Winter Fly Fishing on the Upper Colorado Near Kremmling | Rise Beyond

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.

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The Upper Colorado near Kremmling in the winter is a peaceful, rewarding challenge. With cold, clear flows and little angler traffic, this stretch offers big fish, beautiful scenery, and solitude—if you can handle the cold. Trout are stacked in deep winter holding water, feeding selectively on midges, Baetis, and the occasional stonefly nymph.

Fishing slow and deep is key this time of year—drifting tiny midges and mayflies under an indicator will get the most eats. If you’re feeling ambitious, dead-drifted streamers or a well-placed leech pattern can wake up a sluggish brown. Stealth, patience, and the ability to adapt your presentation will make the difference between a skunk and a banner day.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 400-600 CFS (low but steady)
• Water Temperature: 34-38°F
• Clarity: Gin-clear
• Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
• Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5 – Solitude and big trout, but technical winter fishing)

River Flow Chart

Upper Colorado Hatch Chart

Top 3 Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Griffith’s Gnat (#20-22) – Rare, but possible if midges are clustering in slow eddies.
• Nymph: Jujubee Midge (#20-24) – Best for deep, slow winter drifts.
• Streamer: Black Sculpzilla (#6-8) – Dead-drifted or slow-jigged for aggressive browns.

Tips for Fly Fishing the Upper Colorado Near Kremmling

Seasonal Tip

Winter fish are hugging the bottom—get deep, stay slow, and make sure your drifts are drag-free.

Dry Fly

Expect minimal surface activity, but a few midges might bring up risers on warmer afternoons.

Nymphing

A two-fly nymph rig with midges, Baetis, and stoneflies will be your best bet. Adjust weight often to get into the strike zone.

Streamer Fishing

Dead-drifting or slowly twitching a leech or sculpin pattern can tempt a larger brown, but don’t expect aggressive chases.

Access Points

Pumphouse Recreation Area

• Description: The most popular access point, offering deep runs and riffles.
• Why Fish Here: Easy access, consistent flows, and plenty of holding water.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Radium Hot Springs Area

• Description: A mix of slower deep holes and moderate riffles, with less pressure than Pumphouse.
• Why Fish Here: More solitude, great nymphing water, and big brown trout potential.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

State Bridge Access

• Description: A larger, more remote section, with deeper holes and slower-moving winter water.
• Why Fish Here: Great streamer water and a shot at less-pressured fish.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

• Artificial flies and lures only in certain stretches—check local regulations.
• Private property markers: Watch for fence lines, posted signs, and private ranch access restrictions.
• Winter conditions can be harsh—expect snowy trails, icy riverbanks, and cold mornings.
• Catch-and-release recommended to maintain the wild trout population.

If you’re willing to put in the effort, the Upper Colorado near Kremmling is a fantastic winter fishery that rewards anglers with big, healthy trout and very little competition. Just bring your small flies, long leaders, and patience—these fish won’t make it easy.