Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Colorado River - Hot Sulphur Springs - 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 11am - 2pm 20 - 26 Griffith's Gnat, Black Beauty
Winter Stonefly Early Afternoon 14 - 16 Black Stonefly Nymphs
February Midges Early Afternoon 20 - 26 Zebra Midge, Mercury Midge
Winter Stonefly Late Afternoon 14 - 16 Prince Nymph, Pheasant Tail
March Blue Winged Olives Noon - 2pm 18 - 22 RS2, Sparkle Dun
Midges 10am - 2pm 20 - 26 Rusty Midge, Flash Midge Pupa
April Blue Winged Olives Late Morning 18 - 22 BWO Comparadun, CDC BWO Emerger
Midges Early-Mid Afternoon 20 - 26 Mercury Midge, Top Secret Midge
Caddis Evening 14 - 16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
May Blue Winged Olives Morning-Afternoon 16 - 20 BWO Sparkle Dun, CDC BWO Emerger
Caddis Morning-Late Evening 14 - 18 Peacock Caddis, Goddard Caddis
Sulphurs Afternoon 16 - 20 Sulphur Dun, Sulphur Emerger
June Stoneflies Evening 10 - 14 Golden Stone, Stimulator
Caddis Early Morning-Late Evening 14 - 18 Rogue Foam Caddis, Buckskin Caddis
Green Drakes Afternoon 10 - 14 Green Drake Comparadun, Paradrake
July Tricos Morning 20 - 24 Trico Spinner, Tung Teaser
Caddis Early Morning-Late Evening 14 - 18 X-Caddis, CDC Bubbleback Caddis
August Tricos Morning 20 - 24 Trico Spinner, Trico Dun
Tiny Blue Winged Olives Evening 20 - 24 CDC BWO Emerger, Sawyers PT Nymph
September Midges Morning 20 - 26 Rusty Midge, Tung Teaser
Tiny Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 20 - 24 BWO Emerger, Split Flag BWO
October Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 18 - 22 Parachute BWO, Pheasant Tail
Midges Morning 20 - 26 Black Beauty, Griffith's Gnat
Brown Caddis Afternoon 14 - 16 X-Caddis, October Caddis Pupa
November Blue Winged Olives Noon 18 - 22 Parachute BWO, BWO Emerger
Midges 10am - 2pm 20 - 26 Flash Midge Pupa, Midge Cluster
December Midges 11am - 2pm 20 - 26 Zebra Midge, Black Beauty
Winter Stonefly Early Afternoon 14 - 16 Stonefly Nymph, Prince 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. 

Best Fishing Spots

Fly fishing enthusiasts will find great pleasure in the serene waters of the Colorado River – Hot Sulphur Springs. Several outstanding spots are favored for their aquatic abundance and breathtaking scenery.

  • Byers Canyon: A steep, rugged canyon with excellent fishing opportunities. A ¼ mile stretch below the dam provides natural habitat for large trout.
  • Parshall Diversion: Here, you can catch brown and rainbow trout. Promises abundant hatches of midges, baetis, and caddisflies.
  • Pumphouse Recreation Site: A popular location due to easy access and facilities, offers a mix of brown and rainbow trout.
  • Radium: It’s a little rugged to reach, but the yield of large and vibrant fish varieties make it well worth the effort.
  • Rancho Del Rio: Home to diverse fish species, its steady current and deep pools provide great fly fishing experiences.

Always remember to respect private lands and abide by catch-and-release rules to maintain the river’s rich ecosystem.

Best Access Points

Visitors to Hot Sulphur Springs have the opportunity to experience some of the best fly fishing spots on the Colorado River. This list compiles the stands out access points for an impressive fly fishing escapade.

  • Paul Gilbert Fishing Site: Easily accessible year-round, offering the promise of Cutthroat, Rainbow and Brook trout.
  • Byers Canyon: Just a short distance from town, here you’ll encounter a diverse range of fish in stunning surroundings.
  • Himebaugh Creek: Perfect for intermediate and expert fly fishermen, this creek is teeming with Brown and Rainbow trout.
  • Lone Buck Campground: Especially ideal during the summer months. Besides fishing, you can enjoy hiking trails within walking distance.
  • Pioneer Park Access Site: This site is great for a family fishing trip. With ample space, you can comfortably accommodate everyone, even for multi-day trips.

Local Fish

  • Brown Trout: This fish is one of the most prevalent species in the Colorado River at Hot Sulphur Springs, making it a prime target for fly fishing.
  • Rainbow Trout: These colorful fish are one of the favorites among fly fishers, offering a thrilling chase and fight.
  • Brook Trout: The Brook Trout is another common sport fish found in the icy waters of the Colorado River.
  • Mountain Whitefish: This cold-water fish is commonly found throughout the river and offers a satisfying catch for anglers.
  • Cutthroat Trout: Colorado’s state fish, the Cutthroat Trout is a unique and exciting catch for fly anglers on the Colorado River.
  • Colorado Pike-Minnow: Previously known as the Colorado Squawfish, this species thrives in the warm desert sections of the river.
  • Common Carp: While not a traditional fly fishing target, the Common Carp is plentiful in the Colorado River, providing a new challenge for fly fishers.
  • White Sucker: Another less common fly fishing target, White Suckers are available in abundance in the river and provide good practice for mastering fly fishing techniques.

About The River

Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Hot Sulphur Springs is a delightful highlight of the majestic Colorado River. This charming location has a rich history dating back to its discovery by a pioneer explorer, William Byers, in 1840.
  • Byers, inspired by the springs’ healing powers, opened a health spa and resort, leading to establishment of the town Hot Sulphur Springs.
  • The Ute Indians, native to this region, revered these springs long before settlers arrived, recognizing their therapeutic benefits.
  • These natural hot tubs are not just for relaxation; they are also a unique geothermal occurrence. Hot mineral water emerges from the Earth’s crust and heats the spring water to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Whether you’re soaking in the springs, enjoying the river’s idyllic views, or immersing in the town’s captivating history, Hot Sulphur Springs encapsulates the essence of the magnificent Colorado River.
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