Fly fishing is a popular hobby for many able people. Fly fishing happens on flowing water, taking place on lakes, ponds, and reservoirs. Fly fishing intends to deceive a fish using an artificial fly created from animal parts. Between April and October, the fly fishing season is at its height. This article discusses the ten most fantastic fly fishing spots in Colorado.
1. Animas river
The Animas River originates in the San Juan Mountains and flows through Colorado and New Mexico for 126 miles. Not only is this river famous for its gold-medal fishing, but it is also one of only a few genuine freestone fisheries. Anglers may catch rainbow and brown trout in the Animas River’s waters, and some of them grow to be very big. Durango has some of the finest fishing in the state. Anglers should have a good selection of caddis patterns on hand throughout the summer fishing season.
2. The South Platte River
The South Platte River is teeming with fish throughout. Numerous fish species inhabit the river, attracting a large number of anglers. Additionally, the reservoirs located around the Denver metropolitan region are excellent.
Due to its closeness to Denver, Deckers is arguably some of the most congested water on the river. If you are interested in trying out Colorado Fly Fishing, you can get advice and simple instructions about the practice on platforms such as https://bluequillangler.com/, where you interact with experts.
3. Colorado River
The Colorado River offers some of the finest fishing in Colorado. The Colorado River, from its sources in Rocky Mountain National Park south, has everything from tiny meadow sections that need wading to large bodies of water that demand a boat. Numerous fish species inhabit the river.
The water of the Colorado River in Rocky Mountain National Park conceals a wealth of fascinating discoveries under its undercut banks. The majority of fish in this area will be smaller and brown.
4. River Rio Grande
This winding river originates in Southwest Colorado’s San Juan Mountains and empties into the Gulf of Mexico. The finest fishing portion of the river is between the villages of Del Norte and South Fork in the San Juans. This stretch has some of the river’s finest fishing. The ideal time to fish the river is from June to July when the fish hatch.
5. Reservoir Spinney Mountain
This fishing location is known for its excellent fishing and surrounding surroundings. Spinney Mountain Reservoir attracts anglers due to its fly-fishing, belly boating, and trolling possibilities.
It is a reliable source of trophy trout, walleyes, and salmon. Although the reservoir offers excellent fishing throughout the year, the ideal time to fish is in the summer, from June through August.
6. Lake North Delaney Butte
This site is one of three high alpine lakes found near Walden in the Delaney Buttes. The lake is top-rated due to the abundance of trout. Indeed, the state Division of Wildlife harvests trout eggs to supplement the state’s trout population. North Delaney Lake ranks among Colorado’s top ten fishing locations.
7. River Fryingpan
This fishing location has developed a worldwide reputation as a fly and lure fishing destination. Colorado has maintained this fishing environment well. In certain parts of the river, you may easily catch 10-pound rainbow trout.
8. Arkansas River
This river runs 102 miles from its confluence with the Lake Fork River in Leadville. The river meanders across subalpine meadows and arid terrain. The desert habitat, which is very popular with trout and rainbows, is one of the most popular fishing portions of the river.
9. Stream of Gore
Despite its modest size, this stream is one of the finest fishing locations in Colorado. It’s a tiny stream, but it’s filled with big trout. You may fish everywhere along the stream, from the mountains above Gore Lake to the confluence with the Eagle River. However, the stream has two primary fishing locations: Upper Gore Creek and lower gore creek.
10. Gunnison River
The Black Canyon in Gunnison National Park has some of the finest fishing portions, but they are restricted to fly fishing and artificial lures exclusively. Most fly fishers want to test themselves with a more challenging fishing method and capture as many fish as possible throughout the experience. Above are the best fly fishing sites in Colorado.
When Is the Best Time to Fly Fish in Colorado?
In Colorado, the main fly fishing season runs from spring to autumn. The exact best time depends on the water and the weather. In spring, rivers run high with snowmelt, so fishing is better in tailwaters (rivers below dams) where the flow is controlled. In summer, from June to August, most rivers and lakes fish well, and the water is warm enough for wading. In autumn, the crowds thin out, and the trout feed hard before winter. In winter, only a few tailwaters fish well, and you need to dress warmly. Always check the water flow and the weather before you go, and avoid wading in fast, high water.
Do You Need a Fishing License in Colorado?
Yes. In Colorado, anyone age 16 or older needs a valid fishing license to fish in public waters. You can buy a license from Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) online, by phone, or at a license agent. A one-day license is good for a short trip, while an annual license is better if you fish often. CPW sets the rules on bag limits, size limits, and catch and release for each water. Always check the current CPW fishing rules before you go, because they change and they differ by river and lake.
Basic Fly Fishing Gear for Beginners
| Gear | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Fly rod | A 9-foot, 5-weight rod is a good all-round choice for trout in Colorado |
| Fly reel | Match the reel to the rod weight, with a smooth drag |
| Fly line | Weight-forward floating line for most rivers and lakes |
| Flies | Dry flies, nymphs, and streamers; ask a local shop what is working now |
| Waders and boots | Breathable waders and boots with good grip for slippery rocks |
| Net and tools | A landing net, forceps to remove hooks, and nippers to cut line |
What Are Gold Medal Waters?
Colorado Parks and Wildlife gives the “Gold Medal” label to waters that can produce at least 60 pounds of trout per acre and at least 12 trout over 14 inches per acre. These are some of the best trout waters in the state. Several of the spots in this article, including the Animas River, the South Platte River at Deckers, the Colorado River, the Fryingpan River, the Arkansas River, and the Gunnison River, include Gold Medal sections. Gold Medal waters are popular, so they can be crowded, especially on weekends. Go early in the morning or on a weekday for a quieter trip.
Catch and Release: How to Do It Right
- Use barbless hooks. Barbless hooks are easier to remove and cause less harm to the fish. Some waters require them.
- Keep the fish in the water. Hold the fish in the water while you remove the hook, and do not keep it out of the water for photos.
- Wet your hands. Always wet your hands before you touch a fish, so you do not damage its protective slime layer.
- Handle the fish gently. Support the fish under its belly, and never squeeze it or hold it by the gills.
- Let it swim away. Hold the fish facing upstream in the current until it swims away on its own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a fishing license to fly fish in Colorado?
Yes. Anyone age 16 or older needs a valid fishing license from Colorado Parks and Wildlife to fish in public waters. You can buy a one-day or an annual license.
When is the best time to fly fish in Colorado?
The main season runs from spring to autumn. Summer, from June to August, is the most popular time, while autumn is quieter and the trout feed hard before winter.
What are Gold Medal waters?
Gold Medal waters are waters that Colorado Parks and Wildlife rates as top trout fisheries. They can produce at least 60 pounds of trout per acre and at least 12 trout over 14 inches per acre.
What gear do I need to start fly fishing?
A 9-foot, 5-weight fly rod and a matching reel, weight-forward floating line, a few dry flies, nymphs, and streamers, plus waders, boots, and a landing net.
Should I release the trout I catch?
Many Colorado waters are catch and release, and many anglers release trout even where keeping them is allowed. Use barbless hooks, keep the fish in the water, and handle it gently so it can swim away safely.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. Fishing rules, license prices, and bag limits change and differ by water, so check the current Colorado Parks and Wildlife rules before you fish.
Last Updated: 6 November 2026