Fishing Report: Arkansas River Upper Basin - Leadville to Buena Vista 10.08.2024

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. Flows are typically between 87-207 CFS, offering ideal conditions for both wading and casting. The cooler temperatures ensure the trout are active, especially during late mornings and early afternoons.

As you move through Hayden Meadows and down to Granite, expect strong hatches of fall baetis, caddis, and the tail end of the golden stonefly hatch. These hatches bring the trout to the surface, making this section a hotspot for dry fly and dry-dropper rigs. For those who prefer nymphing, the rocky pocket water near Buena Vista provides great opportunities, especially when combined with terrestrials like grasshoppers, ants, and beetles still hanging around from summer.

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.

October Fishing Report: Upper Basin of the Arkansas River (Leadville to Buena Vista)

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!

source: Colorado Divison of Resources Station Flow Report

Summary

• Flows: 87-207 CFS – Flows are low and clear, making the river highly wadeable with excellent visibility. The pocket water and riffles between Granite and Buena Vista are perfect for dry-droppers and nymphing.

• Air Temperatures: 40-65°F – Mornings start cool, but the afternoons warm up enough to get the fish moving, especially as the sun hits the water. Layering up for the cool mornings is key, but expect comfortable fishing as the day progresses.

• Water Temperatures: 50-60°F – Water temps are perfect for keeping trout active throughout the day, especially in slower runs and along the banks looking to feed on aquatic and terrestrial insects.

Hatches & Recommended Flies

Top 3 Flies

• Blue Wing Olive (BWO) Emerger (#18-22) – Ideal for matching the fall hatches of small BWOs, especially in slower riffles and seams.
• Parachute Adams (#18-20) – A great all-around dry fly for rising trout in the middle of the day.
• Pat’s Rubber Legs (#8-12) – Perfect for nymphing through the pocket water and faster runs, imitating stoneflies and attracting aggressive strikes.

Nymphs

Pat’s Rubber Legs (#8-12)

• When to Use: Perfect for imitating stonefly nymphs, this fly is a go-to in fast, pocket water. Use it in deeper runs or riffles where trout are more likely to chase a larger meal. It works especially well in the early morning or late afternoon when fish feed more aggressively on nymphs.

RS2 (#18-22)

• When to Use: Excellent during BWO hatches, the RS2 is a versatile nymph pattern. Fish this during the late morning and early afternoon as the hatch starts. Focus on seams and slower pools where trout will sit and wait for emergers.

Pheasant Tail Nymph (#16-20)

• When to Use: A staple year-round, the Pheasant Tail imitates many nymphs, including mayflies. Use it in riffles and deeper pockets, especially when fishing a two-nymph rig. It’s a reliable choice when hatches aren’t obvious, but trout are still feeding subsurface.

Dry Flies

Blue Wing Olive (BWO) Parachute (#18-22)

• When to Use: Ideal for the early afternoon when BWO hatches are in full swing. You’ll want to fish this in slower runs and seams where trout are rising. This pattern is perfect for matching the fall BWO hatch and getting those subtle topwater takes.

Parachute Adams (#18-20)

• When to Use: The Parachute Adams is one of the most versatile dry flies. It can imitate a variety of insects and is particularly effective during calm afternoons. Use it when you spot trout rising for mayflies or as a general searching pattern in clear, calm water.

Elk Hair Caddis (#14-18)

• When to Use: Late afternoons and evenings, especially during caddis hatches, are prime times for this fly. Fish it along the banks or near structure where trout are sipping caddis. This pattern can also be used as an indicator for a dry-dropper rig when fishing nymphs below.

Streamers

Woolly Bugger (#8-12)

• When to Use: Early mornings or late evenings are the best times for throwing a Woolly Bugger. It’s particularly effective in deeper pools or near structure where larger trout like to hang out. Strip it through deeper water or swing it through runs to entice aggressive strikes.

Sculpzilla (#6-10)

• When to Use: Use this streamer in faster water or deeper pools, especially when targeting bigger fish. It’s great for imitating small baitfish or sculpins and works best when stripped quickly or swung through deep sections of the river.

Thin Mint (#8)

• When to Use: This is another excellent choice for early morning or late evening streamer action. Fish it in slower, deeper runs or pools where trout are holding. Its flashy movement makes it irresistible to larger, aggressive trout.

Access Points

Hayden Meadows

• Why Fish Here: This section offers easy wading and is known for its slow-moving water, grassy banks, and excellent opportunities for dry fly fishing with terrestrials like hoppers and ants. It's perfect for targeting browns and rainbows feeding along the banks.
• Location: Just north of Leadville, along Highway 24. There's plenty of public access with parking and trails leading down to the river.

Granite

• Why Fish Here: The river near Granite features faster-moving pocket water and riffles, ideal for nymphing with stonefly and mayfly patterns. This area is great for anglers who enjoy more technical fishing in faster water.
• Location: South of Leadville on Highway 24. Parking is available near the bridge in Granite, providing direct access to the river.

Buena Vista River Park (Near the Upper Section)

• Why Fish Here: Though often considered part of the middle section, the upstream stretch near Buena Vista offers a variety of water types including riffles, runs, and deeper pools, making it an excellent spot for both dry fly and nymph fishing.
• Location: East Main Street in Buena Vista. Park at the river park and walk along the trails for easy access.