---
title: Lower Colorado River Fly Fishing Report Near Grand Junction 1.23.2025
description: Winter fly fishing on the Lower Colorado River near Grand Junction offers rewarding opportunities with fewer crowds, clear water, and active trout. Discover the best flies and tips for success.
image: https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/hubfs/Lower%20Section%20Near%20Grand%20Junction%20-%20Calm%20waters%20of%20the%20Colorado%20River%20near%20Grand%20Junction%20under%20a%20vast%20sky.png
---

[Skip to content](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/fishing-report-lower-colorado-river-near-grand-junction-12#main-content)

This is a search field with an auto-suggest feature attached.

- There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.

[![Rise Beyond Fly Fishing Co. logo featuring a cowboy riding a large trout, holding a fishing rod in one hand and a camera in the other, with stylized text in a rugged, outdoor-themed font](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Copy%20of%20Rise%20Beyond%20Logo%2012.31.24%20(300%20x%20100%20px).png?width=300&height=100&name=Copy%20of%20Rise%20Beyond%20Logo%2012.31.24%20(300%20x%20100%20px).png "Rise Beyond Fly Fishing Co. logo featuring a cowboy riding a large trout, holding a fishing rod in one hand and a camera in the other, with stylized text in a rugged, outdoor-themed font")](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/)

- [Reports](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/articles/home) 
    - [All Reports](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/articles/home)
    - [Real-Time App (Beta)](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/river-whisper)
    - [South Platte River](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/south-platte-fly-fishing-report) 
          - [Dream Stream (Charlie Meyers SWA)](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/dream-stream-fishing-report)
          - [South Platte at Cheesman Canyon](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/fishing-report-south-platte-river-at-cheesman-canyon)
          - [South Platte at Deckers](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/fishing-report-south-platte-river-at-deckers-15)
          - [South Platte at Waterton Canyon](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/whispers-and-wind-late-fall-fly-fishing-in-waterton-canyon)
    - [Arkansas River](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/arkansas-river-report)
    - [Gunnison River](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/gunnison-river-fishing-report)
    - [Colorado River](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/fishing-report-upper-colorado-river-near-kremmling)
    - [Blue River at Silverthorne](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/fishing-report-blue-river-colorado-silverthorne-dillon-dam)
    - [Eagle River](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/eagle-river-fly-fishing-report-fly-fishing)
    - [Fryingpan River](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/frying-pan-river-fly-fishing-report-april-modern-reports-for-modern-anglers)
    - [Roaring Fork](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/roaring-fork-river-fly-fishing-report)
    - [Yampa River](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/yampa-river-fly-fishing-report-near-steamboat-springs)
- [GuideBank](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/guidebank) 
    - [Book a Guide](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/guidebank)
    - [How it Works](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/book-a-fly-fishing-guide-colorado)
    - [Angler Guarantee](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/guidebank-deposit-terms)
    - [For Shops & Outfitters](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/join-guidebank)
    - [Guide Code of Conduct](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/legal/terms-guidebank-suppliers)
- [Shop](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/) 
    - [Holiday Gifts](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/collections/frontpage)
    - [Flies](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/collections/dry-flies) 
          - [Dry Flies](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/collections/dry-flies)
          - [Nymphs](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/collections/nymphs)
          - [Terrestrials](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/collections/hoppers)
          - [Streamers](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/collections/streamers)
    - [Clothing](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/collections/rise-beyond-fly-fishing-t-shirts) 
          - [Holiday Gifts](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/collections/frontpage)
          - [T Shirts](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/collections/rise-beyond-fly-fishing-t-shirts)
          - [Hats](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/collections/rise-beyond-fly-fishing-hats)
          - [Hoodies](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/collections/rise-beyond-fly-fishing-sweatshirts)
    - [Accessories](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/collections/rise-beyond-fly-fishing-accessories) 
          - [Sock, Bags & Mugs](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/collections/rise-beyond-fly-fishing-accessories)
          - [Stickers](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/collections/rise-beyond-fly-fishing-stickers)
- Resources 
    - River Access Points 
          - [Colorado River Access Points](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/colorado-river-fishing-access-points)
          - [South Platte River Access Points](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/south-platte-river-fishing-access-point)
    - Hatch Charts 
          - [Colorado River Hatch Chart](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/colorado-river-hatch-chart)
          - [South Platte River Hatch Chart](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/south-platte-river-hatch-chart)
          - [Arkansas River Hatch Chart](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/arkansas-river-hatch-chart)
          - [Gunnison River Hatch Chart](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/gunnison-river-hatch-chart)
          - [Clear Creek Hatch Chart](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/clear-creek-hatch-chart)
          - [Yampa River Hatch Chart](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/yampa-river-hatch-chart)
          - [Blue River Hatch Chart](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blue-river-hatch-chart-crack-the-code-on-the-blue-river-hatch)
    - Podcast 
          - [On iHeart](https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-rise-beyond-colorado-fly-f-260316777/)
          - [On Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/show/2PbYHzUT6GQH4jccF85Xs0)
    - [Win Free Flies](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/win-free-flies)
    - [About Us](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/about-us)

- Search Search
  
  Search

- [Colorado River](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/colorado-river),
- [River Report](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/river-report),
- [Western Colorado](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/western-colorado)

# Lower Colorado River Fly Fishing Report Near Grand Junction 1.23.2025

- January 23, 2025

![Tymothe Meskel](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/hubfs/Untitled%20design%20(33).png)

[Tymothe Meskel](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/author/tymothe-meskel)

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. 

![Lower Section Near Grand Junction - Calm waters of the Colorado River near Grand Junction under a vast sky](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Lower%20Section%20Near%20Grand%20Junction%20-%20Calm%20waters%20of%20the%20Colorado%20River%20near%20Grand%20Junction%20under%20a%20vast%20sky.png?width=1080&height=1080&name=Lower%20Section%20Near%20Grand%20Junction%20-%20Calm%20waters%20of%20the%20Colorado%20River%20near%20Grand%20Junction%20under%20a%20vast%20sky.png)

The **Lower Colorado River near Grand Junction** is a winter angler’s playground with wide-open waters and stunning desert scenery. While the frigid temperatures can be a bit of a wake-up call, the trout here are still active, especially in the deeper runs and pools. This section offers a mix of rainbows and browns that reward patience and precise presentations.

Winter means fewer crowds and a chance to explore this often-overlooked section of the Colorado. With clear water and steady flows, it’s an ideal spot to test your nymphing game or swing a streamer for that trophy trout lurking in the depths.

Lower Colorado River Fly Fishing Report Near Grand Junction (1)

3:59

---

## Conditions Summary

![Guide Rating (800 x 175 px) (2)](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Guide%20Ratings/Guide%20Rating%20(800%20x%20175%20px)%20(2).png?width=800&height=175&name=Guide%20Rating%20(800%20x%20175%20px)%20(2).png)

- **Flow Rate**: 2,000-2,500 CFS
- **Water Temperature**: 38-42°F
- **Clarity**: Clear with slight tint
- **Best Times**: Late morning to mid-afternoon
- **Star Rating**: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Challenging but rewarding winter fishing)

---

### River Flow Chart

![](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image-png-Jan-23-2025-07-20-16-1990-PM.png?width=495&height=262&name=image-png-Jan-23-2025-07-20-16-1990-PM.png)

---

### Lower Colorado River Hatch Chart (Winter)

| Month | Primary Hatches | Effective Patterns |
| --- | --- | --- |
| December | Midges | Black Beauty (#20-24), Mercury Midge (#20-24) |
| January | Midges, Baetis | Top Secret Midge (#20-22), Blue Wing Olive (#18-20) |
| February | Midges, Baetis | Zebra Midge (#20-22), RS2 (#20-22) |

---

## Top 3 Flies for the Week

![Zebra Midge Black](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Zebra%20Midge%20Black.jpg?width=500&height=500&name=Zebra%20Midge%20Black.jpg)

- **Dry Fly**: Parachute BWO (#18-20) – Best on calm, sunny afternoons.
- **Nymph**: Zebra Midge (#20-24) – Reliable producer in slow and deep runs.
- **Streamer**: Olive Woolly Bugger (#8-10) – Swing through deeper pools to tempt aggressive browns.

---

### Tips Fly Fishing on the Lower Colorado

#### Seasonal Tip

Focus on fishing the warmest part of the day and target deep pools and seams where trout are conserving energy.

#### Dry Fly

Dry fly action is minimal in winter, but sunny afternoons may bring sporadic midge and Baetis hatches.

#### Nymphing

A two-fly rig with a midge and Baetis nymph is your best bet. Use enough weight to get your flies down quickly in deeper water.

#### Streamer Fishing

Swing or slowly strip small streamers near structure or deeper runs for opportunistic trout.

---

## **Access Points**

**![New Amazon Listing Images - Streams, Hoppers and Dries (11)-1](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/hs-fs/hubfs/New%20Amazon%20Listing%20Images%20-%20Streams%2c%20Hoppers%20and%20Dries%20(11)-1.jpg?width=590&height=590&name=New%20Amazon%20Listing%20Images%20-%20Streams%2c%20Hoppers%20and%20Dries%20(11)-1.jpg)**

##### 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.

 Blog Post

## Related Articles

[![Blue River Fly Fishing Report between Silverthorne and Green Mountain Reservoir. Updated hatch and river conditions, access points and pro guide intel. ](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/hubfs/image-png-Jan-09-2025-02-41-27-7043-PM.png)](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/fishing-report-blue-river-colorado-green-mountain-1.6.2025)

[Blue River](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/blue-river), [Lower Blue River](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/lower-blue-river), [River Report](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/river-report), [Western Colorado](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/western-colorado), [Breckenridge Fly Fishing](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/breckenridge-fly-fishing), [Blue River Fly Fishing Report](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/blue-river-fly-fishing-report)

### [Blue River Fly Fishing Report Near Green Mountain Reservoir 1.6.2025](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/fishing-report-blue-river-colorado-green-mountain-1.6.2025)

 January 7, 2025

 The Blue River below Green Mountain Reservoir is a classic Colorado tailwater known for its clear flows, consistent...

[Read more](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/fishing-report-blue-river-colorado-green-mountain-1.6.2025)

[![Angler fly fishing on the Blue River in Colorado, casting into clear, cold waters below the Dillon Reservoir, surrounded by mountain scenery](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/hubfs/image-png-Jan-23-2025-06-42-15-9924-PM.png)](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/fishing-report-blue-river-colorado-green-mountain-13)

[Blue River](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/blue-river), [Lower Blue River](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/lower-blue-river), [River Report](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/river-report), [Western Colorado](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/western-colorado), [Breckenridge Fly Fishing](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/breckenridge-fly-fishing), [Blue River Fly Fishing Report](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/blue-river-fly-fishing-report)

### [Blue River Fly Fishing Report Near Green Mountain Reservoir 1.21.2025](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/fishing-report-blue-river-colorado-green-mountain-13)

 January 21, 2025

 The Blue River below Green Mountain Reservoir is a classic Colorado tailwater known for its clear flows, consistent...

[Read more](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/fishing-report-blue-river-colorado-green-mountain-13)

[![Angler fly fishing on the Blue River in Colorado, casting into clear, cold waters below the Dillon Reservoir, surrounded by mountain scenery](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/hubfs/Blue%20River%20-%20The%20Blue%20Rivers%20turquoise%20waters%20set%20against%20a%20mountainous%20horizon.png)](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/fishing-report-blue-river-colorado-green-mountain-1.30.2025)

[Blue River](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/blue-river), [Lower Blue River](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/lower-blue-river), [River Report](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/river-report), [Western Colorado](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/western-colorado), [Breckenridge Fly Fishing](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/breckenridge-fly-fishing), [Blue River Fly Fishing Report](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/tag/blue-river-fly-fishing-report)

### [Blue River Fly Fishing Report Near Green Mountain Reservoir 1.30.2025](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/fishing-report-blue-river-colorado-green-mountain-1.30.2025)

 January 30, 2025

 The Blue River below Green Mountain Reservoir is a classic Colorado tailwater known for its clear flows, consistent...

[Read more](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/fishing-report-blue-river-colorado-green-mountain-1.30.2025)

 Check all articles

[![Rise Beyond Logo 10.29.24 300x100px (3)](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Rise%20Beyond%20Logo%2010.29.24%20300x100px%20(3).png?width=300&height=100&name=Rise%20Beyond%20Logo%2010.29.24%20300x100px%20(3).png "Rise Beyond Logo 10.29.24 300x100px (3)")](https://www.risebeyondflyfishing.com)

#### Wonder | Wander 

At Rise Beyond Fly Fishing, our mission is to equip you with the tools and expertise to confidently traverse the beautiful Colorado waters. Tread lightly, pack out your shit, and leave it better than it was without changing how it's supposed to be. Anything worth doing is worth overdoing. Moderation is for cowards. Enjoy the Rise. 

### Colorado Fly Fishing Spots & Hatch Charts

- [See Today’s River Reports](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/river-whisper)
- [South Platte Access](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/south-platte-river-fishing-access-points-archive)
- [Colorado River Access](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/south-platte-river-fishing-access-points-archive)
- [South Platte Hatch Chart](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/south-platte-river-fly-box)
- [Colorado River Hatch Chart](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/colorado-river-hatch-chart)
- [Clear Creek Hatch Chart](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/clear-creek-hatch-chart)
- [Blue River Hatch Chart](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blue-river-hatch-chart-crack-the-code-on-the-blue-river-hatch)
- [Yampa Hatch Chart](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/yampa-river-hatch-chart)
- [Arkansas Hatch Chart](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/arkansas-river-hatch-chart)
- [Gunnison Hatch Chart](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/gunnison-river-hatch-chart)

#### Colorado Fishing Reports

- [Waterton Canyon](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/south-platte-river-at-waterton-canyon-modern-reports-for-modern-anglers)
- [Cheesman Canyon](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/cheesman-canyon-fly-fishing-report)
- [Clear Creek](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/fishing-report-clear-creek-colorado)
- [Deckers](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/fishing-report-south-platte-river-at-deckers)
- [Dream Stream](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/dream-stream-fishing-report)
- [Poudre River](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/cache-la-poudre-river-fishing-report)
- [Yampa River](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/yampa-river-fly-fishing-report-near-steamboat-springs)
- [Blue River](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/fishing-report-blue-river-colorado-green-mountain)
- [Arkansas River](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/fishing-report-arkansas-river-middle-basin)

### Company & Resources

- [River Report Sign Up](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/the-river-report)
- [River Whisper App](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/river-whisper)
- [About Us](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/about-us)
- [Privacy Policy](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/privacy-policy)
- Terms and Conditions
- [Colorado Parks and Wildlife Resources](https://cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Pages/Fishing.aspx)
- [Spotify Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/2PbYHzUT6GQH4jccF85Xs0)
- [Audible Podcast](https://www.audible.com/podcast/Rise-Beyond-Colorado-Fly-Fishing-Report/B0DTQZWTB2)
- [iHeart Radio Podcast](https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-rise-beyond-colorado-fly-f-260316777/)

#### Shop Small Batch Flies

- [Subscription Fly Boxes](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/fly-box-subscription)
- [Nymphs](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/collections/nymphs)
- [Dry Flies](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/collections/dry-flies)
- [Terrestrials](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/collections/hoppers)
- [Streamers](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/collections/streamers)

---

- Terms and Services
- [Privacy Policy](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/privacy-policy)
- [Bantam.Digital](https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/Bantam.Digital)

 Powered by Bantam.Digital [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.instagram.com/risebeyondflyfishing/) [Follow us on LinkedIn](https://risebeyondflyfishing.shop/) [Follow us on Twitter](https://www.pinterest.com/risebeyondflyfishing/)

```json
{
  "@context" : "https://schema.org",
  "@type" : "BlogPosting",
  "author" : {
    "@type" : "Person",
    "name" : "Tymothe Meskel",
    "url" : "https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/author/tymothe-meskel"
  },
  "dateModified" : "2025-02-13T14:58:17.261Z",
  "datePublished" : "2025-01-23T08:45:00.000Z",
  "headline" : "Lower Colorado River Fly Fishing Report Near Grand Junction 1.23.2025",
  "image" : [ "https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/hubfs/Lower%20Section%20Near%20Grand%20Junction%20-%20Calm%20waters%20of%20the%20Colorado%20River%20near%20Grand%20Junction%20under%20a%20vast%20sky.png" ],
  "mainEntityOfPage" : {
    "@id" : "https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/blog/fishing-report-lower-colorado-river-near-grand-junction-12",
    "@type" : "WebPage"
  },
  "publisher" : {
    "@type" : "Organization",
    "logo" : {
      "@type" : "ImageObject",
      "url" : "https://risebeyondflyfishing.com/hubfs/Copy%20of%20Rise%20Beyond%20Logo%2012.31.24%20(300%20x%20100%20px).png"
    },
    "name" : "Rise Beyond"
  }
}
```