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.

Colorado River Fishing Report – Near Kremmling – December 2024

The Colorado River near Kremmling is a winter angler’s dream, offering peaceful waters and breathtaking views of the Gore Range. With flows holding steady at 400-500 CFS, the river provides excellent wading conditions and clear water for targeting wild browns and rainbows. While the cold water temperatures, ranging from 34-38°F, slow trout activity, fish remain concentrated in deeper pools and slower runs, making nymphing the go-to technique.

Late morning to mid-afternoon offers the best chance to connect with feeding trout as the day warms slightly. Midges dominate the menu, though larger fish can be tempted with streamers fished slowly through deep water. Whether you’re nymphing the riffles or swinging a streamer along the banks, this stretch delivers classic Colorado winter fly fishing with plenty of solitude.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 400-500 CFS
• Water Temperature: 34-38°F
• Clarity: Clear
• Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
• Current Conditions Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½ (3.5/5) – Peaceful and productive with technical demands in cold conditions.

River Flow Chart

Colorado River Hatch Chart (Near Kremmling)

Top 3 Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Griffith’s Gnat (#20-24) – Sparse hatches in slower water can bring fish to the surface.
• Nymph: Zebra Midge (#20-24) – A consistent producer in deeper runs and seams.
• Streamer: Olive Woolly Bugger (#8-10) – Slow retrieves can coax strikes from larger trout.
  
  

Tips Fly Fishing on the Colorado River Near Kremmling

Seasonal Tip
Cold weather means slower fish metabolism, so focus on deep, slow-moving pools and present your flies with patience and precision.

Dry Fly
Look for midge hatches during the warmest parts of the day. Target calm pockets and tailouts for sporadic risers.

Nymphing
A two-fly rig featuring a Zebra Midge and Black Beauty is highly effective. Add weight to get your flies into the feeding lanes of deeper runs.

Streamer Fishing
Streamers like Woolly Buggers or small leech patterns work well in slower water. Cast near structure and retrieve slowly.

Access Points

Pumphouse Recreation Area

• Description: A well-known section with riffles, runs, and pools perfect for wading anglers.
• Why Fish Here: Consistent trout activity and a mix of water types.
• Location: Off Trough Road, near Kremmling, CO.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Radium Area

• Description: A scenic stretch offering access to slower runs and deep pools.
• Why Fish Here: Great for winter nymphing and occasional streamer opportunities.
• Location: South of Kremmling, along Trough Road.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Gore Canyon

• Description: A rugged, less-visited section for adventurous anglers.
• Why Fish Here: Technical fishing with a chance to target larger trout in remote waters.
• Location: Near the Pumphouse Recreation Area.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

The Colorado River near Kremmling offers public access through sections managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Respect private property boundaries and always use designated access points. A valid Colorado fishing license is required, and catch-and-release practices are encouraged to preserve this thriving fishery.