Keep yourself bundled up and, luckily, you can be fly fishing all winter long in Colorado waters. The various dam-controlled rivers Colorado’s Denver Front Range and Vail Valley remain ice-free all winter long. These tailwaters are released from dams and come from the bottom of the reservoirs. Water temperatures are consistent, and offer a steady supply of food and nutrients, ideal for hungry, usually trophy sized trout.

Popular Tailwater Fisheries near Denver

If you live in the Denver area, there are a number of tailwaters near Denver that you could try. A favorite with many is the Blue River. From the Dillon Reservoir dam for some 38 miles to Kremmling, the Blue River is a Gold Medal stream with many large rainbow ready to tease with your fly. To get to the Blue, take the I-70 West of Denver, Colorado and exit at Highway 9. There are many access points just off the highway, some marked with a “P”, for parking. Other turnouts will have signs posted giving information about access and regulations.

Waterton Canyon, where the South Platte merges with the North Fork, is another popular fishery. You can use the parking lot across from the old South Platte Hotel on Highway 67 north of Deckers, or the one at Kassler. To find less crowded areas, hike up the canyon a short distance.

You don’t want to miss out on the Dream Stream tailwater. This is the section of the South Platte between the Elevenmile and Spinney Reservoirs. Come prepared for windy and cold conditions, but also expect Gold Medal fishing. Trophy rainbow and brown trout are just waiting for you.

Finding the best fishing spots can be a challenge. Fly fishermen and women new to the Denver area, and even local residents often prefer the assistance and expert knowledge offered by professional fly fishing guides such as those from Minturn Anglers in Denver who can guide you in the ins-outs of fishing Colorado waters.   Many clients engage Minturn Anglers guides year after year because they appreciate their friendly approach and their ability to quickly bring clients to productive fishing waters. Minturn Anglers guides are dedicated to providing the best fly fishing experience possible.