FISHING REPORT: COLORADO RIVER
OVERVIEW
The Colorado River originates in Rocky Mountain National Park. We generally fish the sections from Gore Canyon to the town of Rifle bridge. The Colorado is generally a wider and slower river with some faster canyon stretches and excellent hatches and beautiful scenery along the river corridor. The sections below Glenwood Springs are the first to be available in the early season for float fishing. As the spring gives way to summer the focus shifts from Glenwood Springs and Dotsero, upstream to State Bridge and just below Gore Canyon and the Pumphouse boat launch. The Colorado offers more remote stretches of water and a slower pace to the day with an opportunity to view wildlife and unique geology along the way.
Temperature
Discharge
Reporter: Brett Elkman
Report Date: April 26, 2024
Current Conditions: The Colorado River flows are up. The water is still cold on the Upper C but the fishing is starting to pick up. With the fluctuations, the river will take on many colors, especially the Lower C and it has been off color to dirty. With the increased flows its a good time to throw Stoneflies, worms and Caddis fly nymphs. There are still some Midges, Baetis and BWO's. The streamer bite is picking up. As it warms we are seeing some action on top. When this happens, extended body baetis patterns are working well. ATTENTION FISHERMAN: Rainbow Trout are starting to spawn so be aware and dont fish to them. Look for closure signs on the Lower C
KEEP EM WET: Please follow the Keep Em Wet philosophy and keep the fish wet. If you must take a photo, leave the fish in the water.
Guide Tip: Keep your rod tip almost in the water when stripping your streamer back in .Hatches: Midges, Baetis, BWO
Recommended Flies:NYMPHS: Pats Rubber Leg 6-12, Zebra Midges Blk/red 16-18, 2 Bit Hooker 14-18, Rainbow Warriors 18-22, Top Secret Midge 18-22
DRIES: Garcias Mini Mayfly 16-22, Griffiths Gnat 18-22, Parachute Adams 18-22, Purple Para Adams 14-18, BWO Comparadun 18-22
STREAMERS: IT IS THAT TIME - Sex Dungeons, Wedgeheads, Black Heisenburgs, Sculpzilla, Rusty T, Double Thin Mint, Goldie