While clarity hasn't been exceptional fishing continues to be productive for our float guides. We're not quite in flow-range where we recommend wading, and with the clarity you can't see your feet. However, we feel that we're not far away from returning clarity (Summer Green), and a bit lower flows that will be more manageable for the wade angler.
Theres alot of bug activity on the Tailwater just like all of our other watersheds in Summer Primetime! Fish continue to be opportunistic on streamers and larger attractor nymphs, but we're also beginning to see fish key on Tricos, PMDs, Caddis, and other sundry Summer hatches.
Ready to see the Arkansas Tailwater from a different perspective? Book one of our fantastic float guides while the conditions are prime!! CLICK HERE for more info!
Above Pueblo Flowrate: 782cfs
Clarity: 18"
We've transitioned to bigger attractor nymphs for our subsurface rigs, with a heavy focus on smaller rubberleg stones, worms, and cranefly larva. Make sure you're using plenty of weight in your nymph rigs in higher flows. Our guides will also lean heavily on streamers...run either tandem rigs or larger articulate patterns for best success. In addition, we've begun to see fish make a move to Summer hatch matchers such as Tricos, Tan & Olive Caddis, and PMDs...so be ready with the full lifecycle of those bugs.
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...