Where You Should Fly Fish in Colorado this May

Heading out on a fishing excursion in Colorado this month?  Here’s a tip on where you should go in the beautiful Centennial State.

Arkansas River

Flowing to the east and south east one of the most popular locations is the Arkansas River. With many people interested in the different activities that the river has to offer you can find that the Arkansas River has so much to offer for many people of different interests. Although rafting is a very popular activity within this river you can still find yourself fly fishing in a very remote location that has a very scenic view. Famous for its trout the Brown and Rainbow trout are the most recognized fish in this area. With the Arkansas River being the sixth-longest river in the United States and the 45^th longest river in the world it is a river to be reckoned with.

Image courtesy of YouTube

Gunnison River

Formed by the confluence of Taylor and East rivers at Almont in eastern Gunnison county the Gunnison River is the 5^th largest tributary of the Colorado River. Looking for a true mountain fishing experience? With the elevation a little over 8000 ft and the lower section of the Gunnison River being designated as a gold medal water we call this wild trout water for a reason. Fun fact: To be considered Gold Medal waters a body of water must be able to support 60 pounds of trout per acres as well as support a minimum of 12 quality trout per acre.  Named the eagle, Eagle Tail, South Fork of the Grand, Grande & The Grand River this river has great history behind it. Great referred to as the Grand River this river was officially renamed for U.S. Army Captain John W. Gunnison who was an engineer who was ambushed and killed by Pahvant Utes while mapping out a trail west in the Utah Territories.

Steamboat Lake State Park

Looking for some fat fish?! Steamboat has you covered. These fish eat well and have a lot of fight in them so if you’re looking for a fish that is going to give you a challenge Steamboat should be on your list! Steamboat Lake State Park takes pride in their cleanliness so if you’re looking for a campground to stay at while you embark on your fishing adventure this is a park to consider. The sites are very spread out and roomy. Swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding and more!

Image courtesy of Colorado.com

Animas River

If you happen to find yourself south of Colorado near the four borders the first place you need to consider is the Animas River. This 126-mile-long river is every angler’s dream. This river travels through Durango and the San Juan Forest. Other than Fly Fishing it is a great location to take a hike or jog amongst the paths alongside the river in town. Whatever floats your boat, you are guaranteed to find a beautiful sight around every mountain. The Animas is a freestone fishery containing an abundance of rainbow, brown, Colorado River cutthroat, and brook trout. Along with the Gunnison River the Animas river is recognized as a gold medal fishery above Rivera Bridge Crossing in Colorado. As the different types of bugs start emerging you will start such as: Mayflies, Caddisfly & Mayfly the more different snacks for the fish the more different types of you to catch!

Image courtesy of Scott Willoughby, The Denver Post

What kind of fish can I expect to catch?

There is a plethora of different fish you can expect to find in these rivers and Rainbow Trout is one of them. This fish dominates the rivers in the Colorado area, along with the Brown Trout which has an abundance on this location. If you’ve ever said there’s plenty of fish in the sea, you’re right, they are here in our rivers. Another thing we are proud to call ours is the Cutthroat Trout. This is the official state fish of Colorado and rightfully so, since it is the only trout native to our land! Along with fish to be on the lookout for is our Lake Trout which is known for its size. Kokanee Salmon, Wiper Fish, Mountain Whitefish, Large Mouth Bass & Northern Pike. We have the fish that you’re looking for! So, what’re you waiting… for the great outdoors is waiting for you.