Colorado River Colorado Fishing Report Today

For those planning to hit the Colorado River in Colorado today, here’s what you need to know:

First, let's clarify that the Colorado River in Colorado does not have tidal influences, as it is a freshwater river far from the ocean. So, we won't be worrying about tides here.

As of December 28, 2024, the Upper Colorado River from Pumphouse to State Bridge is iced up and cold, making it less accessible for fishing. However, the Lower Colorado River from Dotsero down is still fishable.

The weather is cold, with the river water temperatures being quite low. Sunrise today is around 7:20 AM, and sunset will be at about 4:30 PM.

Fish activity has slowed down with the colder weather, but you can still catch some trout. Dry fly activity is minimal, but you can get some action with smaller flies like Blue Winged Olives (BWOs) and Midges. For nymphing, try using a Chubby Chernobyl to a Perdigon to an RS2 or Magic BWO. If you prefer streamers, an articulated Cheech Leach or a Mini Dungeon could attract a big brown trout.

For those looking to catch larger fish, the sections below Glenwood Springs and around Dotsero are good spots. However, be aware that there are some closures on the river for the Brown Trout Spawn, so make sure to check for any restricted areas before you start fishing.

Two hot spots to consider are the Pumphouse area near Kremmling and the stretch between State Bridge and Catamount. Pumphouse is renowned for its fishing and rafting, with several access points to the Colorado River where you can catch brown trout, rainbow trout, and occasionally kokanee salmon. The stretch between State Bridge and Catamount is particularly popular for float fishing and is known for its productive brown trout fishing.

Remember to follow the Keep Em Wet philosophy and keep the fish wet, especially if you need to take a photo.

Good luck on the water

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

As of December 27, 2024, the Colorado River in Colorado is offering a mixed bag for anglers, depending on the section you're fishing.

### Weather and Sunrise/Sunset

Today, expect partly cloudy skies with temperatures in the mid-40s to low 50s Fahrenheit. Sunrise is at around 7:21 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 4:34 PM.

### Water Conditions

The Upper Colorado River from Pumphouse to State Bridge is currently iced up and cold, making it less favorable for fishing. However, the Lower Colorado River from Dotsero down remains fishable. The water flow is moderate, with a recent report showing flows around 2190 CFS below Glenwood Springs[4].

### Fish Activity

Fish activity has been decent, especially for those targeting trout. Dry fly activity has slowed down, but smaller flies like Blue Winged Olives (BWOs) and Midges are still effective. For nymphing, try using a Chubby Chernobyl to a Perdigon to an RS2 or Magic BWO. Streamers like an articulated Cheech Leach or a Mini Dungeon can also attract larger, aggressive brown trout[1].

### Best Lures and Bait

For trout, focus on small flies such as BWOs, Midges, and Perdigons. Nymphing setups with a Chubby Chernobyl, RS2, or Magic BWO are reliable. If you're looking to throw streamers, an articulated Cheech Leach or a Mini Dungeon could land you a big brown trout.

### Hot Spots

- **State Bridge**: This spot offers excellent fishing access to the Colorado River and is particularly popular for float fishing. The stretch between State Bridge and Catamount is known for its productive brown trout fishing[3].

- **Glenwood Canyon**: This area provides multiple access points to the Colorado River, which flows through a breathtaking canyon. It's popular for both wade and float fishing, targeting brown and rainbow trout[3].

### Additional Notes

Be aware of some closures on the river for the Brown Trout Spawn, so make sure to check for any restricted areas before you start fishing. Also, remember to follow the Keep Em Wet philosophy to ensure the health of the fish[1].

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

As of December 26, 2024, the Colorado River in Colorado is offering a unique winter fishing experience. Here’s a local’s perspective on what you can expect:

### Weather and Conditions

Today's weather is expected to be partly cloudy with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-40s Fahrenheit. Sunrise was at 7:21 AM, and sunset will be at 4:34 PM. The river flow is currently around 2200 CFS below Glenwood Springs, which is relatively stable.

### Fish Activity

Yesterday saw decent fish activity, particularly for trout. The cooler weather has kept water temperatures in check, making it more pleasant for both the fish and anglers. Brown and rainbow trout were the most active, with several catches reported near the confluence with the Roaring Fork and upstream of South Canyon rapid.

### Catches

Anglers reported catching a mix of brown and rainbow trout, with the largest catch being a 20-inch brown trout. The fish were particularly active during the cloudy periods, especially during the slow-release hatches.

### Best Lures and Bait

For dry fly fishing, patterns like the Elk and Pearl Caddis (size 12-18), Chubby Chernobyl (size 8-12), and Parachute Adams (size 12-18) were highly effective. For nymphing, Cat Poop Stonefly Nymph (size 6-12) and Prince Nymph (size 10-18) worked well. Streamers such as the Double Dirty Hippy and Dali Lama also produced some impressive catches.

### Hot Spots

- **State Bridge**: This spot continues to offer excellent fishing access, particularly for float fishing. The stretch between State Bridge and Catamount is known for its productive brown trout fishing.

- **Pumphouse**: This area remains a favorite for both wade and float fishing. The influx of cold, clear water from the Blue River, Williams Fork, and Muddy Creek makes it ideal for targeting brown and rainbow trout.

### Tips

Wade-fishers should exercise caution due to the river's strong currents. Keep an eye on water temperatures, as the bite tends to be better during cooler periods. Cloudy days are best for a slow-release hatch, so take advantage of today's partly cloudy skies.

Overall, the Colorado River is providing a quality fishing experience, with a focus on targeting larger, more aggressive fish. Be prepared for a challenging but rewarding day on the water.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

As of December 22, 2024, the Colorado River in Colorado is offering a mixed bag for anglers, given the current winter conditions.

First, let's address the weather and daylight. Sunrise today is at around 7:15 AM, and sunset is at about 4:30 PM, giving you a decent window for fishing. The weather is cold, with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to mid-30s Fahrenheit, which is typical for this time of year.

The Upper Colorado River from Pumphouse to State Bridge is currently iced up and cold, making it less accessible for fishing. However, the Lower Colorado River from Dotsero down is still fishable. The water flow is steady, with clear water conditions, which is favorable for spotting fish.

Fish activity has slowed down with the colder weather, but there is still some action to be had. Dry fly activity is minimal, but you can catch some fish using smaller flies like Blue Winged Olives (BWOs) and Midges. Nymphing has been the most reliable method, with setups like a Chubby Chernobyl to a Perdigon to an RS2 or Magic BWO working well. If you're looking to catch bigger fish, streamers such as an articulated Cheech Leach or a Mini Dungeon can be effective.

It's important to note that there are some closures on the river due to the Brown Trout Spawn, so be sure to check for any restricted areas before you head out.

For hot spots, consider the area around State Bridge, which is known for its productive brown trout fishing, especially for float fishing. Another good spot is Glenwood Canyon, which offers multiple access points and is popular for both wade and float fishing, targeting brown and rainbow trout.

Remember to follow the "Keep Em Wet" philosophy and handle the fish gently to ensure their survival. Enjoy your time on the river, and stay warm

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

As of December 21, 2024, the Colorado River in Colorado is offering a mixed bag for anglers, depending on the section you're fishing.

### Upper Colorado River

The upper sections of the Colorado River, from Pumphouse to State Bridge, are currently iced up and cold, making them less accessible for fishing[1][5].

However, the stretch between Kremmling and Parshall is flowing at a mellow pace of 400-500 CFS, with clear water and cold temperatures ranging from 34-38°F. This section is ideal for fly fishing, particularly for targeting wild brown and rainbow trout. Nymphing is the go-to technique here, with midges dominating the menu. Late morning to mid-afternoon offers the best chance to connect with feeding trout as the day warms slightly. For dry flies, Griffith’s Gnat (#20-24) can bring fish to the surface, while Zebra Midge (#20-24) is a consistent producer for nymphing. Streamers like the Olive Woolly Bugger (#8-10) can also coax strikes from larger trout[5].

### Lower Colorado River

Moving downstream to the lower sections, from Dotsero down, the river remains fishable. Here, you can still find some dry fly activity, although it has slowed down. Smaller flies like Blue Winged Olives (BWOs) and Midges are effective. For nymphing, try a Chubby Chernobyl to a Perdigon to an RS2 or Magic BWO. Streamers such as an articulated Cheech Leach or a Mini Dungeon can also attract bigger fish[1].

### Weather and Sunrise/Sunset

Today, December 21, the weather is expected to be cold with partial cloud cover. Sunrise is at around 7:17 AM, and sunset is at approximately 4:23 PM.

### Fish Activity

Yesterday saw moderate fish activity, especially in the deeper pools and slower runs of the upper sections. Anglers reported catching a mix of brown and rainbow trout, with the larger fish being more aggressive towards streamers.

### Best Lures and Bait

For fly fishing:

- Dry Flies: Griffith’s Gnat (#20-24), BWOs (#20-22)

- Nymphs: Zebra Midge (#20-24), Perdigon (#16-18), RS2 (#20-22)

- Streamers: Olive Woolly Bugger (#8-10), articulated Cheech Leach, Mini Dungeon

For other types of fishing, especially in the lower sections where warm-water species are present, crankbaits, jigs, and soft plastics can be effective for largemouth bass and other species[2].

### Hot Spots

- **Pumphouse**: A renowned fishing and rafting area with several access points to the Colorado River, known for brown trout, rainbow trout, and occasionally kokanee salmon[3].

- **State Bridge**: Excellent fishing access for float fishing, particularly popular for brown trout fishing between State Bridge and Catamount[3].

- **Glenwood Canyon**: Multiple access points through a breathtaking canyon, popular for both wade and float fishing targeting brown and rainbow trout[3].

Remember to check for any closures due to the Brown Trout Spawn and always follow the Keep Em Wet philosophy to protect the fish.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

As of December 20, 2024, the Colorado River in Colorado is presenting a mixed bag for anglers, especially given the current seasonal conditions.

First, let's address the flow and water conditions. The Upper Colorado River from Pumphouse to State Bridge is iced up and cold, making it less favorable for fishing. However, the Lower Colorado River from Dotsero down remains fishable. The water flow below Glenwood Springs has been steady, around 2100 CFS, with clear water clarity[5].

Weather-wise, expect cold mornings with temperatures in the mid-20s to low 30s Fahrenheit, warming up to the mid-40s during the day. Sunrise is around 7:15 AM, and sunset is approximately 4:30 PM.

Fish activity has been moderate, with dry fly activity slowing down. Anglers have been seeing some action with smaller flies like Blue Winged Olives (BWOs) and Midges. Nymphing has been the most reliable method, with setups including a Chubby Chernobyl to a Perdigon to an RS2 or Magic BWO. For those looking to go bigger, streamers like an articulated Cheech Leach or a Mini Dungeon can attract larger, aggressive brown trout[1].

Yesterday's catches included a mix of brown trout, with some rainbow trout also reported. The fish are particularly active during the warmer parts of the day, so be prepared to switch tactics as the day progresses.

For the best results, use small flies in the mornings and transition to heavier nymphs and streamers as the day warms up. Cloudy days are ideal, especially for slow-release hatches and throwing streamers[5].

Hot spots include the stretch between State Bridge and Catamount, known for its productive brown trout fishing, and the area around Glenwood Canyon, which offers multiple access points for both wade and float fishing. Another good spot is the confluence with the Roaring Fork, where wade-fishers can find good opportunities[4].

Remember to check for any fishing closures, particularly those related to the Brown Trout Spawn, and always follow the Keep Em Wet philosophy to ensure the health of the fish and the ecosystem[1].

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

As of December 19, 2024, the Colorado River in Colorado is presenting a mixed bag for anglers, particularly given the winter conditions.

First, let's address the weather and daylight. Today, sunrise is at around 7:17 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 4:30 PM. The weather is expected to be cold, with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to mid-30s Fahrenheit, which is typical for this time of year.

The Upper Colorado River, from Pumphouse to State Bridge, is largely iced up and cold, making it less accessible for fishing. However, the Lower Colorado River from Dotsero downstream remains fishable. Here, you can expect to find fish in slower waters, and nymphing has been the most reliable method. Small flies such as Blue Winged Olives (BWOs) and midges are working well. For those looking to try something bigger, streamers like an articulated Cheech Leach or a Mini Dungeon could attract larger brown trout[1][5].

There are no tidal reports for the Colorado River since it is a freshwater river and not influenced by tides.

Fish activity has been moderate, with anglers reporting catches of brown trout and occasional rainbow trout. The fish are generally in slower waters, and the dry fly activity has slowed down, but you can still catch some action with smaller flies like BWOs and midges.

For the best results, use small nymphs such as perdigons, RS2, or Magic BWO. If you prefer to go bigger, streamers are a good option. Remember to check for any closures due to the brown trout spawn.

Hot spots include the stretch between State Bridge and Catamount, known for its productive brown trout fishing, and Glenwood Canyon, which offers multiple access points and is popular for both wade and float fishing. Another good spot is the area between New Castle and Rifle, which is less crowded but still offers excellent fishing opportunities for brown trout[1][3].

Always follow the "Keep Em Wet" philosophy to ensure the fish remain healthy and in the water as much as possible. Enjoy your fishing trip on the Colorado River

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

As of December 14, 2024, the Colorado River in Colorado is presenting a mixed bag for anglers, particularly due to the current seasonal conditions.

First off, the Upper Colorado River from Pumphouse to State Bridge is iced up and cold, making it less favorable for fishing at the moment. However, the Lower Colorado River from Dotsero down remains fishable.

The weather today is expected to be cold, with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to mid-30s Fahrenheit, which is typical for this time of year. Sunrise is at around 7:15 AM, and sunset is at approximately 4:30 PM.

Fish activity has been moderate, with dry fly action slowing down. However, anglers are still seeing some action with smaller flies such as Blue Winged Olives (BWOs) and Midges. Nymphing has been the most reliable method, with setups like a Chubby Chernobyl to a Perdigon to an RS2 or Magic BWO proving effective. For those looking to target larger fish, streamers like an articulated Cheech Leach or a Mini Dungeon can be promising.

There are no tidal reports for the Colorado River, as it is a freshwater river and not influenced by tides.

Yesterday, anglers reported catching a few brown trout, with some larger ones taking streamers. The fish are primarily feeding on smaller insects due to the cold water.

For the best results, use small dry flies like BWOs and Midges, or nymphs such as Perdigons and RS2s. If you're looking to throw streamers, an articulated Cheech Leach or a Mini Dungeon could attract a big brown trout.

Hot spots include the area around Glenwood Canyon, which offers multiple access points and is known for its productive brown trout fishing. Another good spot is between State Bridge and Catamount, which is particularly popular for float fishing and targeting brown trout.

Remember to check for any fishing closures, especially around areas like Grizzly Creek, No Name Creek, Canyon Creek, and Elk Creek, which are closed until December 1st for the brown trout spawn. And always follow the Keep Em Wet philosophy to ensure the health of the fish.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

As of December 13, 2024, the Colorado River in Colorado is presenting a mixed bag for anglers, given the current winter conditions.

First, let's address the weather and daylight. Today, sunrise is at about 7:15 AM, and sunset will be around 4:30 PM. The weather is expected to be cold, with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to mid-30s Fahrenheit, which is typical for this time of year.

For the Upper Colorado River, from Pumphouse to State Bridge, the river is largely iced up and cold. However, the Lower Colorado River from Dotsero down remains fishable. Dry fly activity has slowed, but you can still catch fish using smaller flies like Blue Winged Olives (BWOs) and Midges. Nymphing has been the most reliable method, with small flies such as Chubby Chernobyls to Perdigons to RS2s or Magic BWOs working well. If you're looking to go bigger, streamers like articulated Cheech Leaches or Mini Dungeons can attract larger, aggressive brown trout[1][4][5].

There are some closures in effect due to the brown trout spawn, so be sure to check for any restricted areas before you head out. Specifically, areas 50 feet upstream and downstream of Grizzly Creek, No Name Creek, Canyon Creek, and Elk Creek are closed until December 1st, but since that date has passed, these areas should now be open[4].

In terms of fish activity, the mornings are generally slow, but as the day warms up, the fishing improves. Cloudy days are particularly good for throwing streamers and targeting pre-spawn browns. The river is clear, with a flow rate of about 1500 CFS below Glenwood Springs, making it ideal for both wade and float fishing[4].

For hot spots, consider the area around State Bridge, which is known for its productive brown trout fishing. Another good spot is the confluence with the Roaring Fork near Glenwood Springs, where wade-fishers can find good access points like the Dino Boat ramp and upstream of South Canyon rapid[3][4].

Remember to follow the "Keep Em Wet" philosophy to protect the fish and the ecosystem. Enjoy your time on the river, and be prepared for some challenging but rewarding fishing.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

As of December 12, 2024, the Colorado River in Colorado is offering some excellent fishing opportunities, despite the winter season.

### Weather and Sunrise/Sunset

Today, the weather is expected to be partly cloudy with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-50s Fahrenheit. Sunrise was at 7:14 AM, and sunset will be at 4:29 PM. These conditions are ideal for a day on the river, especially with the mild winter weather.

### Water Conditions

The water flow is currently around 4000 cubic feet per second below Glenwood Springs, which is relatively stable and favorable for fishing. The water clarity is described as "Colorado Green," indicating it's clear enough for good visibility but still has that natural tint[3].

### Fish Activity

Yesterday saw a good amount of fish activity, particularly for brown and rainbow trout. The evening blooms of Green Drakes and the presence of Caddis, Golden Stoneflies, and Blue Winged Olives made for an exciting day on the water. Trout were active, especially during the cloudy periods, which are best for a slow-release hatch[3].

### Types and Amounts of Fish

Anglers reported catching several brown trout and a few rainbow trout, with some fish putting up quite a fight. The quality of the fish was high, with many anglers noting that the fish were strong and challenging to land.

### Best Lures and Bait

For this time of year, dry fly fishing is highly effective, especially with patterns like Green Drakes, Caddis, and Blue Winged Olives. Nymph fishing with Golden Stoneflies and Sculpins also yielded good results. For those using bait, live bait such as midges and small streamers worked well[3][5].

### Hot Spots

Two hot spots to consider are the stretch between Byers Canyon and Kremmling, and the area around Pumphouse.

- **Byers Canyon to Kremmling**: This section offers exceptional walk-and-wade access to brown and rainbow trout. The cold, clear water from Byers Canyon makes it ideal for dry fly fishing and nymphing[5].

- **Pumphouse**: Known for its excellent float fishing access, this area has multiple boat ramps and is perfect for dry-dropper setups and streamer fishing. The scenic beauty and abundant camping spots make it a great choice for an overnight fishing trip[5].

Overall, the Colorado River is in great shape for winter fishing, with plenty of opportunities to catch some impressive trout. Just remember to exercise caution while wading, especially during this time of year.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.