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)
Tan And Olive caddis patterns
Small hoppers, ants, and yellow sallies on top
General Tactics
Low water and high temps
Avoid the Canyon if possible between 11am and 5pm
Best fishing in the Alpine lakes and streams of RMNP
Plan on low clear water, high visibility, and easily spooked fish
Wild Basin, St Vrain is river are cooler and fishing well.
Smaller natural Dry Flies, and small nymphs
6X–7X tippet
Focus on riffles, pour-overs and quicker, cooler water
Fishing in the park is productive morning- evening
Black ants are top of the menu, mid day, and into the afternoon
Seasonal Outlook
August is here and so is the summer heat, low elevation rivers are low and hot. Despite low warm water, fishing remains productive for anglers who adjust their approach and focus on the right water types. Rocky Mountain National Park has the best conditions in the area, please be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms.
This time of year rewards anglers who fish early or late in the day, target faster water, or are willing to put in the time hiking to higher elevations.
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 — AVOID MID-day
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 water temps into the 50’s variable conditions throughout the day. Fish are concentrated in faster water and deeper pools, and are often feeding aggressively when presentations reach the proper depth.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Excellent-Dry fly time!
Prime conditions in the Park! Get up early and beat the crowds to the trails, Or
Come up in the evenings and savor some amazing dry fly action as the sun sets.
Best Fly Fishing in Estes Park (2026 Guide): Where to Go, When to Fish, and What Actually Works
If you’re planning to fish Estes Park, Colorado, the real question isn’t “Is the fishing good?” It’s: Where should you fish right now—and how should you adjust? This guide breaks down the best waters, timing, and tactics for the Big Thompson River, Lake Estes, and nearby Rocky Mountain National Park streams based on real seasonal behavior. Quick Answer: Where Should...
3 Fly Fishing Mistakes That Cost You Fish
If you’re struggling to catch trout in Estes Park—especially on the Big Thompson River—you’re not alone. Every day, we guide anglers of all skill levels, and the same problems show up again and again. What’s interesting is that our clients often notice the difference immediately once these mistakes are fixed. One recent guest put it best: “I’ve fished for years...
