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!