Colorado Hatch Calendar

South Platte River — January

Midges (size 22-26) dominate. Fish midge pupa and larva sub-surface. Dry fly action rare but possible on warm afternoons with a Griffiths Gnat #22.

Arkansas River — January

Midges (size 22-26) dominate. Best action on sunny afternoons when fish move to feed. Streamer fishing can produce large browns in Salida corridor.

Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — January

Blue River — January

Midges (size 22-26) dominate this tailwater year-round. Flows consistent due to Dillon Reservoir regulation — one of Colorado's most reliable winter fisheries.

Bear Creek — January

Small stream in winter. Fish move to deep pools. Midges (size 22-24) primary. Below 15 CFS conditions get very tough. Check gauge before driving out.

Colorado River — January

Midges (size 20-24) dominant. Big river in winter — fish deep runs and slow edges near Kremmling. Streamers productive for large browns.

Frying Pan River — January

Midges (size 20-26) dominate this tailwater year-round. Consistent flows below Ruedi hold large selective rainbows even in January — one of Colorado's best winter fisheries. Fish midge larva and pupa in slots and seams.

Roaring Fork River — January

Midges (size 20-24) primary in lower canyon near Glenwood Springs. Upper sections near Basalt fish better in winter — less icing. Streamers for large browns in deep runs.

Cache la Poudre River — January

Midges (size 22-26) dominate the canyon. Fish deep pools below Poudre Park on sunny afternoons. BWOs possible on mild days. Front Range location means milder winters than mountain streams.

Taylor River — January

World-class midge fishing year-round (size 22-28). Reservoir regulation maintains 40-50°F water all winter. Large rainbows and browns active in deep canyon pools. This is one of Colorado's premier winter fisheries.

Gunnison River — January

Midges (size 20-24) and streamers dominate. Black Canyon access is very difficult in winter. Lower river near Delta more accessible but colder. Streamers for large browns in deep runs.

Eagle River — January

Midges (size 22-26) dominate. Eagle River runs through the I-70 corridor — accessible in winter from the interstate. Fish deep pools near Minturn and Gypsum. Streamers productive for large fish.

Yampa River — January

Midges (size 20-24) and streamers dominate. Steamboat Springs section has decent winter access through town. Fish deep runs in the Fish Creek confluence area. Brown trout active in cold water.

Rio Grande — January

Midges (size 20-24) primary in the Gold Medal section. San Luis Valley winters can be brutal — temperatures well below zero possible. Fish deep pools near Wagon Wheel Gap when accessible.

Crystal River — January

Small stream in deep winter. Fish move to slow pools below Marble. Midges (size 22-24) primary. Crystal Valley road can be difficult — check conditions before heading above Redstone.

Dolores River — January

Tailwater below McPhee Reservoir maintains consistent flows year-round. Midges (size 20-24) dominant. Large rainbows and browns active in cold weather. Southwest Colorado location means milder winters than mountain rivers.

North Platte River — January

Slate River — January

San Juan River — January

Animas River — January

East River — January

South Platte River — February

Midges remain primary. First Blue-Winged Olives (BWO) appear on cloudy overcast days (size 20-22). Watch for surface feeding around midday.

Arkansas River — February

Midges year-round. BWOs beginning on warm/overcast days (size 20-22). Salida stretch has consistent winter midge action.

Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — February

Blue River — February

Midges remain primary (size 22-26). Occasional BWO on overcast days (size 20-22). Tailwater stability makes this fishable when other rivers are blown out.

Bear Creek — February

Midges continue. Stream waking up on warm days. BWOs possible on overcast afternoons (size 20-22). Small water, small flies, light tippet.

Colorado River — February

Midges continue. BWOs possible on warm/cloudy days (size 20-22). Kremmling corridor has consistent winter midge action.

Frying Pan River — February

Midges primary (size 20-26). BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Large rainbows require 6X tippet and precise drifts. The Pan fishes when every other river is iced up.

Roaring Fork River — February

Midges continue. BWOs possible on warm/overcast days (size 20-22). Basalt section most reliable access in February. Upper Fork near Aspen can be iced over.

Cache la Poudre River — February

Midges continue. BWOs picking up on warm/cloudy days (size 20-22). The Poudre fishes when mountain rivers are locked up — a key Front Range winter option for Fort Collins anglers.

Taylor River — February

Midges (size 22-28) dominant. Reservoir keeps flows stable and temperatures consistent. One of Colorado's top winter tailwaters — fish are numerous and large. 6X tippet required.

Gunnison River — February

Midges continue. BWOs possible on warm/overcast days (size 20-22). Gunnison holds trophy-sized fish year-round but access requires planning. Gorge trails may be icy.

Eagle River — February

Midges continue. BWOs beginning on mild/cloudy days (size 20-22). Eagle sees heavy pressure near Vail/Avon but far less downstream toward Gypsum. February is a good time to explore lower sections.

Yampa River — February

Midges continue. BWOs possible on mild/overcast days (size 20-22). Lower Yampa near Craig sees less pressure than Steamboat and can produce well in late winter.

Rio Grande — February

Midges continue. BWOs possible on warm/sunny afternoons (size 20-22). South Fork section near Wagon Wheel Gap has better winter access than upper Creede reach. Worth the long drive if conditions cooperate.

Crystal River — February

Midges continue. BWOs possible on warm/cloudy days (size 20-22). Crystal fishes well in February when accessible. Carbondale section most reliable winter access.

Dolores River — February

Midges continue. BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). McPhee tailwater is one of Southwest Colorado's best winter fisheries. Cortez/Dolores area accessible when northern rivers are frozen.

North Platte River — February

Slate River — February

San Juan River — February

Animas River — February

East River — February

South Platte River — March

BWOs picking up strongly on overcast days (size 18-22). Midges still active. Best action 10am-2pm during hatches. Parachute BWO or Sparkle Dun.

Arkansas River — March

BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window can be excellent if flows stable. Check gauge before driving — runoff starts in late March some years.

Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — March

Blue River — March

Midges year-round. BWOs starting on cloudy days (size 20-22). Reservoir regulation means flows stay fishable regardless of snowpack.

Bear Creek — March

BWOs beginning (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window can be excellent on this beginner-accessible stream near Denver.

Colorado River — March

BWOs starting (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window — catch it before snowmelt starts. Big water, big fish, requires wading caution.

Frying Pan River — March

BWOs picking up strongly on cloudy days (size 18-20). Midges year-round. Ruedi Reservoir regulation means consistent flows regardless of snowpack — catch the pre-runoff window.

Roaring Fork River — March

BWOs picking up on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff March window can be outstanding on the Basalt section — catch it before snowmelt begins.

Cache la Poudre River — March

BWOs strong on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window can be excellent — March on the Poudre before snowmelt is often overlooked and very productive.

Taylor River — March

Midges year-round. BWOs possible on overcast days (size 20-22). Taylor Park is still cold in March — dress for mountain winter. Consistent flows regardless of upstream snowpack.

Gunnison River — March

BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window — Black Canyon access from East Portal opens as weather improves. March can be excellent before runoff builds.

Eagle River — March

BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff March window is often excellent. Vail Pass snowpack will push flows in weeks — catch the Eagle before it rises.

Yampa River — March

BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff fishing can be excellent in March. Yampa Valley warming up — catch it before Flattops and Rabbit Ears snowmelt arrives.

Rio Grande — March

BWOs starting (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window can be outstanding in the upper Gold Medal section. March Rio Grande is seriously underutilized.

Crystal River — March

BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Pre-runoff window on this smaller stream. March can be excellent for clear-water nymphing before Elk Mountain snowmelt starts.

Dolores River — March

BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Tailwater stability makes March excellent. Pre-runoff window while freestone rivers are still sketchy. An early-season gem.

North Platte River — March

Slate River — March

San Juan River — March

Animas River — March

East River — March

South Platte River — April

Strong BWO hatches on cloudy days (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. PMDs possible in warmer stretches. Good variety month — match what fish are eating.

Arkansas River — April

BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. Watch CFS closely — runoff can spike suddenly in April. Good fishing if you catch it right.

Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — April

Blue River — April

BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges continue. One of the best spring months on the Blue — stable flows while Front Range rivers start runoff.

Bear Creek — April

BWOs active (size 18-20). Early Caddis possible. Watch flows — spring runoff can blow this small stream out quickly. Always check the gauge.

Colorado River — April

BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis possible. Watch CFS closely — this big river can rise fast in April. Big water experience recommended.

Frying Pan River — April

BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis beginning in lower canyon (size 14-16). Consistent tailwater flows make April one of the best months before Front Range crowds arrive.

Roaring Fork River — April

BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis starting. Watch CFS — this freestone river begins rising in April from Elk Mountain snowmelt. Excellent fishing if you catch it before the rise.

Cache la Poudre River — April

BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis beginning (size 14-16). Golden Stoneflies starting in the canyon. Watch CFS — the Poudre can spike fast in April from Laramie Mountains drainage.

Taylor River — April

BWOs picking up (size 18-20). Midges active. Tailwater stability makes April excellent while freestone rivers blow out. Scenic Almont Canyon filling out with green. Pre-season crowds are low.

Gunnison River — April

BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. Watch CFS — this big river rises dramatically in April. Gunnison Gorge NCA access via North Rim trails. Streamers work well in higher flows.

Eagle River — April

BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. Watch CFS — Eagle blows out quickly from heavy Vail ski area snowpack. Best fishing early April before spring rise hits.

Yampa River — April

BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis starting (size 14-16). Watch CFS — Yampa runoff can be dramatic, fed by extensive Northwest Colorado snowpack. April window is narrow but productive.

Rio Grande — April

BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis possible. Watch CFS — Rio Grande can begin spring rise in April from San Juan Mountains snowmelt. Good fishing if you catch the early April window.

Crystal River — April

BWOs active (size 18-20). Caddis beginning. Crystal River is more sensitive to runoff than larger rivers — watch CFS carefully. Upper sections near Marble blow out faster than lower.

Dolores River — April

BWOs strong (size 18-20). Caddis beginning (size 14-16). One of the best April fisheries in the state — reservoir regulation keeps flows ideal while mountain rivers start blowing out.

North Platte River — April

Slate River — April

San Juan River — April

Animas River — April

East River — April

South Platte River — May

BWOs continue. Caddis (size 16-18) becoming active at dusk (Elk Hair Caddis). PMDs starting (size 16-18). Peak early-season variety.

Arkansas River — May

RUNOFF SEASON STARTING — CFS rising rapidly toward unfishable levels. Caddis (size 14-16) beginning heavy emergence. Check gauge every day.

Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — May

Blue River — May

BWOs active. Caddis possible (size 14-16). KEY ADVANTAGE: While Arkansas and South Platte may be in runoff, the Blue River tailwater stays fishable.

Bear Creek — May

RUNOFF RISK — small stream, very sensitive to snowmelt. CFS can spike fast and stay unfishable for weeks. Check gauge every single time.

Colorado River — May

RUNOFF SEASON — CFS rising toward unfishable wading levels. Float fishing possible at higher flows. Check back in late June or July.

Frying Pan River — May

BWOs and Caddis both emerging (size 14-16). PMDs starting (size 16-18). TAILWATER ADVANTAGE — while South Platte and Arkansas blow out, Frying Pan stays fishable and at its best.

Roaring Fork River — May

RUNOFF STARTING — CFS rising on upper sections. Lower near Glenwood may hold longer. Caddis (size 14-16) active when flows allow. Check gauge before driving from Denver.

Cache la Poudre River — May

RUNOFF RISK — CFS rising from Mummy Range snowmelt. Caddis (size 14-16) and Golden Stoneflies (size 8-12) active during flow windows. Below Joe Wright Reservoir section more stable.

Taylor River — May

BWOs and PMDs starting (size 16-18). Caddis (size 14-16) possible. TAILWATER ADVANTAGE — Taylor stays fishable through runoff season when Gunnison and Arkansas are blown.

Gunnison River — May

RUNOFF SEASON — heavy drainage from Elk Mountains and Blue Mesa. Caddis emerging during lower windows. The Gorge section may be blown out. Float anglers only in high water.

Eagle River — May

RUNOFF RISK — CFS rising rapidly from Vail Pass snowmelt. Caddis (size 14-16) and stoneflies active during lower flow windows. Check the Minturn gauge before making the I-70 drive.

Yampa River — May

RUNOFF SEASON — CFS rising rapidly. Yampa can run very high. Caddis hatching during flow windows. Salmonfly (Pteronarcys californica, size 4-8) beginning late May — one of the most exciting hatches in Colorado.

Rio Grande — May

RUNOFF SEASON — CFS rising rapidly. Rio Grande headwaters drain enormous San Juan Mountains snowpack — flows can exceed 3,000 CFS. Check gauge before the long drive from Denver.

Crystal River — May

RUNOFF RISK — small crystal-clear stream becomes high and turbid with heavy snowmelt from Elk Mountains. Check Redstone gauge before driving through Carbondale on Hwy 133.

Dolores River — May

BWOs and Caddis both active. TAILWATER ADVANTAGE — Dolores stays fishable during runoff season when other Southwest Colorado rivers are blown. McPhee releases are consistent.

North Platte River — May

Slate River — May

San Juan River — May

Animas River — May

East River — May

South Platte River — June

Caddis heavy in evenings (size 14-16). PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning 9-11am. Midges always. Golden Stoneflies possible. Best variety month of the year.

Arkansas River — June

Peak runoff — flows often 2,000+ CFS and unfishable for wading. Caddis hatching when flows allow. Check back in mid-to-late July for prime summer fishing.

Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — June

Blue River — June

Caddis emerging (size 14-16). PMDs possible (size 16-18). Tailwater stays consistent when other rivers blow out. Silverthorne section fishing well.

Bear Creek — June

Caddis active (size 14-16) when flows settle. Yellow Sally Stoneflies (size 14) — look for them on warm afternoons. Fun accessible dry fly fishing near Denver.

Colorado River — June

Peak runoff — often 5,000-10,000+ CFS. Dangerous for wading. Float trips possible with a guide. Check back mid-July for prime conditions.

Frying Pan River — June

Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Technical fishing — these rainbows have seen every pattern. Use 6X minimum, precise dead drifts. Pale Evening Duns possible.

Roaring Fork River — June

Peak runoff on upper Fork. Lower canyon near Glenwood may settle first. Caddis hatching when flows settle. Post-runoff July is often the best month of the year on the Fork.

Cache la Poudre River — June

Variable flows — canyon may still be running high early June. Caddis heavy (size 14-16). Golden Stonefly and Yellow Sally (size 14) active. Check flows before driving Poudre Canyon Hwy.

Taylor River — June

PMDs (size 16-18) and Caddis (size 14-16) both active. Consistent tailwater flows. Long days in the canyon. Water temp optimal for surface feeding. Prime Taylor conditions.

Gunnison River — June

Peak runoff — flows often too high and turbid for most wading. Lower river near Delta may settle faster. Check gauge daily. Excellent post-runoff fishing begins in July.

Eagle River — June

Variable runoff — flows elevated well into June some years. Caddis (size 14-16) and Golden Stoneflies when settled. Lower Eagle near Wolcott and Gypsum tends to settle before upper sections.

Yampa River — June

Runoff continuing through June. Salmonfly and Golden Stonefly (size 6-10) emerging when flows settle — if you can time this, it's extraordinary fishing with large aggressive trout. Craig section may settle before Steamboat.

Rio Grande — June

Peak runoff — Gold Medal section often unfishable through most of June. Lower section near Del Norte sometimes holds. Check gauge daily — post-runoff July is outstanding.

Crystal River — June

Variable — flows often too high early June. Caddis and Yellow Sally Stoneflies (size 14) active when settled. Lower sections near Carbondale clear and become fishable before upper reaches.

Dolores River — June

Caddis (size 14-16) active. PMDs possible (size 16-18). McPhee water releases for irrigation can affect flows — watch the gauge. When flows are right, June can be outstanding.

North Platte River — June

Slate River — June

San Juan River — June

Animas River — June

East River — June

South Platte River — July

PMDs dominant (size 16-18) hatching 9-11am — Parachute PMD or Sparkle Dun. Caddis at dusk. Tricos (size 20-24) early morning on slower stretches. Terrestrials starting.

Arkansas River — July

Flows dropping post-runoff — prime fishing window opening. Caddis (size 14-16) active. PMDs (size 16-18) beginning mid-morning. Gold Medal water at its best.

Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — July

Blue River — July

PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings (Elk Hair Caddis). Midges always present. Beginner-friendly consistent flows.

Bear Creek — July

Yellow Sally Stoneflies (size 14). Caddis (size 14-16). Terrestrials (ants #18, beetles) mid-day. Summer prime time if flows are 20-80 CFS sweet spot.

Colorado River — July

Post-runoff flows dropping. PMDs (size 14-16) emerging. Caddis (size 14-16). Green Drakes (size 10-12) BEGINNING — watch for this iconic hatch.

Frying Pan River — July

PMDs dominant (size 16-18) hatching 9-11am — Parachute PMD or Sparkle Dun. Caddis at dusk. Fish are extremely selective in summer. Smaller fly and finer tippet often wins.

Roaring Fork River — July

Post-runoff prime season. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings (Elk Hair Caddis). Upper Fork near Aspen excellent. Green Drakes (size 10-12) possible in July.

Cache la Poudre River — July

Prime fishing post-runoff. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Yellow Sally Stoneflies (size 14). Wild trout in the Gold Medal section above Rustic. One of the Poudre's best months.

Taylor River — July

PMDs dominant (size 16-18) morning hatches. Caddis evenings. Large selective trout require precise presentations — 5X minimum, technical dead drifts. This is the Taylor at full glory.

Gunnison River — July

Post-runoff prime time. Green Drakes (size 10-12) emerging — Gunnison is one of Colorado's premier Green Drake rivers. PMDs (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Pack in via Gorge trails.

Eagle River — July

Post-runoff prime time. PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings (Elk Hair Caddis). Golden Stoneflies still possible early July. Good hatches near Gypsum that most anglers ignore.

Yampa River — July

Post-runoff prime time. Caddis (size 14-16) heavy. PMDs (size 16-18) morning. Salmonfly late stragglers possible early July. The Yampa in July is at its best and sees a fraction of Front Range pressure.

Rio Grande — July

Post-runoff prime time. Caddis (size 14-16) active. PMDs (size 16-18). Streamer fishing for large browns. Gold Medal section near Wagon Wheel Gap at its absolute best in July.

Crystal River — July

Prime dry fly season. Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Yellow Sally Stoneflies (size 14) mid-afternoon. PMDs (size 16-18) possible. Stunning canyon setting, wild trout, minimal pressure.

Dolores River — July

PMDs (size 16-18) mid-morning. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials productive. Summer fishing depends on McPhee reservoir release levels — check CFS before making the long drive from Durango.

North Platte River — July

Slate River — July

San Juan River — July

Animas River — July

East River — July

South Platte River — August

PMDs continue (size 16-18). Tricos (size 20-24) early morning. Caddis evening. Terrestrials (ants #18-20, beetles, hoppers) productive mid-day. Hot summer fishing.

Arkansas River — August

PMDs dominant (size 16-18) hatching 9-11am. Caddis in evenings. Tricos possible. Terrestrials productive. Royal Gorge and Bighorn Canyon excellent.

Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — August

Blue River — August

PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials mid-day. Consistent flows make Blue River reliable when summer thunderstorms muddy other rivers.

Bear Creek — August

Terrestrials (ants #18-20, beetles, small hoppers #12-14) productive. Caddis evenings. Fish early morning before summer heat and weekend crowds.

Colorado River — August

GREEN DRAKES (size 10-12) at peak — one of the best dry fly hatches in all of Colorado. PMDs continue. Big fish rising to large flies. This is the month.

Frying Pan River — August

PMDs continue (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Tricos (size 22-24) possible in slower flats sections. Terrestrials mid-day. The Pan's trophy rainbows surface feed heavily in August.

Roaring Fork River — August

PMDs continue (size 16-18). Caddis (size 14-16) evenings. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) productive mid-day. Lower Fork near Glenwood has strong evening caddis action.

Cache la Poudre River — August

Caddis evenings (size 14-16). PMDs continue. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) productive mid-day. Wild brown and rainbow trout respond well. Less crowded than South Platte options.

Taylor River — August

PMDs continue (size 16-18). Caddis in evenings. Tricos (size 22-24) possible in slower flats below Almont. Terrestrials mid-day. Prime summer fishing — book the Almont campsite early.

Gunnison River — August

Green Drakes possible mid-morning (size 10-12) — if you see large fish rising to big flies, this is why. PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Gold Medal Gorge fishing at its absolute best.

Eagle River — August

PMDs continue. Caddis evenings (size 14-16). Terrestrials (ants, hoppers, beetles) productive mid-day. Eagle near Wolcott and Gypsum is significantly overlooked compared to the Vail stretch.

Yampa River — August

Caddis dominant evenings. PMDs continue. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) productive mid-day. Yampa brown trout respond aggressively to hoppers. Outstanding summer option well off the beaten path.

Rio Grande — August

PMDs continue (size 16-18). Caddis evenings. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) productive. Upper Gold Medal section near Creede and South Fork has excellent public access and very low pressure.

Crystal River — August

Caddis evenings (size 14-16). Yellow Sally possible early August. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) productive mid-day. Small stream character requires stealth — fish spook easily in clear water.

Dolores River — August

PMDs continue. Caddis evenings. Terrestrials (hoppers, ants) mid-day. Lower flows post-peak irrigation make August–September excellent for wading. Red Canyon section particularly productive.

North Platte River — August

Slate River — August

San Juan River — August

Animas River — August

East River — August

South Platte River — September

BWOs return strong on cloudy days (size 18-20) — best dry fly month of the year on the Platte. PMDs tapering. Streamer fishing productive.

Arkansas River — September

PMDs tapering. BWOs returning on cloudy days (size 18-20). Caddis possible. Excellent fall fishing — this is one of Colorado's best fall rivers.

Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — September

Blue River — September

BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Midges picking up. Fall fishing excellent — consistent tailwater flows, less pressure than Front Range.

Bear Creek — September

BWOs returning (size 18-20). Caddis possible. Fall is a hidden gem — less pressure, active fish, cooling water. Denver anglers overlook this.

Colorado River — September

Green Drakes tapering. BWOs returning on cloudy days (size 18-20). PMDs possible. Fall streamer fishing for aggressive large trout.

Frying Pan River — September

BWOs returning strong on overcast days (size 18-20) — the best dry fly month on the Pan. PMDs tapering. Cool air triggers excellent hatches. This is prime Frying Pan season.

Roaring Fork River — September

BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Caddis possible. Excellent fall fishing — less pressure, active fish, cooling water. Fork brown trout are large in September.

Cache la Poudre River — September

BWOs returning (size 18-20). Caddis possible. Excellent fall fishing — the canyon below Ted's Place has easy access and less pressure than Front Range competition.

Taylor River — September

BWOs returning strong on overcast days (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Midges year-round. Outstanding fall fishing — tailwater stability, cool evenings, fish feeding aggressively.

Gunnison River — September

BWOs returning (size 18-20). Green Drakes tapering. PMDs possible. Fall fishing on the Gunnison Gorge is world-class — trophy fish, remote canyon, turning aspen above the rim.

Eagle River — September

BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Caddis possible. Good fall fishing — Eagle brown trout become aggressive. Less pressure than September on the South Platte.

Yampa River — September

BWOs returning (size 18-20). Caddis possible. September on the Yampa is the best-kept secret in Colorado fly fishing — large browns, zero pressure, fall colors, bugling elk.

Rio Grande — September

BWOs returning strong (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Caddis possible. September on the Rio Grande is outstanding — cool nights, active fish, striking fall colors, minimal crowds.

Crystal River — September

BWOs returning (size 18-20). Caddis possible. Fall fishing is a hidden gem — light pressure, wild trout, beautiful Crystal Valley scenery below Marble. One of Colorado's most scenic autumn options.

Dolores River — September

BWOs returning (size 18-20). PMDs tapering. Midges picking up. Fall fishing excellent — Dolores tailwater is significantly less crowded than northern Colorado rivers in September.

North Platte River — September

Slate River — September

San Juan River — September

Animas River — September

East River — September

South Platte River — October

Best BWO month — heavy hatches on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for aggressive pre-winter fish.

Arkansas River — October

Best BWO month (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing productive. Royal Gorge corridor excellent in October.

Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — October

Blue River — October

Best BWO month (size 18-20). Midges dominant. Flows consistent. Fewer crowds than South Platte in October.

Bear Creek — October

BWOs on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges picking up. CDOW stocks heavily — stockers respond to egg patterns and bright attractor flies.

Colorado River — October

BWOs strong on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for large fish before winter. Remote and uncrowded.

Frying Pan River — October

BWOs at peak (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for aggressive large rainbows and browns. One of the most beautiful fall fisheries in Colorado. Fewer crowds after Labor Day.

Roaring Fork River — October

BWOs peak on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamers for large fish. The Roaring Fork in October is an underrated fall gem — one of Colorado's best.

Cache la Poudre River — October

BWOs strong on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Brown trout pre-spawn activity excellent. Poudre Canyon fall foliage is outstanding — worth the drive from Fort Collins.

Taylor River — October

BWOs at peak (size 18-20). Midges dominant. Streamer fishing for aggressive fish before winter. Taylor in October is exceptional — fewer people, exceptional fish activity.

Gunnison River — October

BWOs strong (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for large trophy fish. Gunnison Gorge in October requires physical fitness — 4 trail options, all steep. Rewards exceptional.

Eagle River — October

BWOs strong on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamers for large pre-spawn browns. Eagle River fall fishing is the most underutilized angling in the I-70 corridor.

Yampa River — October

BWOs strong (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for large pre-spawn browns. Craig and the lower Yampa Canyon fishing well in October. 4WD recommended for some access points.

Rio Grande — October

BWOs peak (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for pre-winter fish. Rio Grande is remote enough that October sees minimal pressure and very aggressive fish.

Crystal River — October

BWOs on overcast days (size 18-20). Midges picking up. Streamer fishing for larger fish. Crystal River in October sees almost no angling pressure — explore the canyon.

Dolores River — October

BWOs peak (size 18-20). Midges dominant. Streamer fishing for aggressive browns. Southwest Colorado October fishing is an underrated and beautiful experience.

North Platte River — October

Slate River — October

San Juan River — October

Animas River — October

East River — October

South Platte River — November

BWOs on warm/cloudy afternoons (size 20-22). Midges dominant. Streamers for big fish. Water cooling and clearing fast.

Arkansas River — November

BWOs on overcast afternoons. Midges dominant. Streamer fishing for large browns. Flows stable and clear.

Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — November

Blue River — November

Midges primary. BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Reliable year-round — reservoir regulation maintains fishable conditions through late fall.

Bear Creek — November

Midges primary. BWOs possible on mild afternoons. Stream slowing for winter. Small stream winter fishing for the dedicated.

Colorado River — November

Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing. Big remote river — fewer crowds, serious fish.

Frying Pan River — November

Midges dominant (size 20-26). BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Streamer fishing productive. Reservoir regulation keeps flows consistent through late fall. The Pan never really stops fishing.

Roaring Fork River — November

Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for large pre-spawn browns. Flows dropping and clearing. Upper Fork near Aspen cooling fast.

Cache la Poudre River — November

Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for large browns. Canyon narrows above Poudre Park are beautiful in November. Light pressure.

Taylor River — November

Midges (size 22-28) primary. BWOs on cloudy afternoons. Reservoir regulation keeps flows consistent through late fall. The Taylor in November is an underrated gem for serious anglers.

Gunnison River — November

Midges dominant. BWOs on overcast afternoons. Streamers for large fish. Black Canyon section requires technical scrambling — plan carefully, check trail conditions.

Eagle River — November

Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for spawning browns. Flows dropping and clearing post-fall. Gypsum section most reliable November access.

Yampa River — November

Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing. Steamboat Springs section accessible year-round through town. Yampa winding down for the season.

Rio Grande — November

Midges dominant. BWOs on mild afternoons. Streamer fishing for large browns. Upper valley cools fast — check road conditions for Creede and South Fork access as snow arrives.

Crystal River — November

Midges primary. BWOs on mild afternoons. Small stream winter fishing for the dedicated. Crystal Valley scenery spectacular in fall. Upper sections begin icing over.

Dolores River — November

Midges primary. BWOs on mild afternoons. Tailwater stays fishable. Cortez/Dolores area has milder late-fall weather than mountain towns. Good option when high country is locked up.

North Platte River — November

Slate River — November

San Juan River — November

Animas River — November

East River — November

South Platte River — December

Midges (size 22-26) are primary. Occasional BWO on mild days. Streamers for large fish in deep runs. Cold and clear.

Arkansas River — December

Midges (size 22-26) primary. BWOs on mild days. Streamers. Fish slow-moving deep runs.

Arkansas River — Pueblo Tailwater — December

Blue River — December

Midges (size 22-26) year-round dominant. Occasional BWO on mild days. Flows remain consistent through winter. Cold but reliably fishable.

Bear Creek — December

Midges (size 22-24) primary. Low flows typical — below 15 CFS is tough. Fish deep pools and slow runs with nymph rigs.

Colorado River — December

Midges (size 20-24) primary. Streamers for large fish in deep runs. Cold and remote. Dress for mountain winter conditions.

Frying Pan River — December

Midges (size 20-26) primary. Consistent tailwater flows year-round. Large fish active in cold water. Cold canyon conditions — dress warmly and watch for ice in rod guides.

Roaring Fork River — December

Midges (size 20-24) primary. Streamers in deep runs. Lower section near Glenwood most accessible in winter. Cold canyon — Basalt section fishable with proper preparation.

Cache la Poudre River — December

Midges (size 22-26) primary. Fish accessible lower canyon sections. Cold conditions — Poudre Canyon Hwy can be icy. Check CDOT road conditions before driving.

Taylor River — December

Midges (size 22-28) year-round. Tailwater maintains fishable temps and flows through December. Cold mountain valley — dress for it. World-class winter tailwater fishing.

Gunnison River — December

Midges (size 20-24) primary. Streamers in deep runs. Cold and remote — this is for dedicated anglers. Gorge trail access can be treacherous with snow and ice.

Eagle River — December

Midges (size 22-26) primary. Cold I-70 corridor conditions. Fish deep pools in Gypsum section. Light pressure December through February — the Eagle to yourself.

Yampa River — December

Midges (size 20-24) primary. Cold Northwest Colorado conditions — temperatures can drop sharply. Fish deep runs near Steamboat Springs. Dress for Routt County winter.

Rio Grande — December

Midges (size 20-24) primary. Cold San Luis Valley conditions — frigid nights common. The long drive from Denver requires a commitment. Check flows and weather before going.

Crystal River — December

Midges (size 22-24) primary. Small stream, cold conditions. Fish accessible lower sections near Carbondale only. Road access above Redstone becomes limited with winter snowfall.

Dolores River — December

Midges (size 20-24) year-round below McPhee. Consistent tailwater flows through December. Southwest Colorado location means more fishable winter days than higher-elevation rivers.

North Platte River — December

Slate River — December

San Juan River — December

Animas River — December

East River — December