Yampa River
Hatch Chart 2026

The Yampa River is a fishy contradiction—in all the right ways. Up top, it’s a chilled-out tailwater sneaking below Stagecoach Reservoir, where trout feed with the pickiness of a Parisian sommelier. Downstream, it morphs into a freestone party through Steamboat, bubbling with bugs and boulder pockets made for hopper-droppers and fast-paced foam lines.

Whether you're Euro-nymphing midges in cold spring currents or throwing Chubbies through the warm bends in July, the Yampa’s changing personality keeps anglers thinking—and catching.

It's a four-season river with wild flavor. And when the hatch is on, it’s on. Match it right, and you’ll wonder why you ever fished anywhere else.

• Tailwater perfection. Stagecoach tailwater is your go-to for consistent flows and fishable water year-round. Size down and get technical in the winter and early spring.
• Runoff relief. In May and June, when most rivers are blowing out, the tailwater stays fishable—midge and BWO game strong.
• Chubby season. July and August bring out the hoppers. Throw big foam flies along grassy banks in downtown Steamboat for explosive eats.
• Evening magic. Caddis hatches can be lights-out in the last hour of light. Pack headlamps and hit the soft water with a double dry rig.
• Streamer days. Come fall, brown trout turn bold. Strip something ugly and articulated through the bends.