Good morning, anglers, this is Artificial Lure with your April 18th, 2025, Colorado River fishing report.

Spring is rolling along the Colorado, and conditions are shaping up nicely for a top-notch day on the water. Flows below Glenwood Springs are up, currently around 2500 CFS, and rising due to spring melt. Expect clear water on cool nights, but a brown tinge if we’ve had a run of warm afternoons. Water temps are hovering around 47 degrees, with mid-morning air warming up into the low 50s. Skies are mostly clear, sunrise hit at 6:27 a.m. and you’ll have daylight until about 7:45 p.m.

Fishing activity has picked up in the last week, especially through the middle and lower stretches. Both wade and float anglers are reporting solid action, with the best bite running late morning through mid-afternoon as water temperatures rise and insect hatches intensify. Keep in mind, certain spawning closures remain in effect at Grizzly, Canyon, Castle, and Elk Creeks—signs are posted, so respect those off-limits areas.

Trout are the main stars right now, with hefty browns and rainbows being caught, especially between Glenwood Springs and Rifle. The Upper Colorado near Kremmling is delivering good numbers of rainbows and the occasional big brown, particularly in slower seams and deep runs. Anglers have also spotted the rare Colorado River cutthroat and, in the lower sections, even a few endangered Colorado pikeminnows recently turned up by survey crews—not a target, but a sign the river is healthy and diverse.

Hatch-wise, blue wing olives and midges are thick, with an early pulse of caddis and a few stoneflies showing up as well. Best patterns for nymphing include Pat’s Rubber Legs, beadhead pheasant tails, RS2s, zebra midges, and Prince nymphs in sizes 16–20. For dries, Parachute Adams, BWO comparaduns, and Griffith’s Gnats sized 18–22 will get looks when fish are rising, particularly on cloudy afternoons. The streamer bite is strong on overcast days or early and late—think Thin Mints, Sex Dungeons, and olive Slump Busters stripped deep along cutbanks and structure.

As for bait, artificial lures and flies are the ticket here, particularly as regulations restrict use of bait in many stretches. Stick to artificial flies and lures to stay legal and ethical.

Top hot spots today:
- The confluence of the Roaring Fork and Colorado at Two Rivers Park in Glenwood Springs has been a local favorite, offering easy access and good riffles.
- Grizzly Creek Access is less crowded and delivers strong nymphing action in pocket water.
- South Canyon Recreation Area and the riffles near New Castle hold big fish and see a bit less pressure.

Remember, handle those spawning rainbows gently and give them space. With flows rising and bugs hatching, today’s the day to string up the rod and chase some feisty Colorado River trout. Tight lines from Artificial Lure, and I’ll see you on the water.

Fishing report for April 16, 2025, from Artificial Lure, your local expert on all things rod and reel along the Colorado River corridor.

Sunrise hit at 6:27 a.m. and sunset will wrap up the day around 7:45 p.m. Weather’s classic springtime in the high country: expect highs in the low 50s, mild mornings, and a chance for gusty winds in the afternoon. Flows below Glenwood Springs are running strong at about 1,770 CFS and rising, with water temps near 47 degrees and good clarity most mornings. That means productive fishing, especially late morning through mid-afternoon when the bugs start to get busy[5][6].

Water is typically clearest after cool nights, but if we get a stretch of warm, sunny days, prepare for some color as snowmelt picks up. Clarity is essential—find those clear stretches and you’ll find feeding trout[2][6].

Fishing’s been downright good from Pumphouse through Glenwood Springs and on down toward New Castle and Rifle[1][5]. Nymphing remains the steadiest approach. Stonefly patterns like Pat’s Rubber Legs and Quill Jigs, trailed by midge or Blue Winged Olive nymphs (RS2, Zebra Midge) are the ticket. The blue-winged olive hatch is in full swing and you might even luck into some caddis action by week's end if the warm weather holds[5][6]. Dries like Parachute Adams, Griffith’s Gnat, or Elk Hair Caddis can get hits when fish are rising[1][6].

Streamer fishing is picking up fast—double down on articulated Thin Mints, Mini Dungeons, or bigger patterns like Sex Dungeons and Sculpzilla for a shot at big browns and rainbows. Strip those flies through deeper, slower runs and pockets, especially along the seams and in eddy water[1][4][6]. For the lure guys, big woolly buggers and classic spinners are turning some heads, especially early and late in the day[8].

Bait anglers see consistent action on catfish in the lower river using cut bait, livers, or nuggets—especially as water warms. You’ll still need to check local regulations, as some stretches are artificial flies and lures only[8].

The river has produced browns and rainbows in good numbers, with a few surprise cutthroats, and the rare Colorado pikeminnow spotted in the lower reaches—a reminder not to target those endangered fish[3][7][10].

Hot spots today include Grizzly Creek confluence for clear water and mixed bug activity, South Canyon pools for a shot at hefty fish, and Two Rivers Park in Glenwood Springs for steady action and easy access. The area near New Castle riffles is another favorite for wade anglers working nymphs[5][6].

Best advice: chase the midday bug activity, watch for colored water, fish deep, and mix up your presentations. Good luck out there and keep ‘em wet!

It’s a promising day for anglers on the Colorado River, Colorado, as spring opens up excellent fishing opportunities. Here’s your narrative report for April 14, 2025.

Today, expect moderate fishing pressure across the river, with ideal conditions emerging as the day warms up. Sunrise was at 6:25 AM, and sunset will be at 7:41 PM. Morning temperatures hover in the low 40s, climbing to highs near 52°F by late afternoon. Flows near Glenwood Springs are steady, currently recorded at approximately 1,770 cubic feet per second (CFS), with water clarity remaining favorable for both wading and floating anglers.

Fish activity is ramping up with consistent hatches of Blue Winged Olives (BWOs), midges, and early caddis. Nymph fishing has proven most effective, with recommended setups including Pat’s Rubber Legs, Zebra Midges (#18–24), and RS2 emergers (#20–22). For dry fly enthusiasts, BWOs and Elk Hair Caddis (#16–18) are producing results during midday hatches. Streamer fishing has also seen a surge, particularly with patterns like Thin Mints and Sculpzillas.

Recent catches have featured healthy populations of brown and rainbow trout, with some anglers reporting notable success at Grizzly Creek and South Canyon Recreation Area. These hotspots provide diverse water structures, such as riffles and pools, ideal for nymphing and occasional dry-fly strikes.

If you’re looking to explore, Two Rivers Park near Glenwood Springs offers excellent access and consistent hatches, with the chance to hook larger fish. Downstream at the New Castle Riffles, the slower water provides prime opportunities for targeting trout with nymph rigs.

For bait and lures, go small and natural today. Pair stonefly patterns with emerger nymphs or midges for better results. Keep your presentation deep and slow to mimic the natural drift of emerging insects. Streamers are recommended in deeper runs, with slow retrieves triggering aggressive strikes from fish in pre-spawn mode. Be mindful that rainbow trout are beginning their spawn—please avoid disturbing active spawning areas.

This April day is shaping up to deliver solid fishing conditions, with warming temperatures keeping fish active through late afternoon. Whether you’re nymphing, throwing streamers, or casting dries, the Colorado River promises rewarding action for those eager to wet a line. Tight lines!

Spring fishing along the Colorado River is heating up, and today, April 13, 2025, offers some great opportunities for anglers to enjoy the waters. The river around Glenwood Springs, Rifle, and other stretches remains productive with increased fish activity and seasonal insect hatches.

The river near Glenwood Springs is flowing at approximately 1,770 CFS, with clear water and temperatures around 47°F. Mild morning winds make for comfortable fishing conditions early in the day, with activity picking up leading into midday as insects like Blue Winged Olives, caddis, and stoneflies emerge. Air temperatures are expected to reach a high of 51°F, perfect for a day outdoors.

Sunrise was at 6:26 AM and sunset will occur at 6:58 PM, giving you over 12 hours of daylight to cast your line. Notably, the rainbow trout are beginning to spawn in some areas, so be mindful of no-catch zones and respect the fish during this important time in their life cycle.

Recent catches have included healthy numbers of brown and rainbow trout, with anglers reporting success using nymph patterns like Pat’s Rubber Legs, Zebra Midges, and Barr’s Emerger. Streamer enthusiasts are also having luck with articulated Thin Mints and Mini Dungeons as the pre-spawn trout are feeding aggressively. For dry fly anglers, Blue Winged Olive patterns have been effective during late morning and early afternoon hatches.

If you're looking for hot spots, consider the following:

1. **Two Rivers Park (Glenwood Springs)**: Accessible and reliable for consistent bites, this area has a mix of riffles and deeper water.
2. **Grizzly Creek**: Less crowded and great for wading, with consistent trout activity in the runs and riffles.
3. **South Canyon Pools**: Known for holding larger trout, especially later in the day, this spot is ideal for those seeking a trophy catch.

For bait or lures, use artificial flies and lures only, as many sections have such regulations. Nymphing is highly recommended during the early part of the day, while streamer fishing can be effective in the afternoon. Consider olive- or black-colored patterns, which mimic local prey.

Anglers are reminded to follow local rules, respect private property boundaries, and practice catch-and-release to maintain these excellent fisheries for years to come. With the river running clear and temperatures warming up, today promises a memorable fishing adventure on Colorado’s iconic waters.

April 12, 2025

Good morning, anglers! The Colorado River is shaping up for an exciting day on the water with spring hatches and improving conditions. The sun will rise at 6:30 AM and set at 7:45 PM today, giving you plenty of daylight to cast your lines. Weather-wise, expect mild temperatures ranging from 55°F to 63°F, light morning winds, and the possibility of gusts in the afternoon.

The river flows are stable between 850 and 950 cubic feet per second (CFS) near Kremmling, with water temperatures lingering around 42°F to 46°F. The clarity is mostly clear but may turn slightly tinted as the day warms up, especially downstream of State Bridge. With snowmelt on the horizon, now is prime time to fish before runoff complicates things.

Fish activity today is centered on spring hatches, particularly Blue Winged Olives (BWOs), midges, and early stoneflies. Late morning to mid-afternoon will be the most productive window for catching trout. Recent catches have included healthy populations of rainbow trout and brown trout, with some anglers reporting large specimens near transitional zones and deeper runs.

For techniques, nymphing is highly reliable. Try a double-nymph rig with a Pat's Rubber Legs or Tazmanian Devil as your attractor, paired with a trailing RS2 or Zebra Midge. For those who enjoy fishing dries, keep an eye out for BWOs emerging mid-morning on overcast afternoons—dries like a Blue Wing Olive Parachute (#18-22) work wonders. If streamer fishing is your game, opt for an Olive Slump Buster or Mini Dungeon, focusing on low-light hours or cloudy conditions with slow, deep retrieves.

Two hotspots today are worth the trip:

1. **Upper Colorado between Kremmling and Parshall**: This stretch offers a mix of riffles, deep runs, and soft seams where trout are actively feeding. The diverse water types are perfect for anglers looking to switch between techniques.

2. **Lower Colorado from State Bridge to Dotsero**: Slightly warmer conditions here have ramped up both the nymph and streamer bite. Be mindful of muddying water later in the day as snowmelt picks up.

As a reminder, rainbow trout are starting to spawn in some areas, so please avoid fishing in active spawning zones and follow local regulations to keep our waters sustainable for all. Keep your catch wet if photographing and have a fantastic day enjoying the beauty and bounty of the Colorado River! Tight lines!

Good morning from the Colorado River! It's shaping up to be a fantastic day for anglers in the area, with cooperative weather and pre-runoff fishing conditions showing great promise. Here's your fishing report for Friday, April 11, 2025.

Today's weather is mild, with highs expected to reach the upper 50s to low 60s, accompanied by clear skies and low wind. Sunrise was at 6:34 AM, and sunset is predicted at 7:39 PM, giving plenty of daylight to cast your lines. Water flows on the river are currently steady, fluctuating between 1,500 and 2,500 cubic feet per second (CFS) depending on location. Water clarity is good in the mornings but may stain slightly by late afternoon due to upstream snowmelt.

Fishing activity has been impressive recently, with trout becoming more active as temperatures warm up. Anglers have been reporting success nymphing with patterns like Pat’s Rubber Legs (#10-12), RS2 (#20-22), and San Juan Worms (#12-14). The Blue Wing Olive (BWO) hatch is also kicking in, especially during late morning and early afternoon, making dry flies such as BWO Comparaduns (#18-22) a great choice. For those targeting big browns, streamer fishing is in prime use; articulated patterns like Thin Mints and Goldies are producing solid strikes.

Recent catches show a good mix of rainbow and brown trout, with some exceptional browns measuring in the mid-20-inch range. The lower Colorado River near Grand Junction is particularly productive, with areas like Fruita (James M. Robb State Park) being a top choice for aggressive browns. For nymphing enthusiasts, the Blue Heron section around Grand Junction has also yielded excellent results, especially in deeper holes.

Two hot spots to consider today are:

1. **Palisade (Island Acres State Park)**: This area offers easy wading access with a mix of riffles and deep pools. It's an ideal spot for both dry fly fishing during hatches and nymphing throughout the day.

2. **Blue Heron Section near Grand Junction**: This location features deeper water and is an excellent choice for targeting larger trout holding low. It's particularly rewarding for those who enjoy nymphing or slow streamer retrieves.

For bait, artificial lures and flies are the way to go, as many sections of the river are restricted to these methods. Be sure to check local regulations before heading out.

Don’t forget your layers—it’s chilly in the early hours—and keep an eye on the water clarity later in the day as snowmelt pulses can affect visibility. Tight lines and good luck out there!

Fishing Report for the Colorado River, Colorado
Date: April 9, 2025

Spring fishing is in full swing on the Colorado River today, with favorable conditions for anglers targeting trout and other species. Here’s a detailed look at what’s happening on the water:

**Weather and Conditions:**
Today’s weather around the Colorado River features mild spring temperatures, with highs around 51°F and water temperatures in the range of 46–48°F. The sunrise was at 6:25 AM, and sunset will occur at 7:39 PM. Mild winds are expected in the morning, increasing slightly into the afternoon. Water clarity is clear in most stretches, though some areas may see pulses of stain later in the day due to upstream snowmelt. The flow rate near Glenwood Springs is approximately 1,770 CFS and rising, offering manageable conditions for both wading and floating.

**Fish Activity and Catches:**
Trout activity is picking up as seasonal hatches of Blue Winged Olives, midges, and caddis begin to emerge. The river is known for its brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout, with recent catches including large rainbows up to 22 inches and browns exceeding 20 inches. Other species like largemouth bass and common carp have also been reported farther downstream. Fishing pressure is moderate, with peak activity occurring midday to early evening when hatches are most prominent.

**Recommended Techniques and Baits:**
- **Dry Flies:** Blue Wing Olive patterns (#18–22) and Parachute Adams (#16–18) are effective during afternoon hatches, particularly in slower water sections.
- **Nymphs:** Double nymph setups work well with patterns such as Pat’s Rubber Legs (#10–12), Beadhead Pheasant Tail (#16–18), and RS2 (#20–22). Adjust indicator depth to target trout holding near the bottom.
- **Streamers:** Streamers like Woolly Buggers (#8–10) in olive or black and Craven’s Double Dirty Hippy are productive, especially during early mornings or overcast conditions. Retrieve slowly through deeper sections or along cut banks to entice larger fish.

**Hot Spots:**
1. **Glenwood Springs to Rifle Stretch:** Known for larger browns and rainbows, this section offers a mix of slower runs and deep pools. Two Rivers Park and Grizzly Creek are prime access points.
2. **Confluence with Roaring Fork River:** This area is great for wade fishing, with good numbers of active trout. Focus on transitional zones where fish are feeding beneath the surface.

**Tips for Local Anglers:**
Pre-runoff conditions make this an excellent time to fish before snowmelt increases flows. Start the day with nymphs and transition to dry flies as hatches emerge. Keep an eye on water clarity, particularly in the afternoons, and adjust tactics if the water becomes stained. For wade fishers, exercise caution in the river’s deeper, faster sections.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to the sport, the Colorado River is offering fantastic opportunities this week. Tight lines!

Today, April 4, 2025, the Colorado River is providing solid spring fishing opportunities, despite variable weather conditions. Temperatures are cool, ranging from highs in the mid-50s to upper 60s near Grand Junction, with lows dipping to the upper 30s. The weather is mostly sunny with some wind gusts up to 30 mph in the afternoon. Water clarity remains good, though recent snowmelt and fluctuating flows may impact visibility in certain stretches.

Recent catches on the Colorado River highlight good activity among brown trout and rainbow trout, which are regularly being caught along upper stretches of the river. Anglers are also finding success landing largemouth bass and the occasional cutthroat trout. In the lower reaches, catfish activity has been picking up, particularly when using cut bait, livers, or catfish nuggets. There are also sporadic sightings of native species like the endangered Colorado pikeminnow, though these remain highly rare[1][3][6].

Fly fishing is increasingly productive with the onset of spring hatches. Midges, Blue-Winged Olives (BWOs), and small dry flies are leading the charge. Nymph rigs featuring Quill Jigs, Purple Perdigons, and Pheasant Tails in sizes #16-22 are highly effective, especially in deeper runs and riffle stretches. Streamer fishing is also gaining momentum, with patterns like Woolly Buggers and Baby Gonga streamers proving successful for targeting larger trout. Clean drifts and attention to detail are key to hooking fish in technical areas[4][7][10].

Key hot spots to focus on include the Pumphouse to Dotsero section for float fishing and slack water areas where large browns and rainbows are holding. The 15-Mile Reach near Palisade is also worth exploring, not only for its scenic beauty but also for potential encounters with native species. For catfish enthusiasts, the lower segments of the river offer ripe conditions to try traditional bottom rigs[6][9][10].

Recommended bait and lures depend on your target species. For trout, prioritize midges, BWOs, and small dry flies. For bass, spinnerbaits and soft plastics work well, while catfish are biting on cut bait. Anglers looking for larger catches might experiment with double streamer rigs for pre-spawn activity among trout[1][6][10].

Sunrise today was at 6:42 AM, and sunset will occur at 7:36 PM. With moderate weather, this is a prime window to enjoy a full day on the water. Pack warm clothing, as temperatures drop sharply in the evening, and brace for potential wind-related challenges in open areas. Experienced anglers should also consider covering more ground to locate active fish[2][5][10].

Get out there and enjoy the spring fishing before runoff fully sets in!

The Colorado River is calling all anglers today, April 4, 2025, with promising conditions for a day of fishing. Here’s the latest narrative fishing report to help you prepare for your adventure.

The sunrise today was at 6:47 AM and the sunset will be at 7:32 PM, providing ample daylight for fishing. Temperatures are expected to remain cool, peaking in the upper 30s with lows dropping into the 20s. Light snow and wind are forecasted, which may make for brisk conditions, but these overcast skies should enhance fish activity, especially during low-light periods. Water flows in the Colorado River are rising but remain manageable, supporting both wade and float fishing.

Recent catches have included an impressive variety of species: brown trout, rainbow trout, cutbows, and even the occasional Colorado pikeminnow, a critically endangered species making a rare appearance in surveys. Brown and rainbow trout are the stars of this river, with anglers reporting consistent action. Logged catches also include largemouth bass and common carp in certain stretches of the river.

For fly anglers, Blue Winged Olives (BWO) and midges in all life stages are the top hatches to target. Dry fly presentations during midday hatches have been productive. Nymphing remains a reliable option, with go-to patterns including San Juan Worms, RS2s, Iron Lotus, and Pat’s Rubber Legs. Streamer enthusiasts should try patterns like Double Dirty Hippies and Dali Lamas, especially in deeper, slower sections and near undercut banks. For those preferring spin fishing, small spoons, crankbaits, and soft plastics mimicking baitfish have seen success.

Two hot spots to consider today are the stretch near the confluence with the Roaring Fork River and the waters from Pumphouse to State Bridge. At the confluence, trout are actively feeding around the seams and eddies, making it an ideal spot for both wading and floating anglers. The Pumphouse area offers good action, especially for those tossing streamers.

Overall, the Colorado River is fishing well despite the cool temperatures, and with the right tactics and some patience, you can expect a rewarding outing. As always, dress warmly, bring your favorite flies or lures, and get ready to enjoy one of Colorado’s premier fisheries!

Artificial Lure here with your Colorado River fishing report for April 2, 2025. We've got a beautiful day lined up for anglers. Sunrise was at 6:26 AM, and the sun will set at 6:59 PM, giving you over 12 hours of daylight to enjoy. The weather is crisp and clear with temperatures ranging between 15°C (59°F) in the morning and 22°C (72°F) this afternoon. Winds are light, and the river conditions are optimal.

The Colorado River is experiencing steady flows, averaging around 12,500 cubic feet per second downstream of Glen Canyon Dam. Water temperatures are hovering around 17°C (63°F), encouraging fish to get more active as spring takes hold. Tidal patterns for today show a high tide at 5:10 AM and another at 6:15 PM, with low tides mid-morning and late-night—perfect conditions for targeting feeding fish.

Recently, anglers have reported excellent catches. Striped bass have been standout performers, with several 15-20 pounders landed using cut anchovies and live shad. For those preferring artificial lures, white or chartreuse swimbaits and deep-diving crankbaits have been highly effective. Largemouth bass action is heating up too, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Soft plastics like green pumpkin jigs and Senkos are the go-to baits for these fighters, particularly around submerged vegetation in coves.

Rainbow trout are still biting well, particularly in the Willow Beach area, which is stocked weekly. Powerbait and small spinners, such as Panther Martins, are proven producers, with some trout measuring up to 20 inches. Catfish, meanwhile, are active in the evenings, with anglers having great success using stinkbaits and cut shad. For panfish enthusiasts, crappie have begun moving into warmer, shallower water. Small jigs tipped with worms are yielding results in five to ten feet of water near submerged structures.

Looking for hot spots? Hemenway Harbor near Lake Mead is a fantastic location to try for stripers and largemouth bass alike. For trout action, Willow Beach remains unbeatable. Shore anglers should check out Katherine Landing on Lake Mohave, where anglers are hooking into large stripers using cut bait.

For fly anglers, around Glenwood Springs, conditions are ideal. Nymphing with Tactical Turds and Jig Zebra Midges has been productive, and streamer patterns like Thin Mints and BiteMe Buggers are starting to gain momentum.

With water temps rising and more fish on the move, this is a prime time to head out and wet a line. Whether you're casting for stripers, bass, or trout, the Colorado River is offering something for everyone. Tight lines, and I'll see you on the water!