Where To Go?

Now that summer temperatures have settled in Northern Colorado, many anglers immediately think about either packing up their gear, or heading to the closest tailwater. While those are certainly great options, some of the best fishing of the season can often be found tucked away in the countless small creeks flowing through our mountains. Hungry fish, cold water, and miles of water without another angler in sight. Some options to think about here in Northern Colorado...

Rocky Mountain National Park:
Towering peaks, crystal clear water, and wild trout make Rocky Mountain National Park one of the premier destinations for creek fishing in Colorado. With countless miles of cold, high elevation water to explore, every drainage offers a unique adventure and the chance to discover eager native and wild trout in spectacular scenery.

Option A: Upper Big Thompson

Option B: Wild Basin

Option C: Cache La Poudre Creek

Hwy 14 Cooridor (Poudre River Canyon):

Following the Cache la Poudre River west from Fort Collins, the Highway 14 corridor is home to an incredible network of tributary creeks that are often overlooked by anglers. These smaller waters provide easy access, healthy cold water, and the opportunity to escape the crowds while exploring hidden pockets full of wild trout.

Option A: Big South

Option B: Fish Creek

Option C: Trap Creek

Snowy Range Mountains:

Just across the Wyoming border, the Snowy Range offers a rugged landscape filled with alpine meadows, winding mountain creeks, and eager trout. It's the perfect destination for anglers looking to combine scenic hikes with intimate creek fishing in a region that rewards those willing to explore beyond the roadside.

Option A: North Fork of Little Laramie

Option B: Libby Creek

Option C: South French Creek

These smaller fisheries begin at higher elevations where cold water, healthy oxygen levels, and abundant insect life create ideal conditions for trout throughout the summer. Whether you're exploring a tiny blue line you've never fished before or hiking into a favorite stretch you've visited for years, creek fishing offers a refreshing change of pace and an incredible opportunity to experience Colorado's wild trout. Need some flies to bring with you? Check out the Creek Fly Assortment below.

One of the best parts about fishing small creeks is that it doesn't have to be complicated. A shorter 2 to 4 weight rod paired with a floating fly line is perfect for navigating tight casting lanes and making accurate presentations. One of the shops favorite rods for creek fishing is the Scott F-Series Fiberglass rod. A playful stick that still has the backbone that allows you to feel every bit of the cast. If your looking for a compact backcountry fly rod, look no further than the F-Series 7'3" 3wt 5pc. The tube itself is only 18" Long!