Arkansas River - Granite - Colorado
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions
Arkansas River – Granite - Water Flow Chart
Arkansas River – Granite - Weather report & radar
Arkansas River – Granite - General hatch chart
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Midges | Afternoon | 18-24 | Black beauty, Zebra midge |
| February | Midges | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra midge, Miracle Nymph |
| March | Midges | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra midge, Miracle Nymph |
| Blue Winged Olives | Afternoon | 18-20 | Royal Wulff, Adams | |
| April | Midges | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra midge, Miracle Nymph |
| Blue Winged Olives | Afternoon | 16-20 | Royal Wulff, Adams | |
| Caddis | All day | 14-18 | Elk Hair Caddis, X-caddis | |
| May | Midges | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra midge, Miracle Nymph |
| Blue Winged Olives | Late afternoon | 16-20 | Royal Wulff, Adams | |
| Stoneflies | All day | 8-12 | Pats Rubber Legs, Stimulator | |
| June | Midges | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra midge, Miracle Nymph |
| Yellow Sallies | All Day | 16-18 | Yellow Stimulator, Yellow Sally Nymph | |
| July | Midges | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra midge, Miracle Nymph |
| Blue Winged Olives | Evening | 18-22 | Royal Wulff, Adams | |
| August | Tricos | Morning | 20-24 | Trico Spinner, Trico Dun |
| September | Tricos | Morning | 20-24 | Trico Spinner, Trico Dun |
| October | Blue Winged Olives | Late afternoon | 18-22 | Royal Wulff, Adams |
| November | Midges | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra midge, Miracle Nymph |
| December | Midges | Afternoon | 18-24 | Black Beauty, Zebra midge |
Arkansas River – Granite Access Points
The Arkansas River – Granite section offers some of the best spots for successful fly fishing. Here are a few key locations to consider:
- Granite Gorge: This area, located below the Granite Reservoir, offers deep pools that hold Rainbow and Brown Trout. However, it can pose wading challenges due to large boulder formations.
- Numbers Reach: This spot provides abundant opportunity for high-quality fishing. Located between Granite and Buena Vista, access can be gained from County Road 371.
- Below Leadville: This stretch of the river is less crowded, providing a tranquil fishing ambiance. The region upstream from the Granite Bridge is particularly productive.
- The Town of Granite: Fishermen can enjoy public-fishing rights sections, the backwaters of Clear Creek Reservoir, and nearby tributary creeks offering a variety of fish species.
Remember to always respect private properties along the river and follow catch-and-release practices to help conserve the local fish population.
Arkansas River – Granite Fishing Spots
The Arkansas River – Granite provides numerous spots that are known for their prime fly fishing opportunities.
- The Grizzly Lake Trailhead: Renowned for its population of rainbow and brown trout, this spot is a favorite amongst locals and visitors alike.
- Clear Creek Reservoir: Located just off Highway 24, this place is known for its lush scenery and high-quality fly fishing environment.
- Lake Chaffee County: Offering fantastic views and impressive fishing, it’s no wonder why this location is loved by many.
- Browns Canyon National Monument: Although non-fishing activities dominate this spot, you can still find secluded spots lining the river, ideal for peaceful fly fishing.
- Independence Pass: Open only during the summer months due to snowfall, this spot is perfect for those looking for a unique fly fishing experience amidst stunning landscapes.
Arkansas River – Granite Local Fish Species
- Brown Trout: Particularly in the tailwaters of dams, Brown Trout are highly coveted targets for fly fishers in the Arkansas River due to their size and fighting ability.
- Rainbow Trout: Rainbows dominate the Arkansas River fishery and are the main target of most fly fishermen. They are known for their vibrant colors and enthusiastic bites.
- Brook Trout: Few in numbers but sought after for their beauty and sport, Brook Trout are a pleasure for any fly fisher to catch on the Arkansas River.
- Mountain Whitefish: Though not as colorful as trout, Mountain Whitefish are fun to catch and are abundant in the Arkansas River.
- Northern Pike: Massachusetts fly fishers who seek a challenge often target the aggressive and toothy Northern Pike, which are a thrill to catch on a fly rod.
- Smallmouth Bass: Common in the warmer parts of the Arkansas River, Smallmouths are exciting to catch and are known for their ferocious fights.
- Green Sunfish: For fly fishers who appreciate diversity, the Green Sunfish presents a smaller but entertaining target in the Arkansas River, especially in quieter backwaters.
- Catfish: Although not traditionally pursued on a fly rod, adventurous anglers sometimes target Catfish in the Arkansas River, with the River Catfish and Channel catfish being the most popular species.
About the Arkansas River – Granite
The Arkansas River has a vibrant history, with its roots ingrained in the landscape of the country. Originating from Colorado, it traverses through seven states before merging with the Mississippi River. The stretch around Granite, Colorado is particularly popular among water sports enthusiasts.
Its story begins millions of years ago during the Cenozoic Era, shaped by geological phenomena. During the 1800s, it played a pivotal role in the westward expansion of the United States due to the Arkansas River Valley’s fertile lands. It also acted as the backdrop for the history of Native American tribes, such as the Quapaw and the Osage.
- 1806: Exploration by Zebulon Pike, revealing the river’s course.
- 1820: Arkansas becomes a prominent route for western settlers.
- 1970s: Emergence of the recreational industry around the river, especially in Granite, Colorado.
Today, the Arkansas River – Granite represents not just a gorgeous sight, but a testament to our country’s history.
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