Quick Info
Best waters: South Platte, Frying Pan, Arkansas, Gunnison. Peak times: Morning and evening hatches. Summer hatches: PMDs, caddis, stoneflies, hoppers. License required: Colorado fishing license (available online).
Colorado boasts over 9,000 miles of trout streams and 2,000 lakes, including some of the finest fly fishing in North America. The state's "Gold Medal" designation identifies waters with exceptional trout populations - and Colorado has more Gold Medal waters than anywhere else.
Summer brings prime conditions after spring runoff subsides. Rivers clear, flows stabilize, and prolific insect hatches bring trout to the surface. Morning and evening are magic hours - PMDs, caddis, and stoneflies trigger aggressive feeding. Midday dry fly fishing with hoppers and other terrestrials can be equally productive.
Gold Medal Waters
South Platte River has multiple Gold Medal sections from Denver into the mountains. Cheesman Canyon is legendary among fly fishers - technical fishing for large, wary trout that have seen every fly pattern. Expect educated fish and challenging conditions.
Frying Pan River near Basalt is a famous tailwater with year-round fishing and incredible hatches. Trophy rainbow and brown trout draw anglers from across the country. It's consistently ranked among America's best trout streams.
Arkansas River offers 102 miles of Gold Medal water - brown trout heaven. Diverse access from Leadville to Canon City means you can always find a stretch to yourself. Salida is the hub, with fly shops and guides who know every riffle.
Gunnison River is wild western water. The Black Canyon section is bucket-list fishing in dramatic scenery. Large fish, challenging access, and fewer crowds than Front Range waters reward those willing to make the drive.
Summer Fishing Tips
Match the hatch. PMDs, caddis, and stoneflies dominate summer. Terrestrials - hoppers, ants, beetles - work well midday when aquatic hatches slow. Local fly shops know exactly what's working and will help you match conditions.
Time your outings. Morning and evening produce the best dry fly action. Midday fish often go deep and require nymphing. Adjust your tactics to conditions - the same river fishes differently at different times of day.
Consider a guide. Local guides know current conditions, hatches, and access points. Worth the investment for unfamiliar waters. Many offer half and full day trips for all skill levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a guide?
Not required, but helpful on unfamiliar water. Guides provide local knowledge, handle logistics, and accelerate your learning curve. Solo exploration works fine once you know an area.
What about regulations?
Colorado fishing license required - available online instantly. Many Gold Medal waters are catch and release, artificial only. Check regulations before you fish - they vary by section.
Is private water worth paying for?
Colorado has excellent private water operations with larger fish and guaranteed access. Worth trying once if you want trophy fish and solitude. Public water offers great fishing too - just more company.
What gear do I need?
A 9-foot 5-weight rod covers most situations. Bring a selection of dry flies, nymphs, and streamers. Waders extend your range but aren't always necessary. Fly shops rent gear if you're traveling light.