What’s Working Now
Recommended Flies & Tactics
Top Fly Patterns
Pat’s Rubber Legs (#8–12)
CDC Pheasant Tails (#16–20)
Sparkle Wing RS2 (#18–22)
Rainbow Warriors (#16–20)
Zebra Midges (#18–22)
Green caddis patterns
Thin Mint and olive Wooly Buggers in deeper water
General Tactics
Cold mornings with slower fish activity
Increasing afternoon runoff
Best fishing in meadow sections and softer channels
Technical presentations in clear slower water
Best Approaches in RMNP
Smaller natural nymph patterns
5X–6X tippet
Focus on undercut banks and softer inside bends
Fish later morning through evening
Hopper-dropper setups beginning to produce during warmer afternoons
Seasonal Outlook
Mid-June has arrived in Estes Park, and we are now fully into runoff season across much of the area. Despite higher water, fishing remains productive for anglers who adjust their approach and focus on the right water types. The Big Thompson below Lake Estes continues to offer the most consistent fishing in the area, while sections inside Rocky Mountain National Park are seeing increasing flows from snowmelt and afternoon thunderstorms.
This time of year rewards anglers who fish early or late in the day, target softer water, and stay flexible as flows can change quickly throughout the afternoon.
Overall Conditions
Good
Fish early before the sun heats up the river, and evenings when its had a chance to cool.
Best Window
Before Noon–After 4pm
Avoid mid-day in the canyon, fishing has been good all day in the park.
Season
Summer
Fish are moving into faster seams, runs and riffles. Focus on cool swift current.
Location-by-Location Report
Big Thompson River
Below Lake Estes — water Best
Key Water to Target:
- Soft seams along heavier current.
- Pocket water behind rocks
- Deep runs with moderate current
- Bankside structure and slower edges
- Tailouts during lower-light periods
Big Thompson Canyon
Mixed Conditions
The canyon section is seeing stronger runoff influence and more variable conditions throughout the day. Fish are concentrated in softer holding water and are often feeding aggressively when presentations reach the proper depth.
Rocky Mountain National Park
variable — tactics
Runoff is now fully impacting many streams inside Rocky Mountain National Park. Sections of the Big Thompson are most consistent moving water options inside RMNP, while many steeper creeks and higher elevation streams are still running cold and fast.
Current Alpine Fishing Conditions, Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park Alpine Lake Fishing Report After several recent guided trips into the alpine lakes of Rocky Mountain National Park, it's safe to say the high-country fishing has been nothing short of incredible. Surprisingly, conditions are fishing more like late summer than mid-season, with crystal-clear water, active trout, and consistent dry fly action throughout the morning hours. Our...
Estes Park Fly Fishing Report – Mid June Conditions
Big Thompson River & Rocky Mountain National Park Mid-June has arrived in Estes Park, and we are now fully into runoff season across much of the area. Despite higher water, fishing remains productive for anglers who adjust their approach and focus on the right water types. The Big Thompson below Lake Estes continues to offer the most consistent fishing...
