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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. Anglers can target wild brown and rainbow trout that concentrate in these holding areas during winter, feeding primarily on midges and small subsurface offerings. With its accessible entry points and breathtaking views of red rock canyons, this stretch provides a tranquil and rewarding experience for anglers willing to embrace the season’s technical challenges.
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Colorado River Fishing Report – Lower Section Near Grand Junction – December 2024
The lower Colorado River near Grand Junction offers a unique winter fly fishing experience in Colorado’s high desert. With flows steady around 800-1,200 CFS, the river is easily fishable with clear water and plenty of accessible holding water. While trout activity slows with water temperatures in the 36-40°F range, fish remain concentrated in deeper pools and slow runs, providing consistent opportunities for patient anglers.
Late morning to mid-afternoon is your best bet for finding feeding trout, as the sun slightly warms the river and activates midges, the primary winter hatch. Nymphing is the most productive approach, while streamers fished along undercut banks and deep seams can entice larger trout. The combination of mild winter weather and dramatic desert landscapes makes this stretch of river a rewarding destination for winter fly fishing.
Conditions Summary
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- Flow Rate: 800-1,200 CFS
- Water Temperature: 36-40°F
- Clarity: Clear
- Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
- Current Conditions Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Great winter fishing with consistent action and mild weather.
River Flow Chart
Colorado River Hatch Chart (Near Grand Junction)
| Month | Primary Hatches | Effective Patterns |
|---|---|---|
| December | Midges | Zebra Midge (#20-24), Black Beauty (#20-24) |
| January | Midges | WD-40 (#20-24), Griffith’s Gnat (#20-24) |
| February | Midges | Miracle Midge (#20-24), Black Beauty (#20-24) |
Top 3 Flies for the Week
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- Dry Fly: Griffith’s Gnat (#20-24) – Effective during brief midge hatches in slower water.
- Nymph: Zebra Midge (#20-24) – A consistent choice for deeper seams and pools.
- Streamer: Olive Woolly Bugger (#8-10) – Great for targeting larger trout near structure.
Tips Fly Fishing on the Lower Colorado River
Seasonal Tip
Focus on deeper pools and slow runs where trout are conserving energy. Use longer leaders and lighter tippet for stealthy presentations.
Dry Fly
Midge hatches during sunny afternoons offer brief dry fly opportunities. Look for rising fish in calmer water and present Griffith’s Gnats delicately.
Nymphing
Double-nymph rigs with a Zebra Midge and a Black Beauty are highly effective. Use enough weight to get your flies down to feeding lanes in deeper water.
Streamer Fishing
Streamers like Woolly Buggers or Slump Busters can entice larger fish, especially early or late in the day. Focus on shaded areas and retrieve slowly.
Access Points
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Connected Lakes State Wildlife Area
- Description: A scenic stretch with excellent access to riffles and pools.
- Why Fish Here: Great for nymphing and occasional dry fly opportunities during hatches.
- Location: Off Highway 340, near Grand Junction, CO.
- Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Colorado River State Park (Fruita Section)
- Description: A productive section with slower runs and deeper holding water.
- Why Fish Here: Ideal for winter nymphing and streamer fishing.
- Location: West of Grand Junction, near Fruita, CO.
- Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
James M. Robb Colorado River State Park (Island Acres Section)
- Description: A less-crowded area with diverse water types, from riffles to pools.
- Why Fish Here: Perfect for targeting trout in slower, deeper water during winter.
- Location: East of Grand Junction, near De Beque, CO.
- Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½
Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights
The lower Colorado River near Grand Junction offers extensive public access through state parks and designated wildlife areas. Be mindful of private property boundaries and stick to marked public areas. A valid Colorado fishing license is required, and catch-and-release practices are encouraged to preserve this unique fishery.
