One of the most important skills in fly fishing has nothing to do with your fly selection or rod choice — it’s knowing how to read water. Anglers who consistently catch trout understand where fish hold and why they choose certain areas of a river.

In this guide, we’ll break down how to read water for fly fishing in Estes Park, so you can quickly identify high-percentage trout water on the Big Thompson River, Fall River, and nearby alpine lakes.

What Does “Reading Water” Mean in Fly Fishing?

Reading water means understanding how current speed, depth, structure, and food availability influence trout behavior. Trout position themselves where they can feed efficiently without expending unnecessary energy.

In simple terms, trout look for:

• Slower water near faster current

• Protection from predators

• Easy access to drifting food

When those elements come together, you’ve found fishable water.

Key Water Features Trout Use in Rivers and Streams

Seams (High-Percentage Trout Water)

A seam forms where fast water meets slow water. Trout often sit on the slow side and feed on insects drifting past in the faster current.

Fly fishing tip: Drift your fly along the seam with minimal drag — this is one of the most productive presentations on Estes Park rivers.

Current Breaks

Rocks, logs, and undercut banks create current breaks that allow trout to hold comfortably. Even small obstructions can support fish.

This is especially important when fly fishing freestone rivers like the Big Thompson River.

Riffles

Riffles are shallow, broken water that provide oxygen and food. During summer months, many trout prefer riffles over deep pools.

Fish riffles thoroughly before moving on — they often hold more trout than anglers expect.

Pools

Pools give trout depth, cover, and consistent food delivery. Focus on:

• The head of the pool

• Cut banks

• Depth transitions

Move slowly and fish pools carefully — trout here are more easily spooked.

Eddies

Eddies form behind rocks or along river bends. These circular currents trap food and give trout a low-effort feeding lane.

Eddies are excellent targets when nymphing or fishing small dry flies.

Reading Water on Estes Park Fly Fishing Waters

Big Thompson River Fly Fishing

• Look for pocket water and seams through town

• Below Lake Estes, focus on deeper runs and structure

• Accuracy and drag-free drifts matter more than long casts

Fall River Fly Fishing

• Pocket water dominates inside Rocky Mountain National Park

• Fish soft water behind rocks and along edges

• Short drifts and precise presentations are key

Fly Fishing Alpine Lakes Near Estes Park

• Early and late: trout cruise near shorelines

• Midday: fish move deeper toward drop-offs

• Watch for wind lanes and insect activity

How Seasons Affect Where Trout Hold

• Spring runoff: Trout move to slower edges

• Summer: Riffles, seams, and shaded banks are prime

• Fall: Fish hold near deeper water and spawning areas

• Winter: Slow, deep runs and tailouts become critical

Understanding seasonal movement helps eliminate unproductive water quickly.

Simple Drill to Improve Your Water Reading Skills

Before making a cast:

1. Pause and observe the river

2. Identify three likely holding spots

3. Fish each thoroughly

4. Move if no response

This builds confidence and trains your eye to recognize trout water faster.

Matching Your Fly Fishing Setup to the Water

• Fast water: Weighted nymphs and shorter drifts

• Seams and runs: Indicator or tight-line nymphing

• Pools: Longer leaders and lighter tippet

• Dry fly water: Focus on drag-free presentations

Final Thoughts on Reading Water for Fly Fishing

Learning how to read water is one of the fastest ways to improve your fly fishing success in Estes Park. When you understand where trout hold, every cast becomes more intentional — and far more effective.

If you want to shorten the learning curve, fishing with a local guide can make a huge difference. Our guides spend hundreds of days each year fly fishing Estes Park waters and are happy to help anglers of all skill levels learn how to find fish on their own.

Tight lines, and we’ll see you on the river.

November brings low, ultra-clear water and cautious, winter-mode trout. This post teaches anglers how to succeed in the cold season — focusing on sight-fishing, subtle presentations, and tailwater strategy.

1. What Changes in November

• Water temperatures drop into winter ranges

• Trout concentrate in deeper runs and slow glides

• Midges become the primary food source

• Alpine lakes begin freezing — river stretches become the prime option

2. Best November Waters

• Big Thompson (Below Lake Estes): Consistent flows and reliable winter productivity

• Lower Meadow Sections of RMNP: Still accessible before heavier snow arrives

• Pocketwater near Drake: Deep slots holding fish seeking stable temperatures

3. Trout Behavior in November

• More subtle, energy-conserving takes

• Fish holding deeper or in slower water

• Increased reliance on tiny midges, emergers, and soft hackles

• Best feeding windows during warm midday periods

4. November Fly Box

• Zebra Midges (#18–24)

• RS2s (gray, black)

• Flashback PTs (#16–20)

• Soft Hackle PT

• Winter worms (pink/red)

• Small BWO dries on calm days

5. Cold-Season Tips

• Use 5x–6x tippet and small indicators

• Approach slowly — fish are spooky in ultra-clear water

• Fish between 11am and 3pm for your best chances

• Dress warmly and bring gloves or hand warmers

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November fly fishing demands precision, and it is one of the best months to learn subtle winter techniques from an experienced guide.
Book a November guided trip with Fly Fish Estes Park and enjoy quiet rivers, crisp mountain air, and trout that still feed readily when approached correctly.
Reserve your late-fall adventure before winter fully settles in.

October brings golden aspens, crisp mornings, and trout feeding aggressively before winter. This post highlights why October is one of the most underrated months to fish the Estes Park area, focusing on changing conditions, insect activity, and the ideal waters to target.

1. Why October Is a Hidden Gem

• Fewer crowds in RMNP and the Big Thompson

• Cooler water means more active trout

• Stunning fall colors and elk rut season enhance the experience

2. Where to Fish

• Big Thompson River (Below Lake Estes): Reliable flows, clear water, predictable fish movement

• Moraine Park / Horseshoe Park: Meadow stretches with great sight-fishing before temperatures drop

• Select Alpine Lakes: Still open early in October, with trout cruising the shallows

3. Seasonal Trout Behavior

• Increased feeding ahead of winter

• Browns transitioning to pre-spawn patterns

• Higher activity during late-morning to afternoon warmups

4. October Fly Box

• BWOs (#18–22)

• Elk Hair Caddis (#14–18)

• Griffith’s Gnat (#20–24)

• Ants and beetles during warm afternoons

• Pheasant Tails, Frenchies, and WD-40s subsurface

5. Tips for Success

• Fish the warmest hours (10am–3pm)

• Wear layers — mornings can be cold

• Use longer leaders and lighter tippet as water gets clearer

• Take time for photos — the fall scenery is unbeatable

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October is one of the most visually stunning and productive fishing months of the year.
Book your October fly-fishing trip with Fly Fish Estes Park and let our guides put you on active trout, beautiful water, and unmatched fall scenery.
Schedule your guided trip before the season winds down.

5 Reasons Fall is the Best Time to Fly Fish in Rocky Mountain National Park

When the leaves turn gold and the summer crowds fade, Rocky Mountain National Park transforms into a fly fishing paradise. The crisp air, peaceful rivers, and stunning scenery create an atmosphere that every angler should experience at least once. Fall offers a rare combination of solitude and beauty, making it one of the most rewarding times to cast a line.

One of the biggest advantages of fishing in the park during autumn is the quiet. While summer months can be bustling with visitors, fall brings a slower pace, leaving more space along the riverbanks and alpine lakes. This peacefulness allows anglers to focus on their casts and truly soak in the sound of the water and the rustle of the leaves.

The trout themselves are more active this time of year. As water temperatures drop, fish feed aggressively in preparation for the colder months ahead. Brown trout enter their pre-spawn phase and brook trout show off brilliant spawning colors, making them both more willing to take a fly and more spectacular to see up close.

The scenery alone is worth the trip. Golden aspen groves frame snow-dusted peaks under clear blue skies, and the light seems to shift in a way that makes everything look like a painting. It’s the kind of beauty that will have you pausing between casts to take it all in.

For anglers who love surface action, fall can still deliver. Late-season hatches of Blue-Winged Olives and midges tempt trout to rise, offering perfect opportunities for a carefully presented dry fly. On calm afternoons, the surface comes alive with subtle rises that make for exciting, technical fishing.

Wildlife encounters add another layer of magic to fall fishing in the Rockies. The bugling of elk echoes through the valleys, hawks circle overhead, and the occasional moose may wander near the water’s edge. It’s a reminder that in this season, you’re sharing the river with some of the park’s most iconic residents.

If you go, remember to dress in layers and bring a thermos. Fall mornings can be brisk, but the reward is a day filled with trout, quiet waters, and unforgettable views. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to the sport, there’s no better time to experience Rocky Mountain National Park. Book your guided trip with Fly Fish Estes Park this fall, and let us show you the season’s best fishing spots before the snow arrives.

What to Expect—and Ask—on a Walking and Wading Guided Fly Fishing Trip

A walking and wading guided fly fishing trip is an immersive experience for anglers who want to connect more deeply with the water, the fish, and the surrounding landscape. Unlike float trips, you’ll be on foot, hiking into the river and wading through prime fishing spots. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or a seasoned angler aiming to improve your skills, this type of trip offers personalized instruction and a more hands-on approach. But to make the most of it, it’s important to come prepared—not just with gear, but with the right questions.

Before booking, ask your outfitter about the difficulty level of the trip. How strenuous is the hiking and wading? Some rivers require navigating slippery rocks or walking long distances, so it’s key to match the trip to your fitness level. What gear is included in the trip, and what should I bring? Most outfitters provide rods, reels, flies, and waders, but confirming in advance will ensure you’re properly outfitted. It’s also helpful to ask, What’s the fishing like this time of year? so you can set realistic expectations about conditions and catch opportunities.

Once you meet your guide, don’t hesitate to ask more detailed questions: What flies are working right now and why? What techniques should I focus on today? Guides love sharing knowledge, and these questions open the door to a more educational and rewarding day. If you’re new to fly fishing or want to improve your casting, be upfront—Can we spend time focusing on technique? Good guides will tailor the day to your goals and skill level.

On the water, expect to move between various fish-holding areas—riffles, pools, and undercut banks—while learning how to read the river and present your fly naturally. You’ll spend most of the day standing in or near moving water, so sturdy wading boots and layered clothing are a must. Be sure to ask your guide about river etiquette and local conservation efforts—it’s a great way to connect with the area and become a more responsible angler.

Most importantly, remember to clearly express your goals for the trip. Whether you’re looking for an easy-access day on a well-traveled stream or an adventurous off-trail experience in remote water, sharing your preferences upfront helps your guide plan the best day possible for you. A little communication goes a long way in turning a day on the river into the perfect fly fishing adventure.

Planning your first fly fishing trip can be both exciting and a little overwhelming, but a few simple tips can set you up for success. Start by choosing a beginner-friendly location with accessible water and a healthy fish population—local ponds, small streams, or well-stocked rivers are great options. Focus on mastering a few basic casts and bring along a simple fly selection like midges, woolly buggers, and parachute adams. Keep your rigging straightforward, be patient with yourself, and don’t worry about perfection—fish respond more to good presentation than flawless form. Most importantly, slow down, observe the water, and enjoy the experience—fly fishing is as much about connection with nature as it is about catching fish.

Winter Fly Fishing: The Best Fly Selection and Gear for Cold-Weather Success

Winter fly fishing can be a rewarding challenge for anglers willing to brave the cold. While the fish may be sluggish, they are still feeding, and with the right flies and gear, you can enjoy productive days on the water. Here’s what you need to know about fly selection and essential winter gear.

Winter Fly Selection

During winter, trout and other fish slow down, so matching their feeding habits is crucial. Here are some of the best flies for cold-weather fly fishing:

1. Midges

Midges make up the majority of a trout’s diet in winter. Use small patterns (#18-#24) in colors like black, red, and olive. Popular choices include Zebra Midges, WD-40s, and Griffith’s Gnats.

2. Nymphs

Since fish often stay near the bottom in winter, nymphing is highly effective. Use patterns like Pheasant Tail Nymphs, Hare’s Ear Nymphs, and Prince Nymphs in sizes #14-#20.

3. Streamers

Although trout aren’t as aggressive in winter, they still take the occasional streamer. Slowly retrieving Woolly Buggers, Sculpzillas, or Muddler Minnows can entice big fish.

4. Egg Patterns

During winter, trout often feed on eggs left over from late-spawning fish. Use Glo Bugs or Otter’s Soft Eggs to mimic this easy meal.

Essential Winter Fly Fishing Gear

Staying warm and safe is just as important as having the right flies. Here’s the gear you’ll need:

1. Layered Clothing

Dressing in layers helps regulate your body temperature. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating mid-layer (such as fleece), and finish with a waterproof, windproof outer shell.

2. Waders and Boots

Cold water requires insulated waders. Neoprene or breathable waders with a thick layering system work well. Felt or rubber-soled boots with studs provide traction on icy rocks.

3. Gloves and Hand Warmers

Fingerless gloves with a fold-over mitten flap are ideal, allowing dexterity while keeping hands warm. Chemical hand warmers can also help maintain warmth.

4. Polarized Sunglasses

Glare from snow and ice can strain your eyes. Polarized sunglasses help reduce glare and allow you to spot fish more easily.

5. A Thermos of Hot Drink

Bringing along a thermos of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate can keep you warm and comfortable during long hours on the water.

Final Tips for Winter Fly Fishing

• Fish during the warmest part of the day (typically late morning to early afternoon).
• Focus on slow-moving, deeper pools where fish conserve energy.
• Use a slow presentation—trout won’t chase flies aggressively in cold water.
• Keep your gear dry and be mindful of icy conditions to prevent slips and falls.

Winter fly fishing requires patience and preparation, but it can lead to incredible experiences on the water. With the right flies and gear, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of the cold season.

 

Elevate Your Fly Tying: Tips and Techniques for Intermediate Tyers

 

Fly tying is an art form that combines creativity, skill, and patience. As an intermediate tyer, you’ve already mastered the basics and are ready to elevate your craft. The journey to becoming an expert involves refining your skills, experimenting with new materials, and developing your unique style. This post will explore advanced techniques, tools, and tips to help you create more effective and intricate flies, ensuring you catch more fish and enjoy the process even more.

 

As you delve deeper into fly tying, you’ll find that understanding the characteristics of different materials is crucial. Materials like marabou, hackle, and synthetics each offer unique qualities that can significantly affect the behavior of your fly in the water.

– Marabou is known for its soft, flowing fibers that provide excellent movement, making it ideal for streamers and wet flies.
– Hackle feathers add buoyancy and create a lifelike appearance, often used in dry flies to imitate the legs and wings of insects.
– Synthetics like Flashabou or Krystal Flash can add a bit of sparkle and mimic the shine of fish scales, making your flies more attractive to fish.

Understanding these properties allows you to choose materials that match the specific conditions and species you are targeting.

Choosing the Right Hook

The hook is the foundation of your fly, and selecting the right one is crucial for effective fly presentation. Here are some tips for choosing the right hook:

– Match the Hook to the Fly Type: Dry flies generally use lighter, thinner hooks, while nymphs and streamers may require heavier, sturdier options.
– Consider the Target Species: Larger fish need stronger hooks, while smaller species require more delicate options.
– Think About Presentation: The size and weight of the hook affect how the fly sits or moves in the water, impacting how realistic it appears to the fish.

Experimenting with New Materials

Don’t be afraid to experiment with new materials to discover unique combinations. Trying out innovative materials like CDC (Cul de Canard) feathers or Jungle Cock eyes can add new dimensions to your flies. This experimentation keeps your fly tying fresh and exciting and can lead to more successful patterns in the water.

Section 2: Mastering Advanced Techniques

Proportion and Balance

Proportion and balance are critical in fly tying, especially when working on more complex patterns. A well-proportioned fly will mimic the natural prey of fish, increasing your chances of a successful catch.

– Proportion Tips: Pay attention to the length of tails, the size of wings, and the body thickness. Consistency in these areas creates more lifelike flies.
– Balance Techniques: Ensure the fly’s weight is evenly distributed, so it swims naturally. This may involve adjusting the materials used or how they are placed on the hook.

Advanced Knotting and Thread Control

Perfecting your knotting and thread control can significantly impact the quality of your flies.

– Whip Finish and Half Hitch: Master these essential knots to secure your materials neatly and securely. A whip finish ensures your fly stays intact, while a half hitch can add extra security during tying.
– Thread Tension: Consistent tension helps keep materials in place and creates a smoother finish. Practice maintaining the right tension throughout the tying process for cleaner ties.

Complex Patterns and Designs

As an intermediate tyer, you can start experimenting with more complex fly patterns. Let’s explore a couple of intricate designs that challenge your skills.

Example Patterns:

1. Clouser Minnow

– Materials: Bucktail, Krystal Flash, Dumbbell Eyes, Hook size 4-6.
– Description: A versatile pattern that mimics baitfish, suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.
– Techniques: Focus on material placement for balanced swimming and precise threading for durability.

2. Copper John

– Materials: Copper wire, Goose biots, Peacock herl, Pheasant tail, Hook size 12-18.
– Description: An effective nymph pattern known for its flash and weight, perfect for getting deep in fast waters.
– Techniques: Practice winding wire tightly for a segmented body and use biots for realistic tails.

Step-by-Step Guide to Tying a Copper John:

1. Start by threading your hook in the vise and attach the copper wire at the hook’s bend.
2. Wrap the wire towards the eye, creating a smooth body.
3. Add goose biots for the tail, ensuring they are symmetrical.
4. Attach peacock herl for the thorax, followed by pheasant tail fibers for legs.
5. Secure all materials with a whip finish, adding a drop of head cement for durability.

Section 3: Tools of the Trade

Investing in Quality Tools

Quality tools are essential for producing professional-looking flies and improving your overall experience.

– Scissors: Invest in sharp, precision scissors for cutting materials cleanly and accurately.
– Bobbins: A smooth, quality bobbin allows for better thread control and reduces the risk of breaking.
– Vices: A sturdy vice holds hooks securely, enabling you to work with precision and confidence.

Using high-quality tools will improve the final product and make tying more enjoyable and efficient.

Conclusion

As an intermediate fly tyer, the journey is about refining your skills and expanding your creativity. By mastering advanced techniques, selecting the right materials, and investing in quality tools, you can create flies that are both functional and works of art. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep tying and experimenting to discover what works best for you.

 

Are you ready to take your fly-tying skills to the next level? Share your experiences and favorite techniques in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more tips and tutorials on fly fishing and tying.

**Additional Resources**

– **Recommended Books:**
– *The Art of Fly Tying* by John van Vliet
– *Fly Tying: 30 Years of Tips, Tricks, and Patterns* by Jack Dennis

– **Online Communities:**
– [Fly Tying Forum](https://www.flytyingforum.com/)
– Reddit’s [Fly Tying Subreddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/flytying/)

– **YouTube Channels for Inspiration:**
– Tightline Productions
– InTheRiffle Fly Tying

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This comprehensive guide aims to educate and inspire intermediate fly tyers to push their boundaries and innovate. Feel free to adjust the content based on your personal experiences or your audience’s preferences. Happy tying!

Fly tying is a captivating and rewarding aspect of fly fishing that allows anglers to craft their own lures, adding a personal touch to their fishing experience. For beginners, stepping into the world of fly tying can seem daunting with its myriad of tools, materials, and techniques. However, it is a craft that combines patience, creativity, and a love for detail, making it an enjoyable and fulfilling hobby. Starting with simple patterns and basic tools, such as hooks, feathers, and thread, novices can quickly grasp the fundamental skills. With each fly tied, there’s an opportunity to understand the intricate details that make each fly unique and effective.

One of the best ways for beginners to start fly tying is by focusing on creating a few basic patterns. Patterns like the Woolly Bugger, Hare’s Ear Nymph, and Pheasant Tail Nymph are great starting points due to their simplicity and effectiveness in catching fish. These patterns not only teach the essential techniques, such as wrapping thread and securing materials, but also provide a strong foundation for more complex creations in the future. As beginners progress, they can experiment with different materials and colors, gradually developing their own style and preference, which is one of the joys of fly tying.

Fly tying is more than just creating lures; it’s a form of artistic expression and a meditative practice. As beginners refine their skills, they’ll find themselves immersed in the meticulous process, which offers a wonderful escape from the daily grind. The satisfaction of catching a fish on a fly you’ve tied yourself is unparalleled, adding a new dimension to the fishing experience. With the wealth of online resources, videos, and local fly tying clubs, beginners can easily find support and inspiration to nurture their fly tying journey. So, pick up those tools, start experimenting, and let your creativity flow as you embark on this rewarding adventure.

Stay tuned as we continue our fly tying posts in part 2.

Basic Entomology for Fishing in Rocky Mountain National Park During Summer

Fishing in Rocky Mountain National Park during the summer months offers a unique and rewarding experience, largely due to the diverse insect life that supports a healthy fish population. Understanding the basic entomology of the area can significantly enhance your fishing success, whether you’re casting in the park’s pristine streams or its crystal-clear lakes. Here’s a guide to the key insects you’ll encounter and the best patterns to mimic them.

– Stream Entomology

**Mayflies (Order: Ephemeroptera)**
– **Hatch Season**: May to September
– **Key Species**: Blue-Winged Olives (BWO), Pale Morning Duns (PMD)
– **Appearance**: Delicate, upright wings and slender bodies.
– **Nymphs**: Imitate with RS2s, Pheasant Tails, and Hare’s Ears.
– **Adults**: Use Parachute Adams, BWO patterns, and PMD dries.

**Caddisflies (Order: Trichoptera)**
– **Hatch Season**: Late May to October
– **Key Species**: Green Caddis, Tan Caddis
– **Appearance**: Tent-like wings when at rest, often seen skittering on the water surface.
– **Larvae**: Try Caddis Larva patterns, green or tan.
– **Adults**: Elk Hair Caddis and X-Caddis are effective patterns.

**Stoneflies (Order: Plecoptera)**
– **Hatch Season**: Late spring to early summer for larger species; smaller species (Yellow Sallies) hatch throughout summer.
– **Key Species**: Golden Stones, Yellow Sallies
– **Appearance**: Large, robust bodies with flat wings.
– **Nymphs**: Pats Rubber Legs, Golden Stone Nymphs.
– **Adults**: Stimulators, Yellow Sally dries.

– Lake Entomology

**Midges (Order: Diptera)**
– **Hatch Season**: Year-round, peak in summer.
– **Key Species**: Chironomids
– **Appearance**: Small, mosquito-like insects.
– **Larvae/Pupae**: Copper Ribbed RS2, Zebra Midge.
– **Adults**: Griffith’s Gnat, Parachute Midge.

**Damselflies and Dragonflies (Order: Odonata)**
– **Hatch Season**: Late spring to early fall.
– **Key Species**: Various Damselflies and Dragonflies.
– **Appearance**: Long, slender bodies with two pairs of wings.
– **Nymphs**: Damselfly Nymph patterns.
– **Adults**: Use imitations like the Parachute Adams for surface action.

**Callibaetis (Order: Ephemeroptera)**
– **Hatch Season**: June to September.
– **Appearance**: Speckled wings and long tails.
– **Nymphs**: Pheasant Tail Nymphs, Hare’s Ears.
– **Adults**: Callibaetis dries and spinners.

– Tips for Fishing in Rocky Mountain National Park

1. **Match the Hatch**: Pay attention to the insects around you and try to match their size, shape, and color with your fly patterns.
2. **Use a Variety of Flies**: Carry a range of nymphs, emergers, and dry flies to cover all stages of insect life cycles.
3. **Adjust Your Techniques**: Use longer leaders and finer tippets in clear water, and be ready to switch between nymphing, dry fly fishing, and even streamers depending on the conditions.
4. **Fish the Right Areas**: In streams, target riffles, pools, and undercut banks where insects are abundant. In lakes, focus on the inlets, outlets, and areas with weed beds.

– Conclusion

Understanding the basic entomology of Rocky Mountain National Park can greatly enhance your fishing experience. By familiarizing yourself with the local insect life and their hatching patterns, you’ll be better equipped to select the right flies and employ the most effective techniques. Whether you’re fishing in the park’s streams or lakes, a well-informed approach will increase your chances of success and make your time on the water more enjoyable.

Remember, the key to successful fishing lies in observation, adaptation, and a bit of entomological knowledge. So, pack your fly box with a variety of patterns, stay patient, and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park this summer. Tight lines!