Latest Update:6/20/2025

Fishing Report

---

Rocky Mountain National Park & Upper Big Thompson Fly Fishing Report – Mid-June

Flows in Rocky Mountain National Park have peaked and are beginning to gradually recede. The flow coming out of Moraine Park was at 295 cfs on Sunday morning. Both Moraine and Horseshoe Parks are fishing well, especially during the midday window. Heavier nymph rigs with larger Perdigons and Pat’s Rubber Legs are key to getting down in the water column effectively.

Alpine lakes below 10,000 feet are now largely ice-free. These lakes are producing well with small midges, as well as terrestrial patterns like ants and beetles, particularly during warmer afternoons.

On the Upper Big Thompson, the flow has dropped to 160 cfs, and runoff appears to be behind us. Fishing has been consistently strong with steady hatches of PMDs, caddis, and stonefly nymphs, in addition to the usual midges and blue-winged olives. Smaller sow bugs have been especially effective in recent days.

Hot Flies – RMNP & Upper Big Thompson:

Dry Flies:

• PMDs
• Black Elk Hair Caddis
• Ant Patterns
• Amy’s Ant
• BWOs
• Parachute Adams

Nymphs & Subsurface:

• Pat’s Rubber Legs
• Pheasant Tails (CDC variations work well)
• Copper Ribbed RS2
• Radiation Baetis
• Taboo Caddis
• Mini Leeches
• Olive Tickets
• Gray Sow Bugs
• Small Midges
• Double Downs
• Mighty Mites
• San Juan Worms
• Egg Patterns

The next few weeks should offer excellent opportunities as flows stabilize and insect activity continues to rise. Adjust your weight and fly size to match conditions, and don’t overlook terrestrials during warm, calm afternoons.