Summer is here, and there is no better time to fish in the Colorado high country. We are fortunate to guide and fish right out of Estes Park. There are countless opportunities to find good fishing within a 10-minute drive from the downtown area. Lake Estes, the Big Thompson River flowing into the lake, and the tailwater below are a few of the closest options. If numbers of fish are what you are after, a trip to Lake Estes would be at the top of my list. The power plant area and the inlet are good places to start. Find the river channel and hang and attractor nymph and a leech under an indicator and you should find success!
The Big Thompson River above the lake is another great option. Trout love current and the food it can bring, there is some decent access from the lake up through the golf course. If the water is high, look for the softest water possible. If its late summer look for fish in the faster, more oxygenated water. Leeches, worm, attractor nymphs, and dries can all be effective here depending upon time of year and water clarity.
Last but not least, there is the Big T tailwater. This stretch tends to fish small but there are plenty of fish to go around. The average size of fish is best in this stretch. Treat it like any other tailwater, smaller is better, in tippet and fly size. Midges and blue wings are generally on the menu. In the summer months a caddis dry can be very productive. If the water is high don't be afraid to try a worm, a sowbug, or even a stonefly.
We know all these waters very well. For more information, or to book a trip with one of our guides please reach out!
