Fishing Report For the Arkansas Tailwater
September 1st, 2025
Arkansas River Tailwater below Pueblo Reservoir (Pueblo Tailwater)
General Overview
As we turn the corner into September, fishing can really ramp up on the tailwater. If flows can hold in a strong range above 200cfs, the cooler weather gets fishing alot more consistent and we begin to see some strong Fall BWO activity.
We're seeing some big fish early in the morning and the late afternoon/ evening can be strong as well on the cooler overcast days. Bug activity is certainly focused on the Trico and Midge populations and there are a few Caddis out there. Nymphing will be your staple, but don't leave the single dry fly and streamer rods at home.
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
Flowrate: 428 cfs (plus ~25 cfs out of the Hatchery)
Clarity: Summer Green Tint (Approx 18"-2ft of Viz)
Suggested Methods
A variety of methods will take fish on the Tailwater, but focus on your smaller flies (BWO's, Tricos, Midges). We do like to run a variety of attractor nymphs at higher flows that land in the Caddis, PMD and Worm categories. Nymphing will be your staple but Dry/ Dropper can also be effective on the edges. Don't be afraid to bring a streamer rod though, as we're seeing some nice fish taken on tandem streamer rigs especially in the early morning and evenings.
