Denver among best winter fly fishing spots in Colorado

DENVER (KDVR) — Fly fishing enthusiasts in Colorado have the opportunity to enjoy the state’s “secret season.” While the cold weather is no secret in Colorado, it is the factor that creates the conditions for fly fishing’s secret season.

Adding a winter before fly fishing isn’t the only change that comes with the cold. The fish’s behavior changes as the water gets cooler, the fisher’s gear must change and tiny nuances in methodology must be performed.

Colorado remains a fly fishing hub regardless of the time of year but prime locations can change with the season. For those around the Denver Metro, there are several spots within a short drive that can offer a great winter fly fishing experience, according to Fishing Booker.

Quick drives from the Denver Metro

Denver, South Platte River — Carp and trout are the hot items in this area. Eleven Mile, Cheesman and Waterton canyons have historically been popular places.

Loveland, Big Thompson River — This hub for the cold is the trout fisher’s dream. The location can offer Rainbow, Laker, Brown and Cutthroat trout.

Vail, Gore Creek — Located off of Interstate 70, this spot near the famous ski town can offer a great supply of trout. Brown, Rainbow, Brook and Cutthroat travel in the creek.

Silverthorne, Blue River — Possibly Colorado’s most popular winter fly fishing spot, Blue River is populated with trout. Cutthroat, Rainbow, Brown and the rare Cutthroat and Brown trout hybrid, the Cutbow.

Other hot spots around Colorado

Pueblo, Arkansas River — Big Rainbow Trout

Gunnison, Taylor/Gunnison River — Brown, Rainbow and Kokanee trout

South Fork, Rio Grande — Rainbow and Brown trout

Kremmling, Upper Colorado River — Rainbow and Brown trout