Don't Let the Weather Limit Your Catch

Colorado is known for its excellent trout fishing—in fact, we’ve been ranked as the best fly fishing in North America by Field and Stream. Even so, the warm, dry conditions throughout Colorado this year have resulted in many rivers and creeks experiencing lower flow and higher water temperatures. What does this mean for Colorado’s legendary trout fishing? Right now, it means that anglers need to be smarter and more persistent to make the perfect catch.

###Mind the Temperature

Trout prefer lower water temperatures, typically below 68 degrees, and will remain inactive if the water temperature goes much above that. As you know, active fish are biting fish, so keep water temperature in mind when heading out to the river.

Try fishing in the morning, when lower overnight temperatures have cooled the water and look for a moving current, which will be cooler than still water. Trout are at their most vulnerable in water above 70 degrees, so if you’re catching and releasing, make sure you land your fish as quickly as possible and waste no time returning them to the water.

###Choose the Right Fly

Across the state, anglers are seeing success with two particular baits—nymphs and emergers. Take advantage of the knowledge of others’ success and include them in your tackle box on your next fishing expedition.

####Nymphs

Try using a variety of nymphs, and make sure you take extra, as it is not unusual to lose some during each fishing trip. Fishing in slightly off-color water? Try using a worm pattern. A prince nymph is highly contrasting and is well known to be one of the most productive patterns available. The Super Pupa caddis is a great choice if you’re in unfamiliar waters and don’t know what to fish, as caddis are found in nearly all trout streams.

####Emergers

Ready to try using an emerger? Flat, still water will be your best friend, as this is where you’re almost certain to find emerging insects naturally. When using an emerger, the colder the water, the better—this is what creates the surface tension that keeps emergers at the mercy of trout—meaning that trout will be more likely to bite.

###Stay Persistent

Remember, just because the weather is warm and dry doesn’t mean you can’t snag the perfect catch. Stay smart, keep trying, and you’ll see success. If you’re ready to step out of the house, and right onto the stream, check out our Colorado fishing land for sale here.