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The Yampa River, a tailwater gem especially in sections near Stagecoach Reservoir and Chuck Lewis State Wildlife Area, is fishing exceptionally well. Midges and Blue-Winged Olives are hatching steadily, giving you plenty of opportunities for surface action. Whether you're nymphing or stripping streamers for aggressive browns, this river is primed for a productive day on the water, with autumn colors only adding to the experience.
Updated: 11/25/2025
The Yampa is cold but steady, with clear flows and trout settling deep into their winter lies. Early hours are slow, but once the sun reaches the water, small midges get moving and fish slide into softer seams. Sight fishing windows are short but real if you stay low and move quietly along the edges. You’ll work for every eat, but the river is giving up consistent fish to anglers who stay patient. Expect tiny flies, light tippet, and quiet water all week.
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Conditions Summary
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Flow: 299 CFS
Water Temp: Low 30s
Air Temp: 29 to 48
Clarity: Clear
Crowds: Low
Best Window: 11 am to 3 pm
5 Day Weather Forecast
Sun: 29 to 36, light rain
Mon: 25 to 42, snow
Tue: 30 to 45, clouds
Wed: 31 to 48, rain
Thu: 28 to 44, clouds
Top Flies in Your Box.
Winter patterns reign. Midges and micro baetis dominate, with streamers a niche play under cloud cover.
Hatch Chart for November
Primary: Midges
Black Beauty, Top Secret Midge, Mercury Midge
Secondary: Baetis
RS2, WD40, Barrs BWO
Tertiary: Winter Stones
Micro Stone, Little Black Stone
Pro Rig of the Week
Yampa Winter Soft-Edge Double Midge Rig
10 ft 5x
Top fly: size 20 Mercury Midge
Dropper: size 22 Black Beauty
Light micro shot
Indicator set shallow over soft edge water and slow winter seams
Fishing Type Scores
Dry Fly: ⭐⭐
Nymphing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Streamer: ⭐⭐⭐
Access Points
Botanic Park Stretch
Gentle flows and predictable winter holding water.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
5th Street Bridge Area
Deeper green runs with good midday nymphing.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Downstream Meadows
Wide soft water, easier wading, great for beginners.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Local Regulations and Notes
Artificial flies only
Some shelf ice in shaded sections
Flows stable and clear
Wading can be slick
Expect very light pressure this week
FAQ
Q: Can I fish dries on the Yampa in late November?
A: Only around midday and only small midges.
Q: Are streamers worth throwing?
A: Yes, but only under clouds or in deeper buckets.
Q: Best tippet for this week?
A: 5x or 6x for the smallest midges.
Q: Is this a good river for beginners right now?
A: The meadows and lower-town runs are perfect for learning winter drifts.
Q: Any closures?
A: No active closures. Just watch for ice on banks.
Q: How long should I fish each run?
A: Slow water requires slow fishing. Stay longer than you think.
Post Fishing Stop
Storm Peak Brewing, Steamboat Springs
A laid-back locals’ brewery with big tables, mellow crowds, and solid post-river vibes. Order the Chowder IPA or the Money Trees Pale Ale and warm up while you review your day on the Yampa.
