South Fork Rio Grande - South Fork - Colorado
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions
South Fork Rio Grande – South Fork - Water Flow Chart
South Fork Rio Grande – South Fork - Weather report & radar
South Fork Rio Grande – South Fork - General hatch chart
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Midges | 11am-3pm | #18-24 | Griffith’s Gnat, Zebra Midge |
| Winter Stoneflies | Warmest part of day | #16-20 | Black Stonefly Nymph | |
| February | Midges | 11am-3pm | #18-24 | Griffith’s Gnat, Zebra Midge |
| March | Midges | 11am-3pm | #18-24 | Griffith’s Gnat, Zebra Midge |
| Blue-Winged Olives | Cloudy days, midday | #16-20 | BWO Emerger, BWO Dry | |
| April | Midges | 11am-3pm | #18-24 | Griffith’s Gnat, Zebra Midge |
| Blue-Winged Olives | Cloudy days, midday | #16-20 | BWO Emerger, BWO Dry | |
| Caddis | Afternoon to evening | #14-18 | Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis | |
| May | Blue-Winged Olives | Cloudy days, midday | #16-20 | BWO Emerger, BWO Dry |
| Caddis | Afternoon to evening | #14-18 | Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis | |
| Golden Stoneflies | Afternoon | #8-12 | Golden Stone Nymph, Stimulator | |
| June | Caddis | Afternoon to evening | #14-18 | Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis |
| Golden Stoneflies | Afternoon | #8-12 | Golden Stone Nymph, Stimulator | |
| Green Drakes | Midday to afternoon | #10-14 | Green Drake Dun, Green Drake Nymph | |
| PMDs (Pale Morning Dun) | Midday | #14-18 | PMD Emerger, PMD Dun | |
| July | Golden Stoneflies | Afternoon | #8-12 | Golden Stone Nymph, Stimulator |
| Green Drakes | Midday to afternoon | #10-14 | Green Drake Dun, Green Drake Nymph | |
| PMDs (Pale Morning Dun) | Midday | #14-18 | PMD Emerger, PMD Dun | |
| Caddis | Afternoon to evening | #14-18 | Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis | |
| August | Golden Stoneflies | Afternoon | #8-12 | Golden Stone Nymph, Stimulator |
| Caddis | Afternoon to evening | #14-18 | Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis | |
| Terrestrials | All day | #10-16 | Ants, Beetles, Hoppers | |
| September | Blue-Winged Olives | Cloudy days, midday | #16-20 | BWO Emerger, BWO Dry |
| Terrestrials | All day | #10-16 | Ants, Beetles, Hoppers | |
| October | Blue-Winged Olives | Cloudy days, midday | #16-20 | BWO Emerger, BWO Dry |
| November | Midges | 11am-3pm | #18-24 | Griffith’s Gnat, Zebra Midge |
| Blue-Winged Olives | Cloudy days, midday | #16-20 | BWO Emerger, BWO Dry | |
| December | Midges | 11am-3pm | #18-24 | Griffith’s Gnat, Zebra Midge |
South Fork Rio Grande – South Fork Access Points
The South Fork Rio Grande – South Fork offers beautiful and promising fly fishing spots for anglers. Below are the best access points:
- South Fork – Rio Grande Club: Spread along three miles of river, the club allows public fishing for a nominal fee. Good for seasoned anglers.
- Coller State Wildlife Area: Serving two miles of the river, this spot near Highway 149 is open to anglers of all skill levels. The wildlife area might also offer sighting opportunities of different species.
- South Fork River Access – Big Meadows: Across the bridge on Highway 160, this spot provides extensive fishing access points and camping areas.
- Alder Guard Station: Situated by Forest Route 610, this spot allows fishing in broad open water with plenty of room for casting.
Please note that some areas require a fishing license. Always respect the wildlife and other anglers.
South Fork Rio Grande – South Fork Fishing Spots
The South Fork Rio Grande is a popular location in South Fork, teeming with various species of trout, making it a prime area for fly fishing. There are several standout fishing locations on the South Fork Rio Grande:
- South Fork River Ranch: This private fishing area on the banks of the Rio Grande offers abundant Rainbow and Brown trout. Anglers can hire a guide service for the best experience.
- Coller State Wildlife Area: With public fishing access, it’s perfect for wading and casting from shore. It’s known for its lush environment and wildlife encounters.
- Fun Valley: A family-friendly spot with a wide variety of trout. The river flow here is moderate, making it ideal for beginners.
- Mammoth Creek: One of the tributaries of the South Fork. Renowned for its clear waters, it’s home to large Brown trout.
South Fork Rio Grande – South Fork Local Fish Species
- Brown Trout: An abundant species in the South Fork Rio Grande, treasured for its high fight intensity and aggressive biting habits.
- Rainbow Trout: Known for their striking color patterns, these fish are a favorite among fly fishers.
- Brook Trout: Although smaller in size compared to others, these fish still offer an enjoyable challenge.
- Cutthroat Trout: Named for the distinctive red coloration on the underside of its jaw, this species is native to the area.
- Mountain Whitefish: Their preferred habitat includes faster flowing sections of rivers, where they can put up an impressive fight.
- Rio Grande Sucker: A local species primarily targeted in the spring season.
- Golden Trout: These are a subspecies of rainbow trout with vibrant, golden hues.
- Arctic Grayling: This cold-water fish is sought after for its large, sail-like dorsal fin and stunning coloration.
About the South Fork Rio Grande – South Fork
The South Fork Rio Grande, popularly known as South Fork, sits surrounded by the majesty of the Colorado Rockies. The vibrant river has thrilling stories to tell from the annals of time.
South Fork’s rich history is intertwined with the Ute Indians, trappers, miners, and homesteaders. The Ute Indians were the first to spot this paradise. Boasting a hunter-gatherer culture, they held the land sacred.
- The Gold Rush of 1870 sparked a frenzy, breathing life into the dormant town. Miners flocked in large numbers, eagerly seeking their fortunes.
- The Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad’s arrival in 1882, further boosted the town’s development, transporting vital goods and people.
- Finally, homesteaders settled in the late 1800s, their efforts transforming the rugged terrain into a flourishing and lively community.
Today, South Fork stands a testament to the resilience of these early settlers, enchanting visitors with its untouched landscapes and vibrant history.
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