Colorado River - Upper

Colorado River - Upper

CO

River

About Colorado River - Upper

The Upper Colorado River, specifically the Pumphouse section, offers over three miles of easily accessible wade fishing renowned for its populations of rainbow trout, brown trout, and Colorado whitefish. This tailwater, which fishes like a freestone, presents varied water types including long riffles, braided sections for easy wading, and deeper pools, providing excellent opportunities even with limited visibility, allowing for lighter tippet sizes. Productive fly fishing techniques include nymphing, dry fly fishing, and streamer fishing, with key insect hatches to target being Caddis, Pale Morning Duns (PMDs), and Stoneflies. For anglers seeking solitude, hiking upstream into Gore Canyon presents a more challenging, yet rewarding, fly fishing experience.

Access

Easy Access

Seasons

SpringSummerFall

Terrain

High AltitudeScenic Valley

Water

FreestoneLarge River

Fish Species

Brown Trout

Rainbow Trout

Fishing Styles

Dry FlyNymphing

undefined USGS Water Conditions

Water conditions for the last 7 days. You can gain insights to fishing activity based on these conditions, like water temperature and flow.

Methods

Wade Friendly

Drift Boat Only

Land Ownership

Public Blm

Public Forest Service

Quick Actions

Location

Trip Planning

Best fishing typically occurs during spring and summer. Check water conditions before heading out.

For more insight on the conditions, including hatches and water temperatures, check out the Hatch Forecast.