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.
Why Every Angler Should Fish a New Water at Least Once a Year
It’s easy to fall into a routine on the same stretch of river — the same runs, the same flies, the same comfort zone. But some of the best growth as an angler happens when you step into unfamiliar water. Fishing new rivers, lakes, or backcountry stretches forces you to read water differently, adjust techniques, and trust your instincts. It...
December Fly Fishing in Estes Park: Why Winter is the Most Underrated Season
Most people pack up their rods when the snow starts falling — but December is actually one of the most peaceful and rewarding times to fish in Estes Park. With fewer anglers, crystal-clear water, and stable tailwater flows, winter offers a rare chance to experience the Big Thompson River in its quietest, most technical form. Trout become selective and hold...
