7/21/26 fishing report

Where to fish?

We are seeing fluctuations in flows, therefore stay tuned to the USGS discharge sites. We are still in low water and would strongly suggest not to float fish anywhere on the Upper Rio Grande. Currently, the Rio Grande at thirty-mile is at 79.3cfs, at Wagon Wheel Gap its 171cfs, and in Del Norte it’s at 199cfs. The monsoon season has finally shown up and we have been receiving moisture here and there. However, it has not been a substantial amount. We are thankful for every drop, to say the least. Fishing right now is still from 6am to 12pm on the big river. Be diligent, bring a thermometer, once the water hits 68 degrees immediately stop fishing. We would recommend fishing the collar sections in between south fork and Creede. Creek ideas include West Willow Creek, North Clear Creek, Squaw Creek, and Beaver Creek. Still water ideas Continental Res, Rio Grande Res, Beaver Res, and Spring Creek Res.       

Guide insight: For the big river dry dropper fishing. Fish a hopper on top as the ecosystem is already showing us that terrestrials are out in abundance. Also, we believe there are little stones hatching late in the night(lots of shucks are present early in the morning). Fish riffles, shelfs, color changes, and swift water that is about 2-3ft in depth. Light tippet and watch your shadow as those fish are very spooky due to the minimal water flow. Play around with different color hoppers, as we have been catching a lot of fish on top. The dropper will be a small perdigon or bullet quill. Lakes: Damsel flies are out in abundance(dry fly fishing) and balanced leeches(fishing deep). Creeks fish simple, Parachute Adams, just size it right!         

What time to fish?

From sun up till about 12pm for the river. Lakes and some creeks are all day options(consult the fly shop and we will direct you).      

 What to use? 

The fishing right now is actually pretty fair if you are on the right program. Please come into the shop and we will get you set up with the right gear. In Creede as a fly shop we have a 6 month season to make money, so please come into the shop to grab bugs. We have over 285 patterns present and are always stocked for our clientele. Please shop locally. Our reports are insanely broad for a reason. We are old school and would like to see everyone in person. Come into the shop and we can dial you guys in, we have guides and anglers fishing everyday for a 6 month season. We will give you the secrets in person.