Arkansas River (Lower Freestone Basin)

General Overview

Its been a phenomenal week of fishing on the mighty Ark. We always see a big uptick in activity when we start to see the transition into Fall, and this year is no exception. Cool overnight lows up and down the Upper and Lower Basins combined with exceptional clarity and bug activity have allowed for great days on the water as of late. While floating is obviously an obstacle at this level, wading and access could not be easier and fish are condensed into deeper slots and tail-outs...its a target rich environment. 

We've now seen flows in the 300cfs range for just over 2 weeks after the release reduction at Twin Lakes (end of the Voluntary Flow Management Program). The trout population has responded very positively after finding feeding lies and settling back in. In addition, the forecast is extremely positive with move into more seasonal temperatures...both of which will only increase productivity! Lastly, the Brown Trout population will be entering pre-spawn (we've already seen some colored up fish)...so, that large segment of the population will be very opportunistic. Though float fishing has become very technical, wading and access doesn't get any easier. All in all, we should have some exceptional fishing as we move through September and the early Fall time period! 

For guided trip bookings on the Arkansas Freestone/ Tailwater, other drainages and our private ranches..... Call Us Toll Free (888) 994-6743 or CLICK HERE for more information.

Stream Conditions

Wellsville Flowrate: 315 CFS 

Canon City Flowrate: 247 CFS 

Clarity: Gin Clear

**Project releases are finished as of August 15th with the end of the Voluntary Flow Management Program. We expect flows to be in the 300cfs range for the remainder of August and into the Fall.

Suggested Methods

We're now seeing a clear transition to Fall fishing on the Freestone! Fish continue to be very opportunistic during low-light time periods on Streamers and Dry/Dropper rigs. The bug menu consists of continued strong Red Quill lifecycle activity, PMDs, Pseudo Baetis (Fall BWOs), Tricos, Leeches, Midges and Tricos. Immature Stoneflies and Caddis are always part of the program, especially as attractor flies in nymphing rigs. As the Brown Trout population enters pre-spawn look for them to be veracious feeders in attempt to gain as many calories as they can prior to spawning in October...that will mean alot of fun streamer and attractor dry fishing for anglers. In short, however, be prepared to cover the entire water column depending on weather and conditions. 

Royal Gorge Anglers operates the oldest fly fishing guide service and full service flyshop on the Arkansas River Freestone and Arkansas River Tailwater. Our guide service also offers various guided fly fishing experiences on the South Platte River, Gunnison River, Stillwater, Private Ranches, Backcountry and more. CLICK HERE to Learn more about our Guided Trip Options or Call us (888) 994-6743 ext 2 to talk to us directly...

Arkansas River (Upper Freestone Basin)

General Overview

*Note: Please CLICK HERE for Chaffee County’s current restrictions and guidance for recreation.

We're now moving into the early Fall season on the Upper Basin. Overnight lows are cooling down, flows are low and fishing is more technical. That being said, our Brown Trout population isn't far from pre-spawn, so they will continue to be very opportunistic on Dry/ Dropper rigs and Streamers...especially early and late. 

Stream Conditions

Leadville Flowrate: 23 CFS

Granite Flowrate: 170 CFS

Salida Flowrate: 284 CFS

Clarity: Gin Clear

Suggested Methods