue Wing Olive (BWO) Parachute (#18-22) – A must-have during fall, when BWO hatches are common in the afternoon. This fly is perfect for targeting rising trout in slower water and along the banks.

Red Quill (#14-16) – With red quill hatches peaking in late morning, this fly will work well in the middle of the day. Fish it in slower pools and runs where trout are feeding on top.

Hopper-Dropper Combo (Hopper with a Nymph Dropper) – Grasshoppers are still productive along the banks, and pairing a hopper with a dropper nymph will help you cover different water columns effectively.

Streamers

Woolly Bugger (#8-12) – A versatile streamer that works great in deeper pools and around structure. Strip it or swing it through riffles to provoke aggressive strikes from larger trout.

Sculpzilla (#6-10) – Ideal for targeting larger trout in faster water. Strip it through deeper pools or swing it along seams for the best results.

Access Points

Hecla Junction

• Why Fish Here: Hecla Junction is one of the most popular access points for both wading and floating. It provides access to excellent riffles, deep runs, and pockets where trout are active. The stretch near Browns Canyon offers spectacular scenery and consistent fishing.
• Location: About 10 miles south of Buena Vista, off County Road 194. It also serves as a popular boat launch for float trips down to Stone Bridge or beyond.

Buena Vista River Park

• Why Fish Here: Located right in Buena Vista, this access point gives you easy wading access to great stretches of water that include riffles and deep pools. Perfect for anglers looking to fish without venturing too far from town. It’s also a good spot to fish dry flies during the afternoon hatches of BWOs and Red Quills.
• Location: Just off East Main Street in Buena Vista, with multiple parking spots and river trails for easy access.

Rincon Access

• Why Fish Here: Rincon is a quieter access point further downstream from Buena Vista, offering less-crowded water and a variety of fishing conditions. This section is great for nymphing and streamer fishing in deeper water, with plenty of opportunities to land larger fish.
• Location: Along Highway 285, approximately 10 miles north of Salida.