.png?width=300&height=100&name=Rise%20Beyond%20Logo%2010.29.24%20300x100px%20(2).png "Rise Beyond Fly Fishing Co. logo featuring a cowboy riding a large trout, holding a fishing rod in one hand and a camera in the other, with stylized text in a rugged, outdoor-themed font")
.png)
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
The Upper Arkansas River Basin from Leadville to Buena Vista is about as close as you can get to winter fly fishing in the wild west. Picture snow-covered peaks, crisp mountain air, and a river that still manages to hold active trout despite the freezing temperatures. If you’re the type of angler who doesn’t mind cold fingers and frozen guides, this section offers some rewarding opportunities—if you know where to look.
While mornings can be brutally cold, the midday window brings just enough warmth to get the fish feeding. Trout are hunkered down in deep, slow-moving water, sipping midges and the occasional Blue Wing Olive. Nymphing will be your best bet, but a well-presented small streamer might entice an opportunistic brown looking for an easy meal.
New Podcast!
Conditions Summary
%20(2).png?width=800&height=175&name=Guide%20Rating%20(800%20x%20175%20px)%20(2).png)
- Flow Rate: 125-225 CFS
- Water Temperature: 36-40°F
- Clarity: Clear with occasional slush in the mornings
- Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
- Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Scenic, productive, but cold)
River Flow Chart
Arkansas River Hatch Chart (Winter)
| Month | Primary Hatches | Effective Patterns |
|---|---|---|
| December | Midges | Black Beauty (#20-24), Top Secret Midge (#20-22) |
| January | Midges, Baetis | Zebra Midge (#20-24), RS2 (#18-22) |
| February | Midges, Baetis | Mercury Midge (#20-22), Blue Wing Olive (#18-22) |
Top 3 Flies for the Week
%20(1).png?width=500&height=500&name=RISE%20BEYOND%20(800%20x%20800%20px)%20(1).png)
- Dry Fly: Parachute BWO (#18-20) – Works on the occasional warm afternoon with light hatches.
- Nymph: Jujubee Midge (#20-24) – A deadly choice in slow pools and riffles.
- Streamer: Mini Leech (#10-12) – Slow swings through deep water can produce.
Tips Fly Fishing on the Upper Arkansas
Seasonal Tip
Fish are conserving energy, so focus on deep pools and inside seams where they can hold without exerting too much effort.
Dry Fly
Minimal activity, but a small BWO in the afternoon might get some attention on warmer days.
Nymphing
Go small and subtle—a two-fly setup with a midge and Baetis nymph will produce the best results.
Streamer Fishing
Big browns might chase a small streamer, but keep your presentation slow and methodical.
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.
