Yampa River Fly Fishing Report Near Steamboat | Modern Reports for Modern Anglers

The Yampa River is 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.

Yampa River – Near Steamboat Springs

Fly Fishing Report | May 28, 2025

Runoff is surging, but if you're willing to play the edges and read the water, the Yampa is still in the game. Flows are up, but so are the trout—tucked tight to the banks and eating with attitude when you give them something worth chasing. Mid-day hatches are sparse but meaningful. This is a week for patience, heavy nymph rigs, and swing-for-the-fence streamer work when the clouds roll in. No promises, but no skunks either—just the kind of river that rewards time on the water.

Listen to the Podcast!

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 1650 CFS at Steamboat
• Water Temp: 49–51°F
• Air Temp: Highs in the mid 60s
• Clarity: Slightly stained but fishable
• Best Time to Fish: 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM

River Flow Chart

[Insert current flow image or chart placeholder]

Source: USGS – Yampa River near Steamboat Springs

Yampa Hatch Chart

Top 3 Flies for the Month

• Dry Fly: Blue Wing Olive (#18–22) – Effective during overcast afternoons in slower seams.
• Nymph: RS2 (#20–22) – Productive when fished in tandem with a small midge pattern.
• Streamer: Mini Leech (#10–12) – Strip through deeper runs, especially during early morning or late evening.
  ​

   

  Tips Fly Fishing on the Yampa River

  • Seasonal Tip: Higher flows mean faster edges. Fish close, tight, and heavy.
  • Dry Fly: Risers are limited but active mid-day—especially near structure.
  • Nymphing: Lead with a stonefly and trail a soft emerger. Fish deep seams and eddies.
  • Streamer Fishing: Cloud cover helps. Fish the banks early or swing into slower back channels.

​

Access Points

Rotary Park:

• Description: Easy access with parking and trails.
• Why Fish Here: Consistent flows and structure make it a reliable nymphing zone.
• Location: [Google Maps Link]
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐​

Fetcher Park:

• Description: Family-friendly area with open spaces.
• Why Fish Here: Offers a mix of riffles and pockets; moderate hike.
• Location: [Google Maps Link]
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐​

Chuck Lewis State Wildlife Area:

• Description: Scenic area with diverse water types.
• Why Fish Here: Less pressured water with diverse structure.
• Location: [Google Maps Link]
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐​

🔥 Hot Spots

• Rotary Park Tailouts: Great for nymphing and occasional risers.
• Bridge Pools near Fetcher Park: Consistently productive; watch for subtle rises.
• Deep Runs at Chuck Lewis: Ideal for streamer fishing during low-light conditions.​

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

• Fishing: Artificial flies and lures only; catch and release is encouraged.
• Access: Be aware of private property boundaries and respect signage.
• Wildlife: Observe local wildlife and adhere to any trail closures or reroutes.​

FAQ on this Spot

Is the Yampa River fishable right now?
Yes, but selectively. Avoid the closed tailwater below Stagecoach. Focus on Chuck Lewis and town stretches where flows are high but fishable.

What flies are working best this week?
Big rubber legs, Pheasant Tails, Barr’s Emergers, BWOs if you see noses up, and streamers like Mini Dungeons in dirty seams.

Where can I fish during high water?
Focus on soft edges, flooded willows, and bank water. The fish aren’t in the middle—they’re tucked tight and shallow.