%20(600%20x%201200%20px)%20(800%20x%20800%20px)%20(800%20x%20300%20px)%20(2).png?width=200&height=75&name=Copy%20of%20Copy%20of%20Rise%20Beyond%20Logo%20(250%20x%20150%20px)%20(600%20x%201200%20px)%20(800%20x%20800%20px)%20(800%20x%20300%20px)%20(2).png)
%20(600%20x%201200%20px)%20(800%20x%20800%20px)%20(800%20x%20300%20px)%20(2).png?width=800&height=300&name=Copy%20of%20Copy%20of%20Rise%20Beyond%20Logo%20(250%20x%20150%20px)%20(600%20x%201200%20px)%20(800%20x%20800%20px)%20(800%20x%20300%20px)%20(2).png)
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.
.png?width=1120&height=630&name=Colorado%20Stream%20Fly%20Fishing%20Reports%20(65).png)
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.
.png?width=1080&height=1080&name=New%20Amazon%20Listing%20Images%20-%20Streams%2c%20Hoppers%20and%20Dries%20(9).png)
.png?width=50&height=50&name=Untitled%20design%20(33).png)
Tymothe Meskel is an avid fly fisherman who spends every week out on the water, rain, shine, or snow. He is an outdoor enthusiast who shares their experiences, tips, and insights on this fly fishing blog. With a wealth of knowledge about various techniques, equipment, and fly patterns, he helps anglers of all skill levels improve their fishing game. Join Tymothe on this journey as he uncover the joys of fly fishing and inspire others to appreciate the wilderness and preserve our natural resources.
Comments