.png?width=300&height=100&name=Rise%20Beyond%20Logo%2010.29.24%20300x100px%20(2).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")
.png)
The Best Fly Fishing Spots in Colorado Right Now - Updated April 23, 2025
Every fly angler knows the old rule: timing is everything. And in Colorado, timing gets complicated—between snowmelt, hatch cycles, and water temps, finding the spot can feel like searching for dry ground during runoff season. That’s why we did the homework for you.
Here’s your real-time guide to the best places to fly fish in Colorado today, based on current flows, hatch activity, water clarity, and local shop reports.
Listen to the Podcast!
.png?width=800&height=533&name=fly%20fishing%20in%20colorado%20(84).png)
Arkansas River Fly Fishing Report – Best Conditions from Salida to Canon City
- Flow Rate: 345–378 CFS
- Water Temperature: High 40s to Low 50s°F
- Current Hatch: Blue Wing Olives (BWOs)
- Fishing Style: Dry-dropper rigs, nymphing in deeper pools
The Arkansas is fishing lights-out right now. Water clarity is good, flows are in that pre-runoff sweet spot, and BWOs are blanketing the riffles most afternoons. Focus your efforts from late morning into the early evening.
Hot Flies: Parachute BWO #18, Golden Stone Nymph #12, RS2 #20
South Platte River at Deckers – Consistent Spring Fly Fishing
- Flow Rate: 170 CFS
- Water Clarity: Excellent
- Current Hatch: Midges and BWOs
- Fishing Style: Nymphing early, dries mid-day
Deckers is always technical, but spring is when the river shines. Fish are active and feeding across multiple water types. Sight fishing is possible if you’re stealthy. Expect picky trout—presentation matters more than pattern.
Hot Flies: Zebra Midge #20–22, BWO Sparkle Dun #18, Barr’s Emerger #20
Waterton Canyon Fly Fishing Conditions – A Technical Tailwater Close to Denver
- Flow Rate: 45–60 CFS
- Water Temperature: Low 40s°F
- Hatches: Midges in the morning, BWOs mid-afternoon
- Fishing Style: Light tippet, long leaders, stealthy approach
If you’re looking for a quick half-day trip near Denver, Waterton Canyon is holding steady. It’s clear, cold, and rewarding for anglers who play it slow and smart. Great for a minimalist setup and a quiet afternoon.
Colorado River Fly Fishing – Best Conditions Near Glenwood Springs
- Flow Rate: 1,870 CFS
- Clarity: Clear but starting to color up
- Active Hatches: Midges, BWOs, and early-season caddis
- Fishing Style: Streamers, nymphing, or swinging soft hackles
This stretch is prime right now—big water, but still manageable. Wade with caution or float if you can. Look for fish on inside bends and soft seams. Overcast skies and rising flows mean streamer junkies should get excited.
Animas River Fly Fishing Report – Year-Round Gold Medal Water in Durango
- Fishing Type: Deep nymphing, slow swing, euro rigs
- Access: Excellent walk/wade options in-town
- Current Conditions: Good clarity, moderate flows
If you’re down south, the Animas is a solid bet. Brown and rainbow trout are active with midges and BWOs present. Bonus points for easy access in Durango and fewer crowds than you’d find up north.
Eagle River Fly Fishing – Great Pre-Runoff Conditions Right Now
- Flow Rate: 260 CFS
- Temperature: Mid-40s°F
- Hatch Activity: BWOs, midges
- Fishing Style: Nymphing with small bugs, dry-dropper setups
This is the last great window before the Eagle blows out. BWOs are hatching daily, and trout are feeding aggressively in mid-depth runs. Get here before the snowmelt hits hard.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fly Fishing in Colorado This Week
What’s the best time of day to fly fish in Colorado right now?
Between 10 AM and 3 PM. Most hatches are strongest in the early afternoon—especially Blue Wing Olives.
What flies are working best right now?
BWOs (both emergers and adults), Zebra Midges, RS2s, golden stonefly nymphs, and balanced leeches for stillwater.
Which river is best near Denver today?
Deckers and Waterton Canyon on the South Platte offer the most consistent and accessible fishing for a half-day escape.
Is runoff starting yet?
It’s knocking on the door. Higher elevation freestones are still good for the next week or two, but conditions will change fast. Tailwaters and stillwater will be your best bet once flows spike.
Want more river-by-river updates every week?
Subscribe to the Rise Beyond River Report for expert breakdowns, fly recommendations, and access points.
Need the right flies for these hatches?
Shop the RiseBeyond Match the Hatch Fly Boxes
