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The lower Colorado River near Grand Junction offers a unique fly fishing experience amidst Colorado's high desert landscapes, blending mild winter weather with excellent fishing opportunities. Flowing through scenic stretches near Fruita, Connected Lakes, and the Colorado River State Parks, this section is characterized by its slower runs, deep pools, and clear water.
Updated: 11/26/2025
Flows held steady this week and clarity has improved after the color swings earlier in the month, giving the lower stretches a more stable winter personality. Fish are sliding into slower, deeper troughs along the banks, with midge and light Baetis activity driving most of the eats. Pressure remains low, and with colder night temps in the valley, you’ll find trout waking up late and feeding tight to structure. This stretch can look big and intimidating, but the productive water shrinks dramatically in winter if you focus on soft seams and slow shelves. Expect fewer rising fish, consistent nymph eats, and the occasional streamer chase if you crawl it through deep buckets.
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Conditions Summary
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Flow: ~800 CFS at Dotsero trending stable
Water Temp: Mid 30s
Air Temp: High 20s to upper 40s
Clarity: 2 ft visibility and improving
Crowds: Low
Best Window: 11 am to 3 pm
Weather
Cold desert mornings but comfortable midday sun. Expect frozen guides early and a pleasant warm-up by late morning.
Recommended Article
Colorado Winter Trout Feeding Behavior: Why Midges Rule Below 40 Degrees
Boosts winter understanding for anglers fishing Rifle, Parachute, and Junction water.
Top Flies in Your Box This Week
Ten proven winter patterns for the Lower Colorado:
- Black Beauty 20–22
- Mercury Midge 20–22
- Top Secret Midge 20–22
- Olive WD40 20
- Chocolate Thunder 20
- Barr’s BWO Emerger 18–20
- Rainbow Warrior 20
- Mini Leech Black 12
- Thin Mint Bugger 10
- Sparkle Wing RS2 20
Hatch Chart for November
| Hatch Type | Bugs You’ll See | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Primary | Midges (cream, black) | Active midday when sun hits water |
| Secondary | Baetis | Best on cloudy afternoons |
| Tertiary | Winter Stones | Light but present near canyon pockets |
Pro Rig of the Week
Low-and-Slow Winter Rig for Big Water
Leader: 10–12 ft 5x
Top Fly: Chocolate Thunder size 20
Dropper: Black Beauty size 22
Weight: Micro shot placed 8–10 inches above top fly
Indicator: Yarn or air-lock, set deep for 3–6 ft troughs
Fishing Type Scores
Dry Fly: ⭐
Nymphing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Streamer: ⭐⭐⭐
Access Points
Silt → Rifle
Best clarity of the Lower Colorado right now. Soft winter edges and slower inside bends.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rifle → Parachute
Colder but very little pressure. Target deep buckets and long walking speed seams.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
De Beque → Cameo
Bigger water, more color fluctuation. Can be good on warmer afternoons.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Grand Junction Town Water
Colder and slower. Best on sunny days.
Rating: ⭐⭐
Local Regulations and Notes
Artificial flies only in designated sections
Watch for ice shelves forming overnight
Flows stable with minimal fluctuation
Stealth matters more than distance here
FAQ
Q: Is the Lower Colorado good in winter?
A: Yes, especially between Silt and Rifle where clarity stays more consistent.
Q: When is the best time to fish?
A: Midday warming is crucial. Before 11 am is typically slow.
Q: Are streamers worth it?
A: Yes, but only very slow presentations through deep buckets.
Q: How much weight should I use?
A: More than you think. This is deep water.
Q: What’s the biggest mistake anglers make?
A: Fishing too fast and ignoring the slow, soft edges.
