Colorado is renowned for its fantastic fly fishing opportunities. With its diverse aquatic habitats and stunning scenery, it's a dream destination for anglers. Here are the top five fly fishing rivers in the state, each offering unique experiences and abundant fish populations.
1. South Platte River
The South Platte River is one of Colorado's most famous fly fishing destinations, known for its trophy-sized trout and scenic landscapes.
- Dream Stream: This section is renowned for its large trout, especially during spring and fall spawning seasons. It's a must-visit for those seeking trophy fish. Learn more at Colorado Parks & Wildlife: https://cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Pages/Fishing.aspx.
- Deckers: Offers easy access and a plentiful trout population, making it ideal for a productive day on the water. The clear waters and diverse fish make it a favorite spot for many anglers.
- Eleven Mile Canyon: This scenic section is perfect for both nymph and dry fly fishing, with clear waters and beautiful surroundings that enhance the fishing experience.
Top 3 South Platte River Tips:
- Dream Stream: Best visited in spring and fall for trophy trout.
- Deckers: Ideal for accessible and productive fishing.
- Eleven Mile Canyon: Excellent for nymph and dry fly fishing.
2. Arkansas River
Stretching over 100 miles, the Arkansas River is a premier fly fishing destination known for its healthy population of brown trout.
- Salida to Buena Vista: This section offers numerous access points and stunning mountain views, making it a productive and picturesque area for fishing. Learn more at Orvis Arkansas River Guide: https://www.orvis.com/arkansas-river-colorado-fly-fishing.html.
- Bighorn Sheep Canyon: This area provides excellent fishing opportunities with fewer crowds, making it perfect for those seeking solitude and larger fish.
- Pueblo Tailwater: Known for being ice-free in winter, this section offers year-round fishing opportunities, making it a reliable spot for anglers throughout the year.
Top 3 Arkansas River Tips:
- Salida to Buena Vista: Accessible and scenic with numerous access points.
- Bighorn Sheep Canyon: Offers solitude and the chance to catch big fish.
- Pueblo Tailwater: Year-round fishing opportunities, especially productive in winter.
3. Gunnison River
The Gunnison River is famous for its large rainbow and brown trout and offers some of the most remote and rewarding fly fishing experiences in Colorado.
- Black Canyon: This remote section is known for its challenging access, but those who make the effort are rewarded with big fish and breathtaking views. Learn more at Fishing Booker Gunnison River Guide: https://fishingbooker.com/destination/us/river/gunnison.
- Gunnison Gorge: A fantastic spot for fly fishing combined with whitewater rafting, ideal for adventure seekers looking to experience both fishing and rafting.
- Lower Gunnison: Easier to access, this section is particularly productive in spring and fall, offering excellent fishing opportunities with less effort.
Top 3 Gunnison River Tips:
- Black Canyon: Challenging access but worth it for big fish and stunning views.
- Gunnison Gorge: Great for combining fishing with whitewater rafting.
- Lower Gunnison: Excellent fishing in spring and fall with easier access.
4. Roaring Fork River
The Roaring Fork River is a freestone stream that offers excellent fishing from Aspen to Glenwood Springs.
- Upper Roaring Fork: Near Aspen, this section is perfect for dry fly fishing during the summer, providing anglers with a chance to catch fish in a beautiful setting.
- Middle Roaring Fork: Around Basalt, this section offers a mix of nymphing and dry fly opportunities, catering to different fishing styles.
- Lower Roaring Fork: Near Glenwood Springs, it’s known for its larger fish and productive waters, making it a top spot for serious anglers.
Top 3 Roaring Fork River Tips:
- Upper Roaring Fork: Ideal for summer dry fly fishing.
- Middle Roaring Fork: Great for both nymphing and dry flies.
- Lower Roaring Fork: Known for larger fish and highly productive waters.
Learn more at Colorado Trout Hunters Roaring Fork Guide: https://coloradotrouthunters.com/roaring-fork-river/.
5. Colorado River
The Colorado River offers a diverse range of fly fishing opportunities, from small stream fishing to larger river adventures.
- Upper Colorado River: Near Granby, this section is excellent for both nymph and dry fly fishing, offering anglers a chance to catch various trout species.
- Middle Colorado River: Around Glenwood Springs, this section provides productive fishing with the added bonus of beautiful canyon scenery.
- Lower Colorado River: Known for its larger fish and varied fishing conditions, making it a versatile spot for different fly fishing techniques.
Top 3 Colorado River Tips:
- Upper Colorado River: Great for both nymph and dry fly fishing.
- Middle Colorado River: Productive fishing with scenic canyon views.
- Lower Colorado River: Known for larger fish and versatile fishing conditions.