Colorado

The Arkansas River through Colorado's Upper Arkansas Valley is one of the most productive and accessible fly fishing rivers in the state, offering over 100 miles of quality trout water between Leadville and Canon City. With trout counts reaching 5,000 per mile in the best sections, outstanding float fishing through Brown's Canyon National Monument, and a year-round fishery supported by diverse hatches, the Arkansas delivers exceptional fishing in a spectacular mountain setting.

The upper Colorado River between Granby and Kremmling flows through a scenic valley of cottonwoods and willows in Grand County, offering Gold Medal trout fishing in a relatively uncrowded setting. This is big water with diverse opportunities, from walk-and-wade fishing in the Hot Sulphur Springs area to outstanding float trips through Byers Canyon and the ranch country downstream.

The Frying Pan River is one of Colorado's premier tailwater fisheries, flowing 14 miles of Gold Medal water from below Ruedi Reservoir to its confluence with the Roaring Fork River at Basalt. Known worldwide for its Mysis Shrimp-fed trout, gin-clear water, and demanding technical fishing, the Pan rewards anglers who master delicate presentations and patience.

The Gunnison River through the Black Canyon and Gunnison Gorge is Colorado's ultimate wilderness fly fishing experience, combining the highest trout density of any river in the state with breathtaking 2,000-foot canyon walls and a remote backcountry setting. Designated both Gold Medal and Wild Trout water, the Gorge demands effort to reach but rewards with fishing that rivals any destination in the West.

The South Platte River is Colorado's most iconic Front Range trout fishery, offering world-class sight fishing in crystal-clear tailwater conditions. Its multiple sections (Dream Stream, Eleven Mile Canyon, Cheesman Canyon, and Deckers) each provide distinct character and challenge, drawing anglers from across the country to match wits with notoriously selective trout.