Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Arkansas River - Salida - Colorado

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Mid-Day 18-22 Zebra Midges, Mercury Midges
Winter Stoneflies Late Afternoon 16-20 Bunny Leach, Egg Sucking Leach
February Midges Mid-Day 18-22 Zebra Midges, Mercury Midges
Winter Stoneflies Late Afternoon 16-20 Psycho Prince, Pat's Rubber Legs
March Midges Mid-Day 18-22 Zebra Midges, Mercury Midges
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-22 RS2, Jujubaetis
April Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-22 RS2, Jujubaetis
Caddis Afternoon, Evening 14-18 Olive Elk Hair Caddis, Beadhead Caddis Pupa
May Caddis Afternoon, Evening 14-18 Olive Elk Hair Caddis, Beadhead Caddis Pupa
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-22 RS2, Jujubaetis
June Golden Stoneflies Early Morning, Late Afternoon 8-12 Pat's Rubber Legs, Stimulators
Caddis Afternoon, Evening 14-18 Olive Elk Hair Caddis, Beadhead Caddis Pupa
July Golden Stoneflies Early Morning, Late Afternoon 8-12 Pat's Rubber Legs, Stimulators
Terrestrials All Day 14-18 Hopper Patterns, Ant Patterns
August Terrestrials All Day 14-18 Hopper Patterns, Ant Patterns
September Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-22 RS2, Jujubaetis
Terrestrials All Day 14-18 Hopper Patterns, Ant Patterns
October Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-22 RS2, Jujubaetis
Midges Mid-Day 18-22 Zebra Midges, Mercury Midges
November Midges Mid-Day 18-22 Zebra Midges, Mercury Midges
Winter Stoneflies Late Afternoon 16-20 Bunny Leach, Egg Sucking Leach
December Midges Mid-Day 18-22 Zebra Midges, Mercury Midges
Winter Stoneflies Late Afternoon 16-20 Bunny Leach, Egg Sucking Leach

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Arkansas River – Salida is a dream location for passionate fly fishermen. Here are some of the top spots:

  • Bighorn Sheep Canyon: This is famous for its agressive brown trout. The water here is clearer compared to other areas, allowing for perfect fly fishing conditions.
  • Browns Canyon National Monument: This location affords excellent opportunities to catch both brown and rainbow trouts. Aside from fishing, the stunning scenery is a great backdrop for the sport.
  • Royal Gorge Section: This spot is not as popular due to its challenging conditions. But it is well worth the effort as it is home to some of the biggest trouts on the river.
  • Hayden Meadows: A section of the river with a broad and meandering structure, well-stocked with rainbow and cutthroat trout. It’s easily accessible with plenty of public access points.

Best Access Points

The Arkansas River in Salida offers a rich destination for fly fishing. Here are some of the best access points:

  • Salida East: Just a few miles east of Salida, this area has easy access to a wide variety of fish species.
  • River Park: Located in downtown Salida, this provides urban accessibility with riverside beauty.
  • Bear Creek: Situated southeast of Salida, it’s an excellent spot for brown and rainbow trout.
  • Wilderness Aware Rafting: Positioned in Johnson Village, offers more secluded fishing spots.
  • Stone Bridge: Just south of Salida, this provides access to a long stretch of the river.
  • ArkAnglers: Near Salida, offers guided trips and equipment.

Always check the current fishing regulations and be sure to respect private property near any access points.

Local Fish

  • Brown Trout: One of the most common targets for anglers on the Arkansas River, the brown trout is not only a challenge but a real fighter on a fly rod.
  • Rainbow Trout: With their vivid colors and aggressive nature, rainbow trout are another popular species for fly fishing.
  • Cutthroat Trout: A native species to Colorado, the cutthroat trout can be a bit tricky to catch on a fly but offer a rewarding experience when successfully landed.
  • Brook Trout: These smaller species of trout can offer a bit of variety and excitement for fly fishers on the Arkansas River.
  • Mountain Whitefish: Although less targeted, the mountain whitefish are plentiful in the Arkansas River and can provide a fun challenge on a fly rod.
  • Greenback Cutthroat Trout: A sub-species of cutthroat trout, the greenback is native to the Arkansas River and quite a catch on a fly.
  • Tiger Trout: A hybrid of brown trout and brook trout, the tiger trout is a rare and special catch for any fly fisherman on the Arkansas River.
  • Golden Trout: Arguably the most beautiful trout species, the golden trout are a prized catch on a fly in the Arkansas River.

About The River

Known as “The Heart of the Rockies”, Salida, Colorado is located by the banks of the spectacular Arkansas River. Its history is as rich as the natural beauty surrounding the town. Established in the late 1880s during the Colorado Silver Boom, the area was initially inhabited by miners in search of fortune.
  • The Arkansas River – This majestic waterway helped to shape the landscape of Salida. More than that, it became a means for transporting goods and people, playing a critical role in the town’s growth.
  • Recreation – Today, Salida has grown into an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. The Arkansas River is no longer just a commercial route but a hub for activities like whitewater rafting, fishing, and sightseeing.
Overflowing with culture, natural beauty, and historic appeal, the Arkansas River and Salida offer a unique blend of day-to-day serenity and adventure. This mesmerizing charm has rooted its history deeply into the heart of its beloved residents.
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