Winter Fly Fishing on the Middle Colorado River 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.

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The Middle Colorado near Glenwood Springs is the winter angler’s secret weapon—big water, consistent hatches, and hungry trout that aren’t as spooky as their tailwater cousins. While other rivers are locked in ice, this stretch stays open and productive, offering some of the best winter nymphing and streamer fishing in the state.

Flows are low but stable, making for ideal sight-fishing conditions. Trout are stacked in deeper seams and slower-moving runs, sipping midges and Baetis below the surface. If you're looking for a trophy brown, now’s the time—dead-drifted streamers can move big fish that are opportunistically feeding. If you can brave the cold, you’ll find some of the best winter action on the Colorado right here.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 900-1,200 CFS (steady winter flows)
• Water Temperature: 38-42°F
• Clarity: Clear with occasional stain from snowmelt
• Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
• Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5 – One of the best winter fisheries in the state)

River Flow Chart

Middle Colorado Hatch Chart

Top 3 Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Griffith’s Gnat (#20-22) – Look for rising trout in slow-moving backwaters on warm afternoons.
• Nymph: Pat’s Rubber Legs (#10-12) – Deadly on slower riffles and seams.
• Streamer: Black Sculpzilla (#6-8) – A slowly stripped sculpin pattern can tempt big browns.

Tips for Fly Fishing the Middle Colorado near Glenwood Springs

Seasonal Tip

The bigger fish are still feeding, but they’re not expending much energy—slow your presentation, use longer drifts, and adjust your weight often.

Dry Fly

Midday midge hatches can bring a few risers into slower pools, but expect most fish to stay subsurface.

Nymphing

A double-nymph rig with a stonefly and small midge is your best bet. Fish deep seams and tailouts for best results.

Streamer Fishing

Slow retrieves and dead-drifted leeches or sculpins will entice bigger browns—don’t overwork your streamer in winter.

Access Points

Two Rivers Park (Downtown Glenwood Springs)

• Description: Easy access with great riffles and deep runs.
• Why Fish Here: One of the most productive winter sections with a mix of trout species.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

South Canyon (Downstream from Glenwood Springs)

• Description: Deeper pools with fewer anglers.
• Why Fish Here: Great for streamer fishing and targeting bigger browns.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

New Castle Public Access

• Description: Less pressured section with deeper runs.
• Why Fish Here: Perfect for nymphing and sight-fishing in winter conditions.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

• Artificial flies and lures only in certain sections—check local regulations.
• Private property markers: Watch for posted signs and fences along private land.
• Wading safety: The Middle Colorado has large flows, so be mindful of swift currents and icy riverbanks in winter.
• Catch-and-release recommended—this section supports a healthy population of wild trout.

If you're looking for one of the most reliable winter fisheries in Colorado, the Middle Colorado near Glenwood Springs delivers big trout, stable flows, and year-round action.