With cooling weather across the state, the native runoff on the Upper Arkansas has subsided...thus corresponding native pass-through on the Tailwater has reduced. Flows should hold in the 550-750cfs window through the weekend with no real hot weather in the forecast to bring melt down upstream. Fishing has continued to be red-hot for the most part, and our guides have been successful both walk-wading and floating.
BWO and Midge activity has been strong, and Caddis activity is coming along near the substrate. Typically you'll find Midges out when the sun is high. On overcast days, the BWO hatch activity can be substantial. With increased release, also be sure to be prepared with San Juan Worms, Cranefly Larva, Leeches, and some Small Stonefly Nymphs. Overall fishing has been very good in the last few weeks, but make sure you're stealthy and fishing long leaders and light tippet for best success.
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Above Pueblo Flowrate: 599cfs ~ Approx 630cfs below the hatchery
Clarity: Clear to Tinted
We have continued to see strong BWO and Midge hatch activity, and those bugs will always be producers in the Spring months. During "Spring Primetime" it will be key to have your substrate nymph rig dialed in on the midge and Baetis (BWO) scene. As with any watershed, look for your heavy hatches before switching to dries, but especially in the early Spring...deep nymphing will be your best producer throughout the day. Don't forget a small leech pattern dead drifted or on the swing...as that will still be a producer as it was in the early Spring. As water temps rise slightly, look for Caddis activity to increase...so be ready with the full lifecycle of slighter profile caddis as well. Streamer fishing will really start to come around with more water, so make sure you have some leeches and larger attractor streamers on hand...
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...