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.
As fall wraps up, the Upper Arkansas from Leadville to Buena Vista is seeing its last vibrant autumn colors, paired with stellar fishing. This stretch is a scenic, high-altitude paradise that’s perfect for trout on the move, especially in riffles and deep runs. Water flows are around 100-150 CFS, allowing for excellent wading conditions, and the cool temps mean the trout are staying active, particularly around midday when the sun hits the river.
With midges and Blue Wing Olives still hatching, dry fly action is possible, but nymphing is the name of the game right now. This is the time for small patterns and precise presentations, especially since the fish here tend to get selective with colder water. Streamers can be effective too, especially early in the day for anglers looking to land a larger brown trout in preparation for winter.
Source: Colorado Division of Natural Resources River Flow Station
| 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
Late fall means trout are focused on conserving energy, so approach pools and runs with a delicate presentation, particularly around midday when they’re most active.
Dry Fly
Small BWOs can bring fish to the surface. Focus on back eddies and softer currents for rising fish during the warmest part of the day.
Nymphing
A double nymph rig with a Zebra Midge followed by a small Baetis pattern can be deadly. Work riffles and deeper seams with light tippet for optimal results.
Streamer Fishing
If you’re after bigger browns, start early with an Olive Woolly Bugger. Keep retrieves slow and deliberate through pools and near banks to entice larger fish.
The Upper Arkansas is catch-and-release only for most sections, especially around popular access points. Barbless hooks are highly recommended to minimize harm. As always, stay mindful of private property boundaries, use designated access points, and carry a valid Colorado fishing license. This stretch has a rich fishing culture, so practicing good etiquette helps maintain the quality and enjoyment for all anglers.