Colorado River
OptimalColorado
Current Conditions
The Colorado River is running at 962 CFS — ideal conditions. Expect clear water and excellent dry fly opportunities.
Last updated: Jul 7, 2026, 5:15 PM from USGS gauge 09058000 (Colorado River near Kremmling)
7-Day Flow Trend
Flow thresholds: Optimal 500–1200 CFS | Fishable to 3000 CFS | Marginal to 5000 CFS
Water Temperature
Water temperature is in the optimal range for trout. Expect good insect activity and feeding.
About the Colorado River
The Colorado River headwaters offer excellent fishing from its origin near Rocky Mountain National Park through the mountain valleys of Grand and Eagle counties. Underrated water that fishes well in the upper reaches.
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Caddis Elk Hair Caddis #14 | ||||||||||||
Blue-Winged Olive BWO Parachute #18 | ||||||||||||
Pale Morning Dun PMD Sparkle Dun #16 | ||||||||||||
Hopper Dave's Hopper #8 |
Active Hatches — July
Patterns: Elk Hair Caddis #14, Peacock Caddis
Patterns: PMD Sparkle Dun #16
Patterns: Dave's Hopper #8
River Sections
Kremmling to State Bridge
float access962 CFS
Upper Colorado through ranch country. Good float fishing with browns and rainbows.
State Bridge to Dotsero
float access1,450 CFS
Remote canyon section with excellent solitude. Large browns in deep pools.
Guides on the Colorado River(30)
These fishing guides list the Colorado River as one of their home waters.
Almont Anglers
Almont, Colorado
Angler’s All
Littleton, Colorado
Aspen Flyfishing Guide Service
Aspen, Colorado
Bill Dvorak’s Expeditions
Nathrop, Colorado
Blue River Anglers
Frisco, Colorado
Breckenridge Outfitters
Breckenridge, Colorado
Bucking Rainbow Outfitters
Steamboat Spgs, Colorado
C Lazy U Ranch
Colorado
Colorado River Fly Fishing
New Castle, Colorado
Colorado River Outfitters
Bond, Colorado
Cutthroat Anglers
Silverthorne, Colorado
Fly Fishing Outfitters
Avon, Colorado
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to fish the Colorado River?+
The Colorado River fishes well from spring through fall. Peak dry fly season is typically June through September. The best hatches occur during summer months with PMDs and caddis. Fall brings excellent streamer fishing and fewer crowds.
What flies work on the Colorado River in July?+
In July, the Colorado River sees Caddis, Pale Morning Dun, Hopper activity. Top patterns include Elk Hair Caddis #14, PMD Sparkle Dun #16, Dave's Hopper #8. Always carry a selection of nymphs as well.
How many fishing guides operate on the Colorado River?+
Avonture lists 30 fishing guides who operate on the Colorado River. These guides offer local knowledge of hatches, access points, and current conditions that can significantly improve your experience.
What is the current flow on the Colorado River?+
The Colorado River's flow data is updated every 30 minutes from USGS gauge stations (waterdata.usgs.gov). Check the top of this page for current CFS readings, fishability status, and a 7-day flow trend chart. Optimal fishing flows are 500–1200 CFS.
What fish species are in the Colorado River?+
The Colorado River primarily holds wild brown trout and rainbow trout. Fish sizes vary by section, with tailwater reaches typically holding larger fish.
Quick Conditions
Fishability Thresholds