Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons
Hip Waders or Chest Waders? Choosing the right gear for fly fishing can make all the difference in…
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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.
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Midge | Afternoon | #18-#24 | Zebra Midge, Mercury Midge |
| Winter Stonefly | Afternoon | #14-#18 | Black Stonefly Nymph | |
| February | Midge | Afternoon | #18-#24 | Griffith's Gnat, Black Beauty |
| Winter Stonefly | Afternoon | #14-#18 | 20 Incher Stone | |
| March | Blue Winged Olive | Afternoon | #16-#24 | BWO Emerger, Sparkle Dun |
| Midge | Afternoon | #18-#24 | Mercury Midge, Rojo Midge | |
| April | Blue Winged Olive | Afternoon | #16-#24 | Adams, Pheasant Tail Nymph |
| Midge | Afternoon | #18-#24 | Chocolate Thunder, Miracle Midge | |
| Caddis | Evening | #12-#18 | Hare's Ear, Tan Elk Hair Caddis | |
| May | Blue Winged Olive | Afternoon | #16-#24 | Blue Winged Olive, Pheasant Tail Nymph |
| Caddis | Evening | #12-#18 | Elk Hair Caddis, CDC Caddis Emerger | |
| Stonefly | All Day | #4-#8 | Pat's Rubber Legs, Stimulator | |
| June | Green Drake | Afternoon | #10-#14 | Green Drake Parachute, Green Drake Emerger |
| Stonefly | All Day | #4-#8 | Chubby Chernobyl, Girdle Bug | |
| Caddis | Evening | #12-#18 | EC Caddis, Foam Caddis | |
| July | Pale Morning Dun | Afternoon | #14-#18 | PMD Sparkle Dun, PMD Cripple |
| Yellow Sally | Afternoon | #12-#16 | Yellow Sally Dry Fly, Stimulator | |
| Caddis | Evening | #12-#18 | Olive Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis | |
| August | Pale Morning Dun | Afternoon | #14-#18 | PMD Dry Fly, Comparadun |
| Terrestrials | All Day | #8-#14 | Chubby Chernobyl, Hopper Patterns | |
| September | Blue Winged Olive | Afternoon | #16-#24 | Blue Wing Olive, Tiny Blue Wing Olive |
| Terrestrials | All Day | #8-#14 | Parachute Hopper, Fat Albert | |
| October | Midge | Afternoon | #18-#24 | Miracle Midge, Black Beauty |
| Blue Winged Olive | Afternoon | #16-#24 | WD-40, RS2 | |
| November | Midge | Afternoon | #18-#24 | Jujubee Midge, Midge Larva |
| Winter Stonefly | Afternoon | #14-#18 | Winter Stonefly Nymph | |
| December | Midge | Afternoon | #18-#24 | Chocolate Thunder, Miracle Midge |
| Winter Stonefly | Afternoon | #14-#18 | Pat's Rubber Legs, Stonefly Nymph |
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.
The Big Thompson – Drake area is one of the best places for fly fishing, it offers several spots renowned for their fishing experiences. These include:
Remember to check with local regulations and obtain the necessary permits before you start your fishing adventure.
Fly fishing enthusiasts can find plentiful access points on the Big Thompson River in Drake boasting exceptional fishing opportunities.
In each location, fly fishers can expect to cast for brown and rainbow trout species. Always check for any local fishing regulations.
The Big Thompson – Drake area in Northern Colorado is rich with natural beauty and history. Inhabited by Native American tribes, like the Arapaho and Cheyenne, for centuries, it was eventually settled by European pioneers in the 1860s. Steeped in wilderness and wildlife, the Big Thompson River flowing through it breathes life into the region.
Noteworthy points of interest include:
Despite the devastating flood of 1976, the resilience and spirit of the Big Thompson – Drake community continue to thrive, making it a must-visit destination.
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