Arkansas River Fishing Report: Leadville to Buena Vista

The Upper Arkansas River, running from Leadville to Buena Vista, is an angler’s dream, especially during the fall months when the air is crisp, the water is clear, and the fish are hungry. This high-altitude section features a mix of slow meandering waters and fast, rocky runs, making it a versatile playground for fly fishers. The trout here are structure-oriented, hiding behind rocks, in seams, or hugging the banks, so accurate casting and stealth are key. And with the incredible views of the Collegiate Peaks in the background, even when the fishing slows, the scenery alone makes it worth the trip.

Arkansas River Fishing Report – Leadville to Buena Vista – December 2024

The upper Arkansas River between Leadville and Buena Vista is a stunning winter fishery with a mix of solitude and excellent trout opportunities. Flows are currently 80-120 CFS, typical for this time of year, with the river running low, clear, and cold at around 34-38°F. The browns and rainbows here are tucked into deep pools and slower runs, conserving energy in the colder water. While technical, the fishing remains productive for those using small nymphs and slow presentations.

Midday, when the sun warms the river, is the best time to fish, with midges dominating the hatch scene. Nymphing is your most reliable strategy, though aggressive trout can still be tempted with small streamers fished deep and slow. With its breathtaking views of the Collegiate Peaks and manageable winter conditions, this stretch of the Arkansas River is a fantastic option for anglers willing to layer up and fish smart.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 80-120 CFS
• Water Temperature: 34-38°F
• Clarity: Crystal clear
• Best Times: Late morning to early afternoon
• Current Conditions Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Winter conditions offer beauty and solid fishing, though cold temps make it a bit technical.

River Flow Chart

Arkansas River Hatch Chart – Leadville to Buena Vista

Top 3 Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Griffith’s Gnat (#20-24) – Effective during midday midge hatches in slow water.
• Nymph: Zebra Midge (#20-24) – A winter essential for targeting trout in deeper pools.
• Streamer: Black Woolly Bugger (#8-10) – Perfect for enticing aggressive fish in slow runs.

Tips Fly Fishing on the Upper Arkansas River

Seasonal Tip
The cold water means slow and deliberate fishing. Focus on deeper, slower water where trout are conserving energy.

Dry Fly
Midge hatches during the warmest part of the day can bring trout to the surface. Use small patterns like Griffith’s Gnats and watch for subtle rises.

Nymphing
A two-fly rig with a Zebra Midge and a Black Beauty is highly effective. Add split shot to get your flies into the strike zone in deeper pools.

Streamer Fishing
Streamers like Woolly Buggers or small sculpins fished slowly along undercut banks or through deep runs can tempt larger trout.

Access Points

Hayden Meadows

• Description: A classic stretch with deep pools and riffles perfect for winter nymphing.
• Why Fish Here: Quiet and productive, with good holding water for trout.
• Location: Off Highway 24, north of Buena Vista.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Granite Access

• Description: A picturesque section with varied water types and excellent winter fishing opportunities.
• Why Fish Here: Offers solitude and a mix of pools and riffles.
• Location: Near the town of Granite, off Highway 24.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Twin Lakes Outlet

• Description: A productive tailwater area with consistent flows and active fish.
• Why Fish Here: Great for winter nymphing with less pressured trout.
• Location: Below Twin Lakes, accessed via County Road 10.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

The Arkansas River offers plenty of public access points along Highway 24, though some stretches run through private property. Stick to marked public areas and respect landowner boundaries. A valid Colorado fishing license is required, and catch-and-release is encouraged to protect the fishery.