Imagine over a 100-mile radius of diverse public lands, rich with natural beauty and fishing in every direction. On the Western Slope of Colorado, Ridgway is at the center of this region, divided into two distinct US Forest Service districts: Uncompahgre, Gunnison, Grand Mesa National Forest and the San Juan National Forest. Together, they encompass landscapes ranging from thick aspen and evergreen forests to high desert mesas dotted with sagebrush and piñon pine. Towering peaks of the San Juan Mountains and West Elk Wilderness rise on either side of dramatic landmarks like the Grand Mesa, Curecanti National Recreation Area, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area, and the San Juan Mountain Range. From these mountains, plateaus and highlands, an intricate network of rivers and creeks, such as the Gunnison, Uncompahgre, Dolores, San Miguel, Cimarrons, Little Blue, and Taylor rivers, flow down into the valleys, offering world-class fishing opportunities for trout and other cold-water species. These pristine waters are a haven for anglers, with everything from remote alpine lakes and streams to legendary tailwaters drawing fly fishers from around the world.
Best Fly Fishing Season in Colorado? Don’t Overlook Early Spring through Early Summer
Shoulder seasons like late winter into spring/early summer can offer rewarding opportunities if attuned to evolving conditions and year-to-year changes that drive trout feeding behavior. Temperature and varied weather determine everything in these hidden seasons, depending on snowpack and precipitation. If you learn to adjust, play the conditions, and fight the desire for a perfect weather day, you will encounter exceptional fishing.
Walk Wade on the Gunnison River
The Magic of Timing
Every year, spring and early summer bring run-off and a variety of fishing conditions to Colorado. You can try to predict or say you don’t fish dirty water, but you may miss out on fantastic opportunities if you play conditions to your advantage. After a long winter, trout are ready to feed, with warming trends and active aquatic life this can be the perfect time to get on the water. The San Juan Mountains, Uncompahgre Plateau, and West Elk Mountains’ snowpack start to melt at various times so watching the temperatures and water gauges is essential. Rivers like the Gunnison, San Miguel, and Uncompahgre surge, then stabilize, sometimes multiple times, before providing consistent summer flows. But during those in-between times of temperature change, descending flows, and cooler days, anglers can take advantage of low crowds, good light, and pockets where trout feed heavily with increased food production as they bulk up for runoff.
The fly fishing seasons in Colorado, especially our unique shoulder seasons, offer opportunities from February through mid-June, before summer business arrives in Ouray County and the surrounding region. Don’t be put off by slightly off-color water or the change of season; vary your fishing locations and focus based on what’s available, and don’t rule out those early stillwater fisheries too (especially before they are affected by draw down for the coming runoff).
Top Fly Patterns for Early Spring to Early Summer in SW Colorado
Changing out subsurface flies for success on the Lower Gunnison
Early Spring Subsurface Success
Success during the early fly fishing season in Colorado often comes down to fly selection and matching your patterns to river conditions. In the early spring months, cold water temperatures and slower currents keep fish close to the bottom. This is prime time for subsurface patterns. Midges dominate the trout diet, and flies like the Demon Midge, Top Secret Midge, and small Juju Baetis nymphs in sizes 18 to 22 are staples in our fly boxes. These flies perfectly imitate midge and mayfly nymphs that fish key in on before bigger hatches kick off. A properly weighted two-fly nymph rig can be especially effective during this period of low temperatures and clear water.
Blue-Winged Olive Hatches
As the water begins to warm and flows stabilize, Blue-winged Olives (BWOs) take center stage. Overcast days often trigger strong emergences of these delicate mayflies. A well-presented BWO nymph or RS2 emerger in size 16 to 20 will consistently draw strikes, especially on the Gunnison River, San Miguel River and Cimarron Rivers where fish can be exceptionally selective during this hatch. Matching the hatch closely with size and profile becomes crucial during this stage of the season.
Stonefly and Attractor Patterns for Runoff
Late spring sees a noticeable shift in fish feeding behavior as runoff starts to taper up. Stonefly nymphs start migrating towards the banks of the Gunnison River, and trout eagerly target these large protein-packed meals. Our guides rely heavily on Pat’s Rubber Legs in black or brown as an anchor fly. This pattern not only imitates stonefly nymphs but also serves as an excellent attractor fly when visibility is limited. Trailing off these larger stonefly patterns with a brighter nymph pattern such as a Blowtorch or a worm imitation is sure to lead to success.
Transition to Dry Fly Action
Moving into early summer, the rivers become prime dry fly fisheries. Stoneflies and Caddisflies emerge in large numbers, particularly on sunny days. There are a variety of stoneflies that hatch off one after another, starting with the largest, the Salmon fly and ending with the Yellow Sallie. The Elk Hair Caddis, sized 14 to 18, is a staple pattern that triggers aggressive surface takes on both the Gunnison and Uncompahgre Rivers. It remains one of the most reliable searching patterns when fish may not be rising through early summer.
Dry-Dropper Versatility
For anglers looking for flexibility in changing conditions, dry-dropper rigs are a proven winner. We often pair a buoyant Chubby Chernobyl with a small jigged beadhead nymphs, like a jigged perdigon or a jigged pheasant tail, as your dropper. The Chubby rides high in rough pocket water and serves as both an attractor and strike indicator, giving anglers a double shot at success in riffles, seams, and eddies.
Streamer Techniques for Aggressive Trout
Streamer fishing offers an exciting option during periods of off-color water or following light rain events. Large, predatory brown trout will respond to big meals, and we regularly fish Sculpzilla, The Dungeon and Baby Swim Coaches tight to structure or swung through deeper runs. Olive and black are our go-to colors when fishing these patterns in Colorado’s spring and early summer conditions.
Matching the Hatch with Confidence
No matter the river or time of season, matching fly selection to conditions is key. Our RIGS guides adjust daily to the changing river environment, modifying fly size, color, weight, and presentation to help our clients maximize their chances at wild Colorado trout. A well-prepared fly box and flexible approach are essential tools for success; let us hand-pick the best selection for the rivers we fish every day. We can mail the perfect hand picked fly selection directly to your door or have them waiting for your arrival to the region. Also, we carry the best fly manufacturers, who rely on quality hooks and materials so your flies are less likely to unravel or hook fail during an important moment!
Species to target in SW Colorado
Rainbow Trout
Rainbows are aggressive, acrobatic, and hard fighters. On the Uncompahgre River, they can be large and demanding, requiring precise drifts and perfect fly selection. Where in the Gunnison they are more forgiving to an imperfect cast or fly.
Brown Trout
The elusive browns love early spring. They’re ambush predators and often strike streamers aggressively. Look for them along structures like fallen timber, deep banks, and submerged boulders.
Bonus Species
While rainbows and browns are the stars, you may also encounter:
- Cutthroat trout
- Cutbows (rainbow/cutthroat hybrids)
- Brook trout
- Kokanee salmon fry (in the Gunnison, Lake Fork of the Gunnison, and Uncompahgre River system above Ridgway Reservoir)
- Occasional native chubb and flannel mouth in the lower Gunnison stretches
- Very rarely, but occasionally stocked tiger trout in lakes like Rowdy and Montrouse Rez on Cerro summit
Essential Gear for Colorado Spring Fly Fishing
Rods and Reels
Fishing the dynamic rivers of Western Slope of Colorado in spring demands versatile equipment. A 9-foot, 5- or 6-weight fly rod will handle most conditions on the Gunnison and Uncompahgre Rivers. You won’t be getting out your 3-4wt rods until access to the high country roads are snow free.
A 6-weight rod offers extra backbone for casting heavier rigs and dealing with higher flows. Fast-action rods are preferred for their ability to cut through spring winds and make accurate long casts.
Pair your rod with a large arbor reel equipped with a smooth drag system. Spring fish fight hard, and fast flows can test your gear’s limits. A high-quality drag helps you stay in control.
Lines and Leaders
A weight-forward floating fly line will cover the majority of spring fishing scenarios. However, we always recommend carrying an extra spool with a sink-tip line for streamer fishing in deeper runs.
Start with a 9-foot 4X or 5X tapered leader on the Uncompahgre River or a 9 foot 3X on the Gunnison River. Add an 18- to 24-inch section of 3X-5X tippet to your dropper fly when fishing double nymph rigs or dry-dropper setups.
Fluorocarbon tippet can be a big advantage in strength and added abrasion resistance.
Knotting and Rigging
Strong, reliable knots are critical for success. Learn the Non-slip Loop Knot for streamers and the Improved Clinch Knot or Uni Knot for tying on nymphs and dries.
When building two-fly rigs, the Double Surgeon’s Knot is an excellent choice to connect leader and tippet. Always seat your knots properly to avoid failure under load.
A tippet ring or micro-swivel is a great addition for making quick fly changes and extending the life of your leader. Strike indicators and split shot help you fine-tune depth and drift in faster currents.
Tips from the Water
Spring flows can vary dramatically, so adaptability is key. Always check recommendations and conditions with your local fly shop. Adding a second heavy fly, like a stonefly or worm pattern, can help anchor your rig in heavy current.
Our RIGS guides are experts at adjusting leader length, fly selection, and presentation to help you succeed in fluctuating spring flows.
San Miguel River Spring Walk Wade Trip
Spring Safety and Responsible Fishing
Stay Aware of Water Conditions
Spring fly fishing in Colorado brings exceptional opportunities, but also unpredictable conditions. Planning and awareness are critical to making your trip both productive and safe.
Always check river flows and weather forecasts before heading out. High water from snowmelt or dam releases can quickly turn a safe stretch of river into a dangerous one. Wading under these conditions requires extreme caution and preparation. A properly fitted wading belt is your best defense, preventing water from filling your waders in case of a fall.
Smart Wading Practices
A wading staff becomes essential in high flows, helping you test footing and maintain balance in swift current. Always cross streams and rivers at a slight upstream angle and make sure your foot is solid before taking the next step. If the water looks too fast or too deep, don’t risk it.
If you do fall in, stay calm. Face downstream, lift your feet to avoid snags, and use your arms to guide yourself toward shallow water or the bank. Fishing with a partner is always safer, but if you go solo, make sure someone knows where you’re going and when you expect to return.
Practice Responsible Angling
Conservation is at the core of everything we do at RIGS Fly Shop & Guide Service. Respect for fish and the water is non-negotiable. Always wet your hands before handling fish to avoid damaging their protective slime layer. Keep fish in the water as much as possible, and if you do photograph your catch, minimize air exposure. When you release fish, hold them gently facing upstream until they swim away on their own.
Pay close attention to spawning redds, which appear as bright, clean patches of gravel in shallow water. Avoid walking through these critical breeding areas and keep a respectful distance to protect developing eggs.
Respect Fellow Anglers and the Environment
On the water, give fellow anglers plenty of space, at least two long casts apart. Never step into water if someone else is actively fishing. Respect private property by securing permission when necessary, and always close any gates behind you.
If you’re on a float trip, avoid dropping anchor near wading anglers and steer well clear of others’ fishing lanes. Courtesy goes a long way in keeping our rivers enjoyable for everyone.
Lastly, always leave the river cleaner than you found it. Pack out everything you bring, including trash, tippet scraps, and leader clippings. A clean, healthy river benefits us all and ensures these world-class fisheries remain for future generations.
FAQs: Spring Fly Fishing in Southwest Colorado
What’s the best time to fish during Colorado’s spring runoff season?
The “in-between” moments when flows are dropping after a spike in flows or cooler temps can produce exceptional fishing. Late March through early June is prime time if you stay flexible, watch water levels, and play the conditions instead of waiting for “perfect” weather.
What flies should I use in early spring conditions?
Early spring is a subsurface game. Go with small midge patterns like the Demon Midge or Top Secret Midge (sizes 18–22), and pair them with a weighted nymph rig. As spring progresses, add Blue-Winged Olives and eventually stonefly patterns like Pat’s Rubber Legs to match migrating nymphs during runoff. Pair them with brighter nymphs or worm patterns that fish can see.
How do I safely wade Colorado rivers during higher spring flows?
A wading belt, wading staff, and good judgment are your best tools. Test every step before you commit, and never wade into fast or murky water you can’t assess. When in doubt, don’t risk it, move upstream or downstream to find safer, fishable water.
Are dry flies even worth trying in early spring?
Absolutely, especially during BWO hatches on overcast days and again in early summer when caddis and stoneflies come alive. Elk Hair Caddis and Chubby Chernobyls paired with beadhead droppers give you dry-dropper flexibility in changing conditions.
What gear should I bring for spring fly fishing on the Western Slope Colorado?
The right fly fishing gear can make or break a day on the water in spring. A fast-action 9’ 5- or 6-weight rod, large arbor reel with solid drag, and weight-forward floating line will handle most medium to large rivers. For smaller streams and high country creeks, a 3wt to 4wt shorter rod is best for smaller fish and tighter casting conditions (some creeks can become available depending on elevation and southern facing). Bring an extra spool with sinking tip line for streamers, fluorocarbon tippet (3X–5X), and a range of indicator and split shot options for dialing in depth. And never forget, being prepared for weather changes can save your life! Clothing layers, gloves, warm hat, waterproof shell are essential in spring, a clear sunny day can change quickly with temperature fluctuations and weather.
Spring walk wade fly fishing on the Lower Gunnison River
Planning Your Colorado Spring Fly Fishing Trip Timing Is Key
The fly fishing seasons in Colorado vary from year to year with snowmelt, temperatures, and dam releases. In Ouray County, March through early June offers unique conditions. The Uncompahgre River below Ridgway Reservoir often fishes well earlier, thanks to reliable cold water flows. The Gunnison River, especially in the Gorge, becomes reliable nymphing around late April through May, depending on runoff.
Spring weather is unpredictable. Dress in layers, carry rain gear, and bring polarized sunglasses
If possible, build flexibility into your fly fishing trips. Flows and hatches can shift quickly. Our team offers updated river reports, gear recommendations, and insider tips to help you get the most out of your trip or day in the region. Check river gauges, weather patterns for the week or contact RIGS Fly Shop for real-time advice.
Book Early, Go Guided
Spring and early summer trips, especially Gunnison Gorge float trips, book up fast. A guided day with RIGS Fly Shop & Guide Service ensures you fish the right places at the right times.
RIGS Fly Shop always provides premium rods, reels, waders, boots, terminal tackle, flies and local knowledge with each trip. Whether you want a full-day drift boat float or a half-day walk/wade trip, we’ll tailor the day to your experience level and fishing goals.
Before you hit the water, don’t forget to purchase your Colorado fishing license. Anyone aged 16 and older are required to carry a valid license while fishing in Colorado. Stop by RIGS Fly Shop in Ridgway to grab one, or purchase it online in advance to save time.
Why Fly Fishing on the Western Slope Colorado Should Be Your Next Adventure
The early fly fishing season in Colorado, and specifically the Western Slope delivers in every category: big fish, wild rivers, epic hatches, and no crowds. When snowmelt stabilizes and fish move into feeding mode, you’ll find yourself in some of the best trout fishing experiences anywhere in North America.
At RIGS Fly Shop & Guide Service, we live and breathe this season. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for round two, we’re ready to help you make the most of your time on the water.