May 16, 2025

Where to fish: 

Currently our flows from top to bottom on the main stem of the Rio Grande are, 636 cfs out of Thirty Mile, 1280 cfs at Wagon Wheel Gap, and 1880 cfs near Del Norte. We are currently on a drop as the past two days we saw water releases out of the Rio Grande Reservoir and out of Continental Reservoir. For our walk wade fisherman I would recommend fishing the deep creek easement located downstream from the deep creek bridge and Marshal park CG(please call the shop for directions). Wade fisherman our creeks are running high currently, however most creeks that are higher up elevation wise, greater than 9,200ft are clear. We have heard some spectacular reports on pole creek, west willow creek, and south clear creek. 

Float fisherman, the whole Rio Grande river is currently floatable. We have noticed better fishing down low and that is most likely due to water temperatures rising. By about noon we have seen temps reach 45 degrees fahrenheit on our calmer float sections. An ideal float right now would be lower collar wildlife area to CR.19. Be careful, as this week we are expecting some crazy wind blowing from the north east. Please be safe, respect private property, and due your due diligence before launching your boat. 

What to fish: 

Streamers: black & sunrise Sculpzillas sz. 4, black & olive Muddler Minnows sz.6 and  Agent Scully sz. 4 

Nymphs: runoff stoneflies Sz. 10-14, Red copper John Sz.14, grannom caddis Sz. 16, flashback PT sz. 14 and euro trash(think pink beaded flys).

Dry flies: grey & yellow elk hair caddis sz. 14, foam caddis size 14, tilt wing BWO Sz.18,  match hatcher(Umpqua) sz. 16, and parachute Adams sz.18 

How to fish: Currently, the fish are primarily on the banks due to seeing heavy flows the past few days. Look for soft water, minimal boils, inside seams, and fish it systematically. Start tight to the bank then every cast work your way out to the mainstream(if wade fishing). In a boat, cover everything from the bank to 10ft toward the main channel. Some fish are stacking on island points and runs. If it continues to drop, the fish will start to use the whole river again. This could happen real soon(please call the shop for any advice). As always guys, this advice will give you a good idea of what’s going on. You guys please stop in the shop for up to date, flies and advice. As reports can change daily.   

What time to fish: No need to be out there too early. We would recommend fishing from 9am-4pm.

****Shop will be back to normal hours starting memorial day weekend.****