Arkansas River
Lower

Friday 2/22, 2019

Flow at Wellsville: 405 cfs

Water Temp.: Mid-30s

Clarity: Some ice flows on the coldest mornings. Clarity has been good upstream of Vallie Bridge, but below Coaldale, conditions are still poor following runoff from the Hayden Pass Fire burnscar. Considerable shelf ice in the lower basin in shaded regions.

(Scroll down for New Year Sale info)

Spring Rowing School: March 27-31

Spring 101 Fly Fishing Class Dates: March 23, April 13, April 27, May 11, June 1

Call 719-539-4223 or email [email protected] with questions or to make your reservation.

Friday Report - Braden Baker

Following increased project water releases from Twin Lakes to Pueblo Reservoir, we're now looking at flows around 400 cfs below Salida. This movement of water during the winter and spring is being made in an attempt to protect the fishery during the critical months of spring, when brown trout fry emerge from the redds, several key hatches occur, and our resident trout are able to feed in preparation for the high water season of summer. Rather than purge Twin Lakes and Turquoise Reservoir later in the spring to make room for incoming runoff and imported water, endangering that critical spring season with higher flows and over-stressing the fish, water managers move a small amount of water throughout the winter and spring to prepare for the eventual snowmelt. With target flows for the river during the spring being between 250-400 cfs (which is the ideal flow range for the health of the local brown trout population and coincidentally ideal for spring hatches of mayflies, caddis, etc.), the gradual release will help ensure that our brown trout fry are able to get safely established, that the critical spring hatches are successful and available to the fish, and that Arkansas River trout are in peak condition heading into the stresses of runoff and summer flows.

Following nighttime lows in the single digits, a little slush flow is moving through the river this morning. This weekend looks to warm day by day, and next week we'll be back near 50 degrees! Generally, the best time of day to fish is generally 10am to 3pm, during the warmest and sunniest hours. Guide trips are reporting excellent mid-day fish feeding activity, primarily on midges, and great luck on larger attractors like stonefly nymphs. This is the time of year when we begin to encounter molting stonefly nymphs vulnerable in the river, so stonefly nymph patterns become true forage options rather than mere attractors. We've also had scattered reports of good success on flies imitating both caddis larva and immature baetis nymphs. This would indicate that the spring behavioral drifts of these insect varieties are underway, and these fly imitations will be increasingly effective as we move towards the hatches of spring.

Fish are congregated together in some of the deeper runs and pools typical of winter. However, on warmer days fish will move into the shallows to feed on daily insect drifts. Depth is critical during these months, so cover water thoroughly by adjusting weight and depth. A slow, methodical approach can pay big dividends.

FYI Salida East is no longer a free access point! Prepare for day fees as you would the other recreation area sites.

Salida Spring Sale Items

(Discontinued or previous years models):

Simms Waders ~40% off!

Mens Freestone Stockingfoot Wader Retail: $249.95, Sale: $150

Mens Freestone Pant Wader Retail: $229.95, Sale: $140

Simms Boots ~40% off!

Mens Freestone Felt and Vibram Boots Retail: $149.95, Sale: $90

Mens Vaportread Rubber Boots Retail: $179.95, Sale: $110

Rock Creek Felt Boots Retail: $99.95, Sale: $60

Sale also includes:

Discontinued rods from Sage, Scott, Orvis, and Redington

Discontinued reels from Ross and Sage

Discontinued fly Lines from Rio and Scientific Anglers

(Call 719-539-3474 for specific pricing and sizes.)

Salida Shop: 7500 W. Highway 50, 719-539-4223 / Open Monday-Saturday 8:30-5:30, Sunday 8:30-3:00.

Buena Vista Shop: 517 S. Highway 24, 719-395-1796 / Open Thursday-Saturday, 9:00-5:00.

Wednesday 2/20, 2019

Flow at Wellsville: 280 cfs

Water Temp.: Mid-30s

Clarity: Some ice flows on the coldest mornings. Clarity has been good upstream of Vallie Bridge, but below Coaldale, conditions are still poor following runoff from the Hayden Pass Fire burnscar. Considerable shelf ice in the lower basin in shaded regions.

(Scroll down for New Year Sale info)

Spring Rowing School: March 27-31

Spring 101 Fly Fishing Class Dates: March 23, April 13, April 27, May 11, June 1

Call 719-539-4223 or email [email protected] with questions or to make your reservation.

Wednesday Report - Braden Baker

Following increased project water releases from Twin Lakes to Pueblo Reservoir, we're now looking at flows around 300 cfs below Salida. This movement of water during the winter and spring is being made in an attempt to protect the fishery during the critical months of spring, when brown trout fry emerge from the redds, several key hatches occur, and our resident trout are able to feed in preparation for the high water season of summer. Rather than purge Twin Lakes and Turquoise Reservoir later in the spring to make room for incoming runoff and imported water, endangering that critical spring season with higher flows and over-stressing the fish, water managers move a small amount of water throughout the winter and spring to prepare for the eventual snowmelt. With target flows for the river during the spring being between 250-400 cfs (which is the ideal flow range for the health of the local brown trout population and coincidentally ideal for spring hatches of mayflies, caddis, etc.), the gradual release will help ensure that our brown trout fry are able to get safely established, that the critical spring hatches are successful and available to the fish, and that Arkansas River trout are in peak condition heading into the stresses of runoff and summer flows.

Following nighttime lows in the single digits, considerable slush flow is moving through the river this morning. It is also extremely windy in the valley. We expect the river to clear by 11 or 11:30am, but intrepid anglers will need to work to dodge the cold gusts. Temperatures gradually warm as we head into the weekend, but we still anticipate some slush each morning. Generally, the best time of day to fish is generally 10am to 3pm, during the warmest and sunniest hours. Guide trips are reporting excellent mid-day fish feeding activity, primarily on midges, and great luck on larger attractors like stonefly nymphs. This is the time of year when we begin to encounter molting stonefly nymphs vulnerable in the river, so stonefly nymph patterns become true forage options rather than mere attractors. We've also had scattered reports of good success on flies imitating both caddis larva and immature baetis nymphs. This would indicate that the spring behavioral drifts of these insect varieties are underway, and these fly imitations will be increasingly effective as we move towards the hatches of spring.

Fish are congregated together in some of the deeper runs and pools typical of winter. However, on warmer days fish will move into the shallows to feed on daily insect drifts. Depth is critical during these months, so cover water thoroughly by adjusting weight and depth. A slow, methodical approach can pay big dividends.

FYI Salida East is no longer a free access point! Prepare for day fees as you would the other recreation area sites.

Salida Spring Sale Items

(Discontinued or previous years models):

Simms Waders ~40% off!

Mens Freestone Stockingfoot Wader Retail: $249.95, Sale: $150

Mens Freestone Pant Wader Retail: $229.95, Sale: $140

Simms Boots ~40% off!

Mens Freestone Felt and Vibram Boots Retail: $149.95, Sale: $90

Mens Vaportread Rubber Boots Retail: $179.95, Sale: $110

Rock Creek Felt Boots Retail: $99.95, Sale: $60

Sale also includes:

Discontinued rods from Sage, Scott, Orvis, and Redington

Discontinued reels from Ross and Sage

Discontinued fly Lines from Rio and Scientific Anglers

(Call 719-539-3474 for specific pricing and sizes.)

Salida Shop: 7500 W. Highway 50, 719-539-4223 / Open Monday-Saturday 8:30-5:30, Sunday 8:30-3:00.

Buena Vista Shop: 517 S. Highway 24, 719-395-1796 / Open Thursday-Saturday, 9:00-5:00.

Wednesday 2/20, 2019

Flow at Wellsville: 280 cfs

Water Temp.: Mid-30s

Clarity: Some ice flows on the coldest mornings. Clarity has been good upstream of Vallie Bridge, but below Coaldale, conditions are still poor following runoff from the Hayden Pass Fire burnscar. Considerable shelf ice in the lower basin in shaded regions.

(Scroll down for New Year Sale info)

Spring Rowing School: March 27-31

Spring 101 Fly Fishing Class Dates: March 23, April 13, April 27, May 11, June 1

Call 719-539-4223 or email [email protected] with questions or to make your reservation.

Wednesday Report - Braden Baker

Following increased project water releases from Twin Lakes to Pueblo Reservoir, we're now looking at flows around 300 cfs below Salida. This movement of water during the winter and spring is being made in an attempt to protect the fishery during the critical months of spring, when brown trout fry emerge from the redds, several key hatches occur, and our resident trout are able to feed in preparation for the high water season of summer. Rather than purge Twin Lakes and Turquoise Reservoir later in the spring to make room for incoming runoff and imported water, endangering that critical spring season with higher flows and over-stressing the fish, water managers move a small amount of water throughout the winter and spring to prepare for the eventual snowmelt. With target flows for the river during the spring being between 250-400 cfs (which is the ideal flow range for the health of the local brown trout population and coincidentally ideal for spring hatches of mayflies, caddis, etc.), the gradual release will help ensure that our brown trout fry are able to get safely established, that the critical spring hatches are successful and available to the fish, and that Arkansas River trout are in peak condition heading into the stresses of runoff and summer flows.

Following nighttime lows in the single digits, considerable slush flow is moving through the river this morning. It is also extremely windy in the valley. We expect the river to clear by 11 or 11:30am, but intrepid anglers will need to work to dodge the cold gusts. Temperatures gradually warm as we head into the weekend, but we still anticipate some slush each morning. Generally, the best time of day to fish is generally 10am to 3pm, during the warmest and sunniest hours. Guide trips are reporting excellent mid-day fish feeding activity, primarily on midges, and great luck on larger attractors like stonefly nymphs. This is the time of year when we begin to encounter molting stonefly nymphs vulnerable in the river, so stonefly nymph patterns become true forage options rather than mere attractors. We've also had scattered reports of good success on flies imitating both caddis larva and immature baetis nymphs. This would indicate that the spring behavioral drifts of these insect varieties are underway, and these fly imitations will be increasingly effective as we move towards the hatches of spring.

Fish are congregated together in some of the deeper runs and pools typical of winter. However, on warmer days fish will move into the shallows to feed on daily insect drifts. Depth is critical during these months, so cover water thoroughly by adjusting weight and depth. A slow, methodical approach can pay big dividends.

FYI Salida East is no longer a free access point! Prepare for day fees as you would the other recreation area sites.

Salida New Year Sale Items at 15-50% off (Discontinued or previous years models):

Waders:

Freestone Z Wader

Freestone Stockingfoot Wader

Freestone Pant Wader

Boots:

Freestone Felt and Vibram Boots

Vaportread Rubber Boots

Rock Creek Felt Boots

Rods:

9 4wt. 4pc. Sage Method

9 6wt. 4pc. Sage Approach

9 4wt. 4pc. Approach Outfit w/ Sage 2230 Reel

9 6wt. 4pc. Scott A4

9 6wt. 4pc. Redington Path (Past season model)

9 5wt. 4pc. Redington Path (Past season model)

Reels:

Ross Animas: 4/5, 5/6 (Past season model)

Ross Cimarron 2: 3/4, 4/5, 5/6

Ross Rapid 3/4

Fly Lines:

Rio Lines, Fresh and Salt (Past season models)

Scientific Anglers Sharkwave Textured

Scientific Anglers Wavelength Textured

Misc:

ArkAnglers L/S logo fishing shirts

Orvis Clearwater Vests (Past season model)

Select packs from Simms, Fishpond, and Patagonia (Past season models)

And MORE!

(Call for specific pricing and sizes.)

Salida Shop: 7500 W. Highway 50, 719-539-4223 / Open Monday-Saturday 8:30-5:30, Sunday 8:30-3:00.

Buena Vista Shop: 517 S. Highway 24, 719-395-1796 / Open Thursday-Saturday, 9:00-5:00.

General Overview

Its been alot like winter here this week, with high temperatures only in the 30's. Good news on the horizon, however, with highs in the 40's and 50's for the rest of the week. Next week looks abnormally warm for late February, so from this weekend on, we should have some nice options in Canon City and Upper Bighorn Canyon.

Water temps have been fluctuating with cooler weather, which will affect the fishing dramatically. Its best to focus on warm days that are preceded by a warm overnight low. In addition focus your efforts between the hours of 11AM and 3PM.

Call Us Toll Free (888) 994-6743 for up to the minute reports or if you have any questions about the other countless fly fishing opportunities in our area.

For guided trips on the Arkansas, other drainages and our private ranches..... Call Us Toll Free (888) 994-6743 or CLICK HERE for more information.

Stream Conditions

Wellsville Flowrate: 282 CFS

Canon City Flowrate: 352 CFS

Clarity: Clear (On Warm Days some Shelf Ice Melt will stain the water from Texas Creek Downstream)

The VFMP (Voluntary Flow Management Program) is in effect now with around 80cfs of release out of Twin Lakes. We will continue to see some augmented release due to the current snowpack levels (over 100%) in order to make room for incoming snow melt in Late May.

Suggested Methods

We're moving out of winter into Late Spring on the Arkansas River Basin. While there will be some cold, less opportune days to be on the river...remember, that the Lower Basin is in the Banana Belt of Colorado and receives much warmer weather than much of the state. Watch the weather and look for days in the 40's and 50's with overnight lows around 30 degrees...those will be the days when you can expect fair productivity. On the bug scene, much of what we focus on is in the Midge lifecycle along with our standard staples of Stoneflies, Caddis Larva and BWO nymphs. Focus your efforts on the substrate in deeper tail-outs.

Monday 2/19, 2019

Flow at Wellsville: 300 cfs

Water Temp.: Mid-High 30s

Clarity: Some ice flows on the coldest mornings. Clarity has been good upstream of Vallie Bridge, but below Coaldale, conditions are still poor following runoff from the Hayden Pass Fire burnscar. Considerable shelf ice in the lower basin in shaded regions.

(Scroll down for New Year Sale info)

Spring Rowing School: March 27-31

Spring 101 Fly Fishing Class Dates: March 23, April 13, April 27, May 11, June 1

Call 719-539-4223 or email [email protected] with questions or to make your reservation.

Monday Report - Braden Baker

Following increased project water releases from Twin Lakes to Pueblo Reservoir, we're now looking at flows around 300 cfs below Salida. This movement of water during the winter and spring is being made in an attempt to protect the fishery during the critical months of spring, when brown trout fry emerge from the redds, several key hatches occur, and our resident trout are able to feed in preparation for the high water season of summer. Rather than purge Twin Lakes and Turquoise Reservoir later in the spring to make room for incoming runoff and imported water, endangering that critical spring season with higher flows and over-stressing the fish, water managers move a small amount of water throughout the winter and spring to prepare for the eventual snowmelt. With target flows for the river during the spring being between 250-400 cfs (which is the ideal flow range for the health of the local brown trout population and coincidentally ideal for spring hatches of mayflies, caddis, etc.), the gradual release will help ensure that our brown trout fry are able to get safely established, that the critical spring hatches are successful and available to the fish, and that Arkansas River trout are in peak condition heading into the stresses of runoff and summer flows.

The river is quite slushy this morning from the colder night last night. The forecast is calling for tempuratures to be in the mid to upper 20's today which wont allow for much of a warm up on the river and the slush will most likely remain throughout the morning. The last few days with warmer tempuratures were very productive however and the forecast shows a slightly warmer week ahead which could result in some good opportunities. The best time of day to fish is generally 10am to 3pm, during the warmest and sunniest hours. Guide trips are reporting excellent mid-day fish feeding activity, primarily on midges, and great luck on larger attractors like stonefly nymphs. This is the time of year when we begin to encounter molting stonefly nymphs vulnerable in the river, so stonefly nymph patterns become true forage options rather than mere attractors. We've also had scattered reports of good success on flies imitating both caddis larva and immature baetis nymphs. This would indicate that the spring behavioral drifts of these insect varieties are underway, and these fly imitations will be increasingly effective as we move towards the hatches of spring.

Fish are congregated together in some of the deeper runs and pools typical of winter. However, on warmer days fish will move into the shallows to feed on daily insect drifts. Depth is critical during these months, so cover water thoroughly by adjusting weight and depth. A slow, methodical approach can pay big dividends.

FYI Salida East is no longer a free access point! Prepare for day fees as you would the other recreation area sites.

Salida New Year Sale Items at 15-50% off (Discontinued or previous years models):

Waders:

Freestone Z Wader

Freestone Stockingfoot Wader

Freestone Pant Wader

Boots:

Freestone Felt and Vibram Boots

Vaportread Rubber Boots

Rock Creek Felt Boots

Rods:

9 4wt. 4pc. Sage Method

9 6wt. 4pc. Sage Approach

9 4wt. 4pc. Approach Outfit w/ Sage 2230 Reel

9 6wt. 4pc. Scott A4

9 6wt. 4pc. Redington Path (Past season model)

9 5wt. 4pc. Redington Path (Past season model)

Reels:

Ross Animas: 4/5, 5/6 (Past season model)

Ross Cimarron 2: 3/4, 4/5, 5/6

Ross Rapid 3/4

Fly Lines:

Rio Lines, Fresh and Salt (Past season models)

Scientific Anglers Sharkwave Textured

Scientific Anglers Wavelength Textured

Misc:

ArkAnglers L/S logo fishing shirts

Orvis Clearwater Vests (Past season model)

Select packs from Simms, Fishpond, and Patagonia (Past season models)

And MORE!

(Call for specific pricing and sizes.)

Salida Shop: 7500 W. Highway 50, 719-539-4223 / Open Monday-Saturday 8:30-5:30, Sunday 8:30-3:00.

Buena Vista Shop: 517 S. Highway 24, 719-395-1796 / Open Thursday-Saturday, 9:00-5:00.

Friday 2/15, 2019

Flow at Wellsville: 335 cfs

Water Temp.: High 30s

Clarity: Some ice flows on the coldest mornings. Clarity has been good upstream of Vallie Bridge, but below Coaldale, conditions are still poor following runoff from the Hayden Pass Fire burnscar. Considerable shelf ice in the lower basin in shaded regions.

(Scroll down for New Year Sale info)

Spring Rowing School: March 27-31

Spring 101 Fly Fishing Class Dates: March 23, April 13, April 27, May 11, June 1

Call 719-539-4223 or email [email protected] with questions or to make your reservation.

Friday Report - Braden Baker

Following increased project water releases from Twin Lakes to Pueblo Reservoir, we're now looking at flows around 335 cfs below Salida. This movement of water during the winter and spring is being made in an attempt to protect the fishery during the critical months of spring, when brown trout fry emerge from the redds, several key hatches occur, and our resident trout are able to feed in preparation for the high water season of summer. Rather than purge Twin Lakes and Turquoise Reservoir later in the spring to make room for incoming runoff and imported water, endangering that critical spring season with higher flows and over-stressing the fish, water managers move a small amount of water throughout the winter and spring to prepare for the eventual snowmelt. With target flows for the river during the spring being between 250-400 cfs (which is the ideal flow range for the health of the local brown trout population and coincidentally ideal for spring hatches of mayflies, caddis, etc.), the gradual release will help ensure that our brown trout fry are able to get safely established, that the critical spring hatches are successful and available to the fish, and that Arkansas River trout are in peak condition heading into the stresses of runoff and summer flows.

The high in Salida today should be around 46 degrees, and following several warmer days and nights is flowing slush-free this morning. We've had great reports from anglers the past couple of days, as the warmth has motivated fish into strong feeding activity. The best time of day to fish is generally 10am to 3pm, during the warmest and sunniest hours. Guide trips are reporting excellent mid-day fish feeding activity, primarily on midges, and great luck on larger attractors like stonefly nymphs. This is the time of year when we begin to encounter molting stonefly nymphs vulnerable in the river, so stonefly nymph patterns become true forage options rather than mere attractors. We've also had scattered reports of good success on flies imitating both caddis larva and immature baetis nymphs. This would indicate that the spring behavioral drifts of these insect varieties are underway, and these fly imitations will be increasingly effective as we move towards the hatches of spring.

Fish are congregated together in some of the deeper runs and pools typical of winter. However, on warmer days fish will move into the shallows to feed on daily insect drifts. Depth is critical during these months, so cover water thoroughly by adjusting weight and depth. A slow, methodical approach can pay big dividends.

FYI Salida East is no longer a free access point! Prepare for day fees as you would the other recreation area sites.

Salida New Year Sale Items at 15-50% off (Discontinued or previous years models):

Waders:

Freestone Z Wader

Freestone Stockingfoot Wader

Freestone Pant Wader

Boots:

Freestone Felt and Vibram Boots

Vaportread Rubber Boots

Rock Creek Felt Boots

Rods:

9 4wt. 4pc. Sage Method

9 6wt. 4pc. Sage Approach

9 4wt. 4pc. Approach Outfit w/ Sage 2230 Reel

9 6wt. 4pc. Scott A4

9 6wt. 4pc. Redington Path (Past season model)

9 5wt. 4pc. Redington Path (Past season model)

Reels:

Ross Animas: 4/5, 5/6 (Past season model)

Ross Cimarron 2: 3/4, 4/5, 5/6

Ross Rapid 3/4

Fly Lines:

Rio Lines, Fresh and Salt (Past season models)

Scientific Anglers Sharkwave Textured

Scientific Anglers Wavelength Textured

Misc:

ArkAnglers L/S logo fishing shirts

Orvis Clearwater Vests (Past season model)

Select packs from Simms, Fishpond, and Patagonia (Past season models)

And MORE!

(Call for specific pricing and sizes.)

Salida Shop: 7500 W. Highway 50, 719-539-4223 / Open Monday-Saturday 8:30-5:30, Sunday 8:30-3:00.

Buena Vista Shop: 517 S. Highway 24, 719-395-1796 / Open Thursday-Saturday, 9:00-5:00.

Wednesday 2/13, 2019

Flow at Wellsville: ~300 cfs

Water Temp.: High 30s

Clarity: Some ice flows on the coldest mornings. Clarity has been good upstream of Vallie Bridge, but below Coaldale, conditions are still poor following runoff from the Hayden Pass Fire burnscar. Considerable shelf ice in the lower basin in shaded regions.

(Scroll down for New Year Sale info)

Spring Rowing School: March 27-31

Spring 101 Fly Fishing Class Dates: March 23, April 13, April 27, May 11, June 1

Call 719-539-4223 or email [email protected] with questions or to make your reservation.

Tuesday Report - Braden Baker

Following increased project water releases from Twin Lakes to Pueblo Reservoir, we're now looking at flows around 300 cfs below Salida. This movement of water during the winter and spring is being made in an attempt to protect the fishery during the critical months of spring, when brown trout fry emerge from the redds, several key hatches occur, and our resident trout are able to feed in preparation for the high water season of summer. Rather than purge Twin Lakes and Turquoise Reservoir later in the spring to make room for incoming runoff and imported water, endangering that critical spring season with higher flows and over-stressing the fish, water managers move a small amount of water throughout the winter and spring to prepare for the eventual snowmelt. With target flows for the river during the spring being between 250-400 cfs (which is the ideal flow range for the health of the local brown trout population and coincidentally ideal for spring hatches of mayflies, caddis, etc.), the gradual release will help ensure that our brown trout fry are able to get safely established, that the critical spring hatches are successful and available to the fish, and that Arkansas River trout are in peak condition heading into the stresses of runoff and summer flows.

The high in Salida today should be around 43 degrees, and we'll be seeing daytime temperatures in the 40s the rest of the week. These are great conditions for winter fishing on the Arkansas.

The best hours of the day are generally 10am to 3pm, at the warmest time of day. Guide trips are reporting excellent mid-day fish feeding activity, primarily on midges, and great luck on larger attractors like stonefly nymphs. This is the time of year when we begin to encounter molting stonefly nymphs vulnerable in the river, so stonefly nymph patterns become true forage options rather than mere attractors.

Fish are congregated together in some of the deeper runs and pools typical of winter. However, on warmer days fish will move into the shallows to feed on daily insect drifts. Depth is critical during these months, so cover water thoroughly by adjusting weight and depth. A slow, methodical approach can pay big dividends.

FYI Salida East is no longer a free access point! Prepare for day fees as you would the other recreation area sites.

Salida New Year Sale Items at 15-50% off (Discontinued or previous years models):

Waders:

Freestone Z Wader

Freestone Stockingfoot Wader

Freestone Pant Wader

Boots:

Freestone Felt and Vibram Boots

Vaportread Rubber Boots

Rock Creek Felt Boots

Rods:

9 4wt. 4pc. Sage Method

9 6wt. 4pc. Sage Approach

9 4wt. 4pc. Approach Outfit w/ Sage 2230 Reel

9 6wt. 4pc. Scott A4

9 6wt. 4pc. Redington Path (Past season model)

9 5wt. 4pc. Redington Path (Past season model)

Reels:

Ross Animas: 4/5, 5/6 (Past season model)

Ross Cimarron 2: 3/4, 4/5, 5/6

Ross Rapid 3/4

Fly Lines:

Rio Lines, Fresh and Salt (Past season models)

Scientific Anglers Sharkwave Textured

Scientific Anglers Wavelength Textured

Misc:

ArkAnglers L/S logo fishing shirts

Orvis Clearwater Vests (Past season model)

Select packs from Simms, Fishpond, and Patagonia (Past season models)

And MORE!

(Call for specific pricing and sizes.)

Salida Shop: 7500 W. Highway 50, 719-539-4223 / Open Monday-Saturday 8:30-5:30, Sunday 8:30-3:00.

Buena Vista Shop: 517 S. Highway 24, 719-395-1796 / Open Thursday-Saturday, 9:00-5:00.

Tuesday 2/12, 2019

Flow at Wellsville: ~300 cfs

Water Temp.: High 30s

Clarity: Some ice flows on the coldest mornings. Clarity has been good upstream of Vallie Bridge, but below Coaldale, conditions are still poor following runoff from the Hayden Pass Fire burnscar. Considerable shelf ice in the lower basin in shaded regions.

(Scroll down for New Year Sale info)

Spring Rowing School: March 27-31

Spring 101 Fly Fishing Class Dates: March 23, April 13, April 27, May 11, June 1

Call 719-539-4223 or email [email protected] with questions or to make your reservation.

Tuesday Report - Braden Baker

Following increased project water releases from Twin Lakes to Pueblo Reservoir, we're now looking at flows around 300 cfs below Salida. This movement of water during the winter and spring is being made in an attempt to protect the fishery during the critical months of spring, when several key hatches occur and our resident trout are able to feed in preparation for the high water season of summer. Rather than purge Twin Lakes later in the spring to make room for incoming runoff, endangering that critical hatch season with higher flows and over-stressing the fish, water managers move a small amount of water throughout the winter and spring to prepare for the eventual snowmelt. With target flows for the river during the spring being between 200-400 cfs (which is the ideal flow range for the health of the local brown trout population and coincidentally ideal for spring hatches of mayflies, caddis, etc.), the gradual release will help ensure that our paramount spring hatches occur and that Arkansas River trout are in peak condition heading into the stresses of runoff and summer flows.

The high in Salida today should be around 43 degrees, and we'll be seeing daytime temperatures in the 40s the rest of the week. These are great conditions for winter fishing on the Arkansas.

The best hours of the day are generally 10am to 3pm, at the warmest time of day. Guide trips are reporting excellent mid-day fish feeding activity, primarily on midges, and great luck on larger attractors like stonefly nymphs. This is the time of year when we begin to encounter molting stonefly nymphs vulnerable in the river, so stonefly nymph patterns become true forage options rather than mere attractors.

Fish are congregated together in some of the deeper runs and pools typical of winter. However, on warmer days fish will move into the shallows to feed on daily insect drifts. Depth is critical during these months, so cover water thoroughly by adjusting weight and depth. A slow, methodical approach can pay big dividends.

FYI Salida East is no longer a free access point! Prepare for day fees as you would the other recreation area sites.

Salida New Year Sale Items at 15-50% off (Discontinued or previous years models):

Waders:

Freestone Z Wader

Freestone Stockingfoot Wader

Freestone Pant Wader

Boots:

Freestone Felt and Vibram Boots

Vaportread Rubber Boots

Rock Creek Felt Boots

Rods:

9 4wt. 4pc. Sage Method

9 6wt. 4pc. Sage Approach

9 4wt. 4pc. Approach Outfit w/ Sage 2230 Reel

9 6wt. 4pc. Scott A4

9 6wt. 4pc. Redington Path (Past season model)

9 5wt. 4pc. Redington Path (Past season model)

Reels:

Ross Animas: 4/5, 5/6 (Past season model)

Ross Cimarron 2: 3/4, 4/5, 5/6

Ross Rapid 3/4

Fly Lines:

Rio Lines, Fresh and Salt (Past season models)

Scientific Anglers Sharkwave Textured

Scientific Anglers Wavelength Textured

Misc:

ArkAnglers L/S logo fishing shirts

Orvis Clearwater Vests (Past season model)

Select packs from Simms, Fishpond, and Patagonia (Past season models)

And MORE!

(Call for specific pricing and sizes.)

Salida Shop: 7500 W. Highway 50, 719-539-4223 / Open Monday-Saturday 8:30-5:30, Sunday 8:30-3:00.

Buena Vista Shop: 517 S. Highway 24, 719-395-1796 / Open Thursday-Saturday, 9:00-5:00.

Monday 2/11, 2019

Flow at Wellsville: 308 cfs

Water Temp.: 30s

Clarity: Some ice flows on the coldest mornings. Clarity has been good upstream of Vallie Bridge, but below Coaldale, conditions are still poor following runoff from the Hayden Pass Fire burnscar. Considerable shelf ice in the lower basin in shaded regions.

(Scroll down for New Year Sale info)

Spring Rowing School: March 27-31

Spring 101 Fly Fishing Class Dates: March 23, April 13, April 27, May 11, June 1

Call 719-539-4223 or email [email protected] with questions or to make your reservation.

Monday Report - Braden Baker

Following increased project water releases from Twin Lakes to Pueblo Reservoir, we're now looking at flows just above 300 cfs around Salida. The high in Salida today should be around 36 degrees, and we'll be seeing daytime temperatures in the 40s the rest of the week. These are great conditions for winter fishing on the Arkansas.

The best hours of the day are generally 10am to 3pm, at the warmest time of day. Guide trips are reporting excellent mid-day fish feeding activity, primarily on midges, and great luck on larger attractors like stonefly nymphs. This is the time of year when we begin to encounter molting stonefly nymphs vulnerable in the river, so stonefly nymph patterns become true forage options rather than mere attractors.

Fish are congregated together in some of the deeper runs and pools typical of winter. However, on warmer days fish will move into the shallows to feed on daily insect drifts. Depth is critical during these months, so cover water thoroughly by adjusting weight and depth. A slow, methodical approach can pay big dividends.

FYI Salida East is no longer a free access point! Prepare for day fees as you would the other recreation area sites.

Salida New Year Sale Items at 15-50% off (Discontinued or previous years models):

Waders:

Freestone Z Wader

Freestone Stockingfoot Wader

Freestone Pant Wader

Boots:

Freestone Felt and Vibram Boots

Vaportread Rubber Boots

Rock Creek Felt Boots

Rods:

9 4wt. 4pc. Sage Method

9 6wt. 4pc. Sage Approach

9 4wt. 4pc. Approach Outfit w/ Sage 2230 Reel

9 6wt. 4pc. Scott A4

9 6wt. 4pc. Redington Path (Past season model)

9 5wt. 4pc. Redington Path (Past season model)

Reels:

Ross Animas: 4/5, 5/6 (Past season model)

Ross Cimarron 2: 3/4, 4/5, 5/6

Ross Rapid 3/4

Fly Lines:

Rio Lines, Fresh and Salt (Past season models)

Scientific Anglers Sharkwave Textured

Scientific Anglers Wavelength Textured

Misc:

ArkAnglers L/S logo fishing shirts

Orvis Clearwater Vests (Past season model)

Select packs from Simms, Fishpond, and Patagonia (Past season models)

And MORE!

(Call for specific pricing and sizes.)

Salida Shop: 7500 W. Highway 50, 719-539-4223 / Open Monday-Saturday 8:30-5:30, Sunday 8:30-3:00.

Buena Vista Shop: 517 S. Highway 24, 719-395-1796 / Open Thursday-Saturday, 9:00-5:00.

General Overview

Its been a cold few days, with negatives in Canon City the last few evenings. However, we'll have a good warm up this weekend through next week, so we should see some productive fishing...and the stonefly molt isn't far away! It will be best to focus your efforts in Canon City or Upper Bighorn Canyon until late February, as there is considerable shelf ice in the lower canyon.

Water temps have been fluctuating with cooler weather, which will affect the fishing dramatically. Its best to focus on warm days that are preceded by a warm overnight low. In addition focus your efforts between the hours of 11AM and 3PM.

Call Us Toll Free (888) 994-6743 for up to the minute reports or if you have any questions about the other countless fly fishing opportunities in our area.

For guided trips on the Arkansas, other drainages and our private ranches..... Call Us Toll Free (888) 994-6743 or CLICK HERE for more information.

Stream Conditions

Wellsville Flowrate: 210 CFS

Canon City Flowrate: 243 CFS

Clarity: Clear (On Warm Days some Shelf Ice Melt will stain the water from Texas Creek Downstream)

The VFMP (Voluntary Flow Management Program) is finished for the year and flows are now at close to native on the Arkansas Freestone. Clarity has been very good, while flows are lower than average and closer to our early Springtime levels.

Suggested Methods

We've entered the Winter season on the Arkansas River Basin. While there will be some cold, less opportune days to be on the river...remember, that the Lower Basin is in the Banana Belt of Colorado and receives much warmer weather than much of the state. Watch the weather and look for days in the 40's and 50's with overnight lows around 30 degrees...those will be the days when you can expect fair productivity. On the bug scene, much of what we focus on is in the Midge lifecycle along with our standard staples of Stoneflies, Caddis Larva and BWO nymphs. Focus your efforts on the substrate in deeper tail-outs.