Winter Fly Fishing on the Middle Colorado River Near Glenwood

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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March on the Colorado River near Glenwood Springs is like a trout's version of happy hour—the days are warming, bugs are hatching, and the fish are ready to party. With flows around 930 CFS and clear water conditions, anglers are finding excellent opportunities to hook into active trout. ​Spreaker+1Spreaker+1

Midges and Blue Winged Olives (BWOs) are the main courses on the trout's menu right now. While dry fly action is still warming up, sub-surface nymphing has been highly productive. Cloudy days are particularly favorable, especially for those looking to swing streamers and entice the more aggressive feeders. ​Taylor Creek Fly Shops

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 930 CFS below Glenwood Springs​Spreaker+2Taylor Creek Fly Shops+2Spreaker+2
• Water Temperature: 38°F​Crystal Fly Shop+2Spreaker+2Log in or sign up to view+2
• Clarity: Clear​
• Best Times: Late morning to afternoon​
• Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5 – Optimal conditions for active trout)​

River Flow Chart

Source: Colorado DWR River Station Reports​

Colorado River Hatch Chart

Top Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Parachute BWO (#18-22) – Effective during afternoon hatches.​
• Nymph: Pheasant Tail (#16-20) – A reliable Baetis nymph imitation.​
• Streamer: Sculpzilla (#6-8) – Best fished with slow retrieves in deeper runs.

Tips for Fly Fishing the Colorado River near Glenwood Springs in March

Seasonal Tip

Focus on warmer afternoons when insect activity peaks, increasing trout feeding behavior.​

Dry Fly

BWOs are starting to hatch; target rising trout in slower seams and tailouts.​

Nymphing

Double nymph rigs with a larger stonefly pattern followed by a smaller midge or BWO nymph are effective.​

Streamer Fishing

Swinging streamers can entice aggressive strikes, especially during overcast conditions.​

Access Points

Grizzly Creek Access

• Description: Offers wade fishing opportunities with nearby parking.​
• Why Fish Here: Productive riffles and runs close to Glenwood Springs.​
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐​

Two Rivers Park

• Description: Urban access with amenities and diverse water types.​
• Why Fish Here: Convenient location with productive fishing spots.​
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐​

South Canyon

• Description: Less crowded area with deeper pools and runs.​
• Why Fish Here: Opportunity to target larger trout away from the crowds.​
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐​

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

• Spawning Closures: Effective March 15, tributaries such as Grizzly, No Name, Canyon, Castle, and Elk Creeks are closed to protect spawning trout. ​Instagram+2Taylor Creek Fly Shops+2Log in or sign up to view+2
• Fishing Restrictions: Seasonal spawning closures are in effect on tributaries of the lower Roaring Fork and middle Colorado rivers. ​Instagram+4Spreaker+4Spreaker+4
• Private Property: Be aware of private land boundaries and respect landowner rights.​

With ideal conditions and active hatches, March is an excellent time to fish the Colorado River near Glenwood Springs. Remember to observe spawning closures and practice ethical angling to preserve this valuable fishery.

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