A visitor's guide to fly fishing in Colorado

Colorado is filled with great fly fishing destinations. With all the great choices, how does one decide where to go? This article will help. All of the destinations that follow have exceptional trout fishing, but I have broken them down further by other characteristics.

For seclusion, spectacular scenery, and a unique experience:

Float your line in wild Animas River. Reserve a seat on the Durango-Silverton Narrow Gage Train and arrange to hop off mid-way at Elk Creek. Upon jumping off the train, you will find yourself on the banks of a wild, trout-filled, river in the middle of a spectacular wilderness. Don't ignore the tributaries, like Elk Creek, home of some unusually fat brookies. Bring food, water, basic survival gear, and a good topo map. The scenery is unforgettable.

Runner up: The Conejos River downstream from Platoro Reservoir offers a sensational fly fishing experience for fat brown trout. This place has a rugged "back-in-time" feel accessed by a backcountry dirt road.

For easy access from Denver:

If you only have time for a quick trip from Denver, head to the legendary South Platte River. Some stretches offer exceptionally large rainbow and brown trout.

Runner up: A stretch of the Big Thompson River below Estes Park meanders through large meadows with the backdrop of the high peaks in Rocky Mountain National Park. You may be sharing the meadow with some of Estes Park's friendly elk.

For large trout:

Try the green waters of the Gunnison at the downstream end of the Black Canyon. If you are really adventurous, you can take one of the extraordinarily steep hikes down into the canyon itself for a shot at the heavy brown and rainbows that lurk in the deep pools there. Inquire about these routes from the National Park Service as they are not to be taken lightly.

Runner up: The Roaring Fork River between Aspen and Glenwood Springs is famous for its exceptionally large rainbows, and it is easier to access than the Gunnison. Head downstream after fishing to soak in the Glenwood Hot Springs.

Best Small Streams:

The alpine expanse of the Flattops Wilderness in northwest Colorado harbors countless meandering small streams and alpine lakes filled with well-fed trout. Stop in Steamboat Springs on the way back for a taste of a true western town.

Runner up: The upper section of the Cache La Poudre River flows north out of Rocky Mountain National Park before swinging west down to Fort Collins. Here you will find about 15 miles of trail access along the beautiful 20 foot wide, trout-filled, mountain stream.

For Colorado, lighter gear and shorter rods are preferable. Most Colorado mountain towns have fly shops with knowledgeable locals. Visit one of these local shops on your way to the stream to get the inside scoop on which flies to use at that time. Many of these places also offer guided trips. The best time to float your fly is from Mid July through Early October, after the spring run-off.