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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.
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Spring has arrived on the Colorado River near Glenwood Springs, bringing with it increased flows and active trout. Recent reports indicate that the river is running at approximately 1,770 CFS below Glenwood Springs and rising, with clear water conditions. Anglers can expect productive fishing opportunities, particularly during midday hours.
Typical spring hatches of Blue Winged Olives, caddis, and stoneflies are beginning to emerge. Nymphing with stonefly patterns trailed by midge or Blue Winged Olive nymphs has proven effective.
Conditions Summary
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- Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5 – Productive fishing with seasonal hatches emerging)
- Flow Rate: Approximately 1,770 CFS below Glenwood Springs and rising.
- Water Temperature: 47°F
- Air Temperature: Highs around 51°F
- Clarity: Clear USGS Water Data
- Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
- Fishing Pressure: Moderate, with increased activity on weekends
- Wind: Mild in the mornings, with potential gusts in the afternoons
River Flow Chart
Source: USGS Monitoring Station 09085100USGS Water Data
Colorado River Hatch Chart
| Month | Primary Hatches | Effective Patterns |
|---|---|---|
| March | Midges, Blue Winged Olives | RS2 (#20–22), Zebra Midge (#20–24) |
| April | Blue Winged Olives, Caddis, Stoneflies | Barr’s Emerger (#18–20), Elk Hair Caddis (#16–18), Pat's Rubber Legs (#10–12) |
| May | Caddis, Stoneflies | Stimulator (#14–16), Pat’s Rubber Legs (#10–12) |
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Top 3 Flies for the Month
- Dry Fly: Blue Wing Olive Parachute (#18–22) – Effective during overcast afternoons in slower water sections.
- Nymph: Beadhead Pheasant Tail (#16–18) trailed by a JuJu Baetis (#18–20) – Productive in deeper runs and riffles.
- Streamer: Woolly Bugger (#8–10) in olive or black – Useful during periods of increased flow or lower light conditions.
Tips for Fly Fishing on the Colorado River
- Seasonal Tip: As water temperatures rise, trout become more active. Focus on transitional zones where fast water meets slow, as fish often hold in these areas.
- Dry Fly: Look for rising fish in the afternoons, especially during Blue Winged Olive hatches. Present flies upstream and allow a natural drift over feeding lanes.
- Nymphing: Utilize a double nymph rig with a heavier point fly and a smaller dropper. Adjust indicator depth to target fish holding near the bottom.
- Streamer Fishing: During early mornings or cloudy days, streamers can entice larger trout. Cast across and slightly downstream, retrieving with varied speeds.
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Access Points
Two Rivers Park (Glenwood Springs):
- Description: Where the Roaring Fork meets the Colorado. Wide, deep water with easy access and parking.
- Why Fish Here: Consistent hatches and the potential for larger fish staging from the Colorado.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Grizzly Creek Access:
- Description: Offers wading opportunities with riffles and runs.
- Why Fish Here: Less crowded, with good nymphing water and occasional dry fly action.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
South Canyon Recreation Area:
- Description: Downstream from Glenwood Springs, featuring slower runs and pools.
- Why Fish Here: Suitable for both wading and floating, with opportunities for larger trout.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hot Spots
- Grizzly Creek Confluence: Where Grizzly Creek meets the Colorado River, creating a mix of currents that attract feeding trout.
- South Canyon Pools: Deep pools in this area are known to hold larger trout, especially during warmer parts of the day.
- New Castle Riffles: Stretch of river near New Castle with consistent riffles, providing excellent nymphing opportunities.
Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights
Fishing Regulations:-
- Artificial flies and lures only in certain sections.Crystal Fly Shop+3Taylor Creek Fly Shops+3Taylor Creek Fly Shops+3
- Catch-and-release encouraged to maintain fish populations.
- Be aware of specific seasonal closures or restrictions.
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- Respect private property boundaries; fish only in public access areas or with landowner permission.
- Stay within high-water marks to avoid trespassing.
FAQ on this Spot
1. Do I need a float to fish the Colorado River near Glenwood Springs in April?
Not necessarily. While floating provides access to more water, there are ample wading opportunities at access points like Two Rivers Park and Grizzly Creek.Spreaker
2. What's the best time of day to fish?
Late morning through early afternoon is optimal, as water temperatures rise and insect activity increases.
**3. What kind of rod and setup should I bring
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