Arkansas River - Pueblo Tailwater

Flows on the Ark have come down substantially since peaking at 2,800 cfs last week. This was a very brief runoff season, but things are looking great the rest of the month. At this point, you will continue to be limited to the banks as the water is still too high to wade through. That being said, trout are stacking up along the banks and through the slack water. Water clarity has improved and should continue to do so in the coming days. Nymphing with bigger lead flies followed by smaller searchers/attractors or midge, baetis and caddis imitations is the way to go right now. As far as lead flies go, Pat’s Rubber Legs (black or purple), Pine Squirrel Leeches, Mini Leeches and Worms are all effective options. Otherwise, Frenchies, Copper Johns (green or red), Barr’s Tungstones, Hare’s Ears or Flashback PTs will do the trick. Surface action is picking up with consistent mayfly and BWO action. Caddis are growing in numbers as well so if you see trout actively rising to the surface, don’t hesitate to rig up some dries.