Middle Colorado River Fly Fishing Report Near Glenwood Springs

The Middle Colorado River offers a variety of fly fishing opportunities, especially in the stretch between Glenwood Springs and Rifle, Colorado. Known for its larger fish and slower-moving waters, this section is ideal for anglers seeking bigger brown and rainbow trout. With numerous access points, including Two Rivers Park and Grizzly Creek, you can easily wade or float through prime trout territory.

Colorado River Fishing Report – Middle Section Near Glenwood Springs – December 2024

The middle Colorado River near Glenwood Springs is a winter haven for anglers seeking steady action and gorgeous views of the Roaring Fork Valley. With flows around 800-1,000 CFS, the river remains clear and easily fishable, offering productive nymphing and occasional streamer opportunities. The cold water temperatures, averaging 36-40°F, slow fish activity, concentrating trout in deep, slow-moving runs and pools.

Late morning through early afternoon is the prime fishing window as sunlight warms the river and prompts trout to feed. Midges dominate the hatch scene, with sporadic Blue Wing Olive activity during warmer stretches. Whether you’re nymphing the seams or swinging a streamer through deep pools, this stretch combines consistent winter fishing with spectacular scenery.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 800-1,000 CFS
• Water Temperature: 36-40°F
• Clarity: Clear
• Best Times: Late morning to early afternoon
• Current Conditions Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Productive winter conditions with accessible flows and plenty of holding water.

River Flow Chart

Colorado River Hatch Chart (Near Glenwood Springs)

Top 3 Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Griffith’s Gnat (#20-24) – Effective during brief midday midge hatches in calmer water.
• Nymph: Zebra Midge (#20-24) – Perfect for targeting trout in deeper seams and slower runs.
• Streamer: White Slump Buster (#8-10) – Swing through deep pools to entice larger trout.

Tips Fly Fishing on the Middle Colorado River

Seasonal Tip
Focus on slower, deeper runs and pools where trout are conserving energy in cold water. Longer leaders and lighter tippet help ensure stealthy presentations.

Dry Fly
Look for brief midge hatches in calm water on sunny afternoons. Present small dries like Griffith’s Gnats gently to avoid spooking fish.

Nymphing
Double-nymph rigs with a Zebra Midge and a Black Beauty are highly effective. Use split shot to get your flies down to feeding fish.

Streamer Fishing
Streamers like Slump Busters or small sculpin patterns fished slowly can provoke strikes from larger trout holding near structure.

Access Points

Two Rivers Park

• Description: A convenient access point near the confluence of the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers.
• Why Fish Here: Excellent riffles, runs, and pools with diverse holding water.
• Location: In Glenwood Springs, CO, near I-70.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

South Canyon

• Description: A scenic stretch with productive deep runs and slower pools.
• Why Fish Here: Ideal for winter nymphing and occasional streamer action.
• Location: Just west of Glenwood Springs, off I-70.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

New Castle River Park

• Description: A less-crowded section downstream with diverse water types and great holding areas.
• Why Fish Here: Offers consistent winter fishing and good access to deeper pools.
• Location: In New Castle, CO, just west of Glenwood Springs.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

The middle Colorado River near Glenwood Springs offers public access at designated points. Anglers should respect private property boundaries and stick to marked areas. A valid Colorado fishing license is required. Catch-and-release practices and barbless hooks are strongly encouraged to maintain this gold-medal fishery.