Spring Fling: Fly Fishing On Colorado's West Slope
Colorado is known for its iconic mountainscapes, wilderness and outdoor adventures. When on the Western Slope, warmer temperatures mean spring recreational activities like fly fishing are more plentiful and accessible.
Photos courtesy of Aspen Outfitting Company.
The Centennial State has over 105,000 miles of rivers, 6,000 miles of streams and more than 1,300 lakes and reservoirs, which provide opportunities for magnificent fly fishing. These waterways hold 35 different species of warm-water and cold-water fish. Fly fishing continues to grow in popularity as it is a much more active pastime than conventional fishing. Flyfishing uses a different rod and reel, an artificial lightweight lure (known as a fly) and a weighted fly line.
“The technique for casting is different [from conventional fishing] as it provides a therapeutic zen between the angler and the water,” says Jeff McKenna, outfitter and guide with Colorado West Slope Fly Fishing.
Springtime snowmelt allows rivers and lakes to flourish, thus the habitats for fish to thrive as well. Western Colorado is home to many famous waterways, including but not limited to the Colorado River, the Roaring Fork River, the Eagle River, the Frying Pan River, the Gunnison River and the Uncompaghre River. “Our local rivers provide excellent fisheries for both walk-wading and float trips for beginning to advanced anglers,” shares McKenna.
Other great bodies of water to consider fly fishing this spring that don’t face the challenge of runoff are still-water lakes and reservoirs. “Colorado State Parks are easy to access and provide really great fishing opportunities,” explains McKenna.
He suggests exploring places like Vega State Park, Rifle or Harvey Gap State Parks, Crawford State Park, the James M. Robb Colorado River State Park and its different sections, Highline Lake State Park and/or Ridgway State Park .Whether casting from a boat, balancing on a paddleboard or wading along the shores, flyfishing at a nearby state park is a wonderful option. “Early spring can be an outstanding time to fish rivers, but it can be an even better time to hit the lakes and reservoirs, as the fish have been under ice all winter long,” remarks McKenna.
Fly fishing can be good no matter what, but here are some tips from McKenna to consider before heading out the door:
Pay attention to the flow of the river you’re going to fish.
•SAFETY — Make sure the water is not flowing too fast.
•SNOWMELT — If it is happening too fast,it can be a shock to the fish, and theywon’t want to eat.
•SIGHT — What’s the clarity of the water?
Pay attention to the overnight temperatures.
•Mild temperatures provide more consistent fishing. Springtime fishing can be challenging but very rewarding!
•If it’s a cold day, consider the depth of water to fish.
Pay attention to the emergence of aquatic insects.
•As midge or baetis hatches start, the fishing can be epic.
•After a long winter, fish want to eat.
Like the tributaries that make the rivers, individual people contribute to Colorado as a whole. “When you’re out fly fishing, keep the zen real,” McKenna suggests. “Help fish to stay healthy and minimize air exposure, reduce handling time and release them back into the water.
If you’re looking for a guided fly fishing trip, here are a few outfitters and shops to start your fly fishing endeavors.
Aspen Outfitting Company
970.925.3406
Colorado West Slope Fly Fishing
970.778.2906
coloradowestslopeflyfishing.com
Harcourt Fly Fishing 3G
970.404.1339
Montrose Anglers
970.249.0408
Black Canyon Anglers
970.835.5050
Colorado Angling Company
970.368.5959
Originally published in the Spring 2023 issue of Spoke+Blossom.