The Arkansas from Leadville to Buena Vista:
With the lower valleys seeing some warm temperatures, it is time to fish the high mountain streams. This section fishes at its best right now, with a full spectrum of insects hatching. Looks for caddis, mayflies, drakes, stones, and terrestrials on a daily basis.
The South Platte above Spinney Reservoir:
This section is very similar to the upper Arkansas and will fish much the same way. Looks for the full spectrum of insects hatching and the trout to be ready to eat your flies. Fish the runs, pools, riffles, and especially the cutbanks for an opportunity to catch a large South Platte trout.
The Williams Fork below Williams Fork Reservoir:
While sections of the Colorado River are closed due to warm temperatures, the Williams Fork below Williams Fork reservoir is running at a great level and is cold. You will have to hike in, but it can be well worth it. Look for caddis, mayflies, stoneflies, and drakes to be hatching. Don’t be surprised if you hook into a fish over the eighteen-inch range as this tailwater can grow some healthy trout.
The Roaring Fork from Aspen to Basalt:
This is one of the best times of year to fish this section. There are lots of bugs hatching on this section of the river this time of year. Fishing with a dry dropper is a great technique, but this is also a favorite time of year to fish a single dry. One thing to watch out for is the slippery rocks, so careful wading is advised.
High Country alpine lakes and streams:
There really is no better time for fishing the high country alpine lakes and streams. The lakes have iced off and hungry trout are cruising the bank lines of these high country gems. You will have to spend some time hiking in, but these hikes are in beautiful places and you might also be able to fish one of the high country streams loaded with hungry trout on the way up. Just make sure to check the weather and watch out for afternoon thunderstorms.
