Big Thompson River

Flows are seasonably low at 22 cfs and the water is gin clear. The Big Thompson was hit or miss this week due to cold winter conditions and with similar weather in the forecast, we don’t expect the story to change. In general, trout are most active between 12 pm and 4 pm, so set your alarm back and fish the warmest hours of the day. Until we get closer to spring, the tailwater stretch will be the most viable option due to considerable ice buildup downstream. Delicate presentations and tiny bugs are the name of the game. Focus on pronounced pools, soft runs and seams along structure with small midge larva/pupa, baetis larva and searcher patterns. Midge larva, baetis and searcher/attractor patterns such as Blood Midges, Tube Midges, JuJu Baetis, Mercury Pheasant Tails, Rainbow Warriors and Frenchies are great point flies. For your trailer, you can’t go wrong with Black Beauties, Mercury Midges, Bling Midges, Blood Midges, WD-40s, Top Secrets or RS2s. If you get your flies down early in your drift, you’ll find a few trout willing to play.