Fishing Report: Colorado River - Upper Colorado Near Kremmling

Welcome to the Upper Colorado Near Kremmling, where the trout are hungry, and the water’s as wild as your casting arm! Flowing at a mellow pace between Kremmling and Parshall, this section is a fly fisher’s dream with its mix of slow runs, gentle riffles, and deep pockets perfect for sneaky nymphing or swinging streamers. You won’t need a heavy rig here; just pack your finesse and patience because the browns and rainbows are out in full force.

October Fishing Report: Upper Colorado River (Pumphouse)

Current River Conditions

October on the Upper Colorado near Kremmling is a true autumn angler’s paradise. The river’s steady flow at 600-800 CFS creates perfect wading and floating conditions, while clear water and cool temperatures between 50-55°F keep trout actively feeding through the day. Vibrant fall colors line the banks, making the scenery as captivating as the fishing.

The browns are preparing to spawn, and with the rainbows also actively feeding, the river is alive with opportunities. Late morning through mid-afternoon has been the sweet spot, with aggressive hits on streamers and steady action on nymphs and dries during Blue Wing Olive hatches. Get ready for some truly spectacular fall fishing!

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 600-800 CFS
• Water Temperature: 50-55°F
• Clarity: Clear
• Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon

River Flow Chart

source: Colorado Divison of Resources Station Flow Report

Top 3 Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Parachute Adams (#18-22) – Use on cloudy afternoons when Blue Wing Olive hatches are most active.
• Nymph: Pheasant Tail (#16-20) – Effective in riffles and seams; pair with a larger attractor for a two-fly rig.
• Streamer: Olive Woolly Bugger (#6-10) – Swing or strip through deeper pools for aggressive pre-spawn strikes.
  
  

Tips for Fly Fishing on the Upper Colorado

Seasonal Tip
With browns entering pre-spawn mode, October is a top month for streamer fishing. Big, bold presentations in deeper water will bring out the most aggressive strikes.

Dry Fly
Afternoon Blue Wing Olive hatches are still bringing trout to the surface. Look for fish sipping in the riffles, and try a Parachute Adams or BWO dry in sizes #18-22 on cloudy days.

Nymphing
A two-fly nymph rig is highly effective here. Use a Pat’s Rubber Legs as the lead fly with a smaller Blue Wing Olive nymph, like an RS2, as a trailer. This setup covers both riffles and slower pools.

Streamer Fishing
The big browns are out, so make use of streamers like Woolly Buggers or Sculpzillas. Swing them through the deeper pools, or strip them along undercut banks to provoke strong takes.

Access Points

Pumphouse Recreation Area:

• Description: This is the main access point for the Upper Colorado River, known for its easy entry to the water. There’s a boat ramp, parking, and camping facilities available.

• Why Fish Here: It’s the starting point for many float trips, but also offers excellent walk-and-wade fishing. The water here has long riffles, pools, and excellent nymphing opportunities.

• Location: Just off Trough Road, near Kremmling, CO.

• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Radium Recreation Site

• Description: Located downstream from Pumphouse, this site provides both camping and river access, with a boat launch for float trips.

• Why Fish Here: The deeper pools and braided channels in this stretch make it great for streamer fishing and targeting larger trout.

• Location: Along Trough Road, a bit further downstream from the Pumphouse area.

• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

State Bridge

• Description: A popular spot for both wading and launching float trips, State Bridge offers good access to a more remote section of the river.

• Why Fish Here: Known for its larger trout and more challenging waters, this section is ideal for more experienced anglers looking for solitude.

• Location: Along Highway 131 near Bond, CO.

• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Two Bridges

• • Description: Another popular float trip launch point, but with plenty of access for wade fishing as well.

  • Why Fish Here: This area offers a mix of riffles, runs, and pools, making it great for anglers targeting different water types.
  • Location: Located near Bond, CO, along Highway 131.
  • Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

The Upper Colorado flows through a mix of public and private lands, so please respect access points and posted signs. Pumphouse, Radium, and State Bridge offer reliable public access, while other sections may cross private property. Be mindful of private land rights, and use only designated areas for entry and exit.