Fishing Report For the Arkansas Tailwater
October 30th, 2026
Arkansas River Tailwater below Pueblo Reservoir (Pueblo Tailwater)
General Overview
Conditions Update: With the recent rains, flows have been increased and we're seeing diminished clarity. We do expect for clarity to return but we may be getting close to the lake turning over so we'd expect for it to remain tinted for awhile. The fishing may be a bit challenging over the next few days as flows move around, but as soon as flows stabilize, the below report will be accurate...
The Arkansas Tailwater continues to offer productive late-season fishing, although recent rainfall and lake turnover have brought increased flows and diminished water clarity. While conditions aren't quite as ideal as we've seen in recent weeks, fishing remains solid, and we expect some improvement in clarity as flows stabilize. Cooler water temperatures and consistent insect activity continue to keep trout feeding, particularly during the warmer midday hours.
BWOs and Midges are driving much of the daily feeding activity, with Midge lifecycles becoming increasingly important as we move into November. We've also seen some impressive late-season Caddis activity adding to the mix. Nymphing and Dry/Dropper setups remain productive, with small BWO and Midge imitations leading the way. Be prepared to switch to small dries and emergers when fish begin working the surface. The 9 AM–3 PM window remains your best bet, as warmer midday temperatures encourage increased insect and trout activity. With lighter crowds and improving conditions anticipated as flows settle, November should continue to offer some excellent Tailwater opportunities. Keep an eye on conditions and take advantage of those warmer fall days!
Questions or ready to book a trip to learn the Tailwater better? We're the oldest outfitter on the Tailwater and our guides are excellent. Please call us at (719) 371-4530, or visit our Guide Trips online to inquire about availability if you're interested in booking a trip.
Stream Conditions
Clarity: Stained, 12-18"...but improving
Suggested Methods
A variety of methods are getting it done on the Arkansas Tailwater right now, with Double Dry and Dry/Dropper rigs continuing to be some of our favorite approaches. The combination of strong Fall BWO, Midge, and Caddis activity has created excellent opportunities to target fish feeding throughout the water column. When trout are actively working the surface, a small BWO or tan Caddis paired with a trailing BWO emerger or Midge imitation can be an extremely productive combination. Pay close attention to the prevailing hatch, and don't hesitate to adjust fly size, leader length, and tippet diameter to fool more selective fish.
Subsurface fishing remains equally productive, particularly when fish are holding in deeper runs, riffles, and seams. Small BWO nymphs, Caddis Pupa, Midge Larvae, and emergers should all be part of your rotation. Dry/Dropper setups are a great option for covering shallower holding water, while Double Nymph rigs allow you to effectively target fish feeding deeper in the column. With improved flows and excellent water temperatures, trout are actively utilizing a broader range of holding water, so don't overlook productive riffles and transitional water.
The biggest key right now is versatility. Let the fish and the active insect lifecycles dictate your approach, stay observant, and be ready to transition between subsurface and surface presentations as feeding activity changes throughout the day.