Yampa River Fly Fishing Report

The Yampa River is in prime fall form this October! Flows are hovering around 72-100 cfs, and water temperatures are a crisp 60°F, making the trout active and hungry. This 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.

October 2024 Fly Fishing Report: Yampa River

Current Conditions

• Flow Rate: 72-100 cfs
• Water Temperature: 60°F
• Clarity: Clear
• Best Times: Mid-morning to early afternoon

Hatches & Recommended Flies

Nymphs

• Pheasant Tail (#16-18): Great for imitating mayfly nymphs in riffles and deep runs.
• Zebra Midge (#20-22): Perfect for those slow-moving pools where trout are feeding near the bottom.
• Pat’s Rubber Legs (#10-12): Use this fly for targeting deeper sections and more aggressive trout.

Dry Flies

• Blue-Winged Olive (#18-22): Perfect for targeting rising trout during those afternoon hatches.
• Parachute Adams (#16-20): A versatile dry that works in both fast riffles and slower pools.
• Elk Hair Caddis (#14-16): A great option for dry-dropper setups in faster-moving sections.

Streamers

• Sculpzilla (#6-8): Ideal for pulling big browns out of deep pools and undercut banks.
• Woolly Bugger (#6-8): Effective for working deeper water or along the riverbanks.
• Mini Dungeon (#6): Great for aggressive fall trout looking for a bigger meal.

Fishing Tactics on the Yampa River

• Nymphing: The cooler water makes nymphing highly effective. Try a Pheasant Tail or Zebra Midge paired with a small dropper in deeper runs and riffles.
• Streamer Fishing: Fall means streamer time. Cast streamers like Sculpzillas and Woolly Buggers near structure or undercut banks to target the big browns.
• Dry-Dropper Setup: A Caddis or BWO dry fly paired with a small nymph like a Zebra Midge is ideal for covering both surface and subsurface feeders.

Access Points

• Stagecoach Tailwater: Known for its consistent flows and productive fishing year-round, this section is a must for any angler.
• Chuck Lewis State Wildlife Area: With easy access and excellent public water, this area is perfect for wading and offers good opportunities for both dries and nymphs.
• Downtown Steamboat Springs: Fish right through town for a mix of deeper pools and riffles, with plenty of access points.