Big Thompson River Report
Current Streamflow : Gauge is Frozen @ Big T Above Lake Estes, 439 cfs @ Big T Below Lake Estes, 6 cfs @ Moraine Park
The Big Thompson has continued to fish well throughout the winter, and we are now seeing some change in water levels. We have heard reports that there is some water being moved between some reservoirs, including Lake Estes, so the flows below the dam will be fluctuating and quite high for the next week or two. Look for fish to be holding in the slower pockets out of the current as the water is still very cold. Midge patterns and small BWOs are both still great options right now, and don't be afraid to try a leech or larger attractor as a lead fly when nymphing. Some flies to tie behind a larger lead fly include a Poison Tung. #18-20, Bling Midge #20-22, and Sparkle Wing rs2 #18-22 have been effective. With the higher than normal flows right now, be sure to have enough weight on your rig to get down in the current. Let us know if you have any questions or looking for more info on fishing the Big Thompson!
Dries: Adams#18-24, Para Winger BWO #18-20, Rocky Mountain Mint #16-18, Tailing Midge #20, Griffith's Gnat #18-22, Erics Hi-Vis Midge #20-22, CDC Baetis Dun #20-22, Mole Fly Olive #20-22, Ext. Body Blue Winged Olive #18-22, Sprout Midge #20-22
Nymphs:: Copper John #18-22, Flashback Scud Olv. #14-16, Rs2 #18-22, Zebra Midge #20-24, Poison Tongue #18-20, Mercury Black Beauty #18-22, Soft egg Orange #12, Splitback Shady BWO#16-18, Two Bit Hooker #16-#18, Copper Rib RS2 #18-22, Flossy Worm #14-18, Pheasant Tail #18-22, Barr's Emerger BWO #18-22
Streamers:: Thin Mint #8-12, Beldar Bugger #8, Sparkle Minnow #8, Hot Head Leech #10, Black Wooly Bugger #10, Mini Peanut Envy, Cousin It Sculpin, Baby Swim Coach, Mini Peanut Envy #6.
We have a Staff Selection of flies for the Big Thompson for Purchase HERE
The 2022 season on the Big Thompson was an absolute blast! Give us a call at (970) 498-8968 to book your guided trip.
For info on guided trips on the Big Thompson, hit the LINK