Exploring Fly Fishing in Fort Collins: Top Spots and
Local Expertise from St. Peter's Fly Shop

Fort Collins, Colorado, is a paradise for fly fishing
enthusiasts. Nestled at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, this vibrant city
offers easy access to a variety of world-class fishing destinations. Whether
you're a seasoned angler or a newcomer to the sport, Fort Collins delivers
unmatched opportunities to cast a fly in pristine waters. One of the best ways
to get started or take your skills to the next level is through the guidance
and resources of St. Peter's Fly Shop, the city's iconic outfitter and
fly fishing hub.

Since 1992, St. Peter's Fly Shop has been a cornerstone of
the Fort Collins fly fishing community. With a location in Old Town and South
Fort Collins, the shop offers a full range of gear, guided trips, classes, and
local insight. The staff are experienced anglers who know the local waters
intimately and are passionate about sharing their knowledge.

Top Fly Fishing Destinations Around Fort Collins

1. Cache la Poudre River

The Cache la Poudre, Colorado's only designated Wild and
Scenic River, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Its freestone
waters provide excellent dry fly fishing from spring through fall. Wild brown
and rainbow trout thrive here, particularly in the canyon stretch west of Fort
Collins.

2. Big Thompson River

Flowing from Estes Park through the Big Thompson Canyon,
this river is known for its consistent flows and clear water. Access points
along Highway 34 make it an ideal destination for a quick day trip. The Big T
is home to a healthy population of browns and rainbows, especially in the
tailwater section below Lake Estes.

3. Rocky Mountain National Park

RMNP offers alpine fly fishing in an awe-inspiring setting.
Dozens of high-mountain lakes and streams are accessible via hiking trails,
with native greenback cutthroat trout as the crown jewel for anglers. It's a
perfect escape for those seeking solitude and stunning scenery.

4. Red Feather Lakes

This cluster of lakes northwest of Fort Collins offers great
stillwater opportunities. Bellaire Lake, Dowdy Lake, West Lake and Parvin Lake
are well-stocked and support rainbow, brown, and brook trout. Belly boats and
float tubes can be useful for reaching fish in deeper areas.

5. Long Draw Reservoir

Situated near the headwaters of the Poudre River, Long Draw
is a high-elevation reservoir that fishes well in the summer months. It's a
great location for targeting brook trout and cutthroat in a beautiful, remote
setting.

6. Joe Wright Reservoir

Located just off Highway 14, Joe Wright is a
unique fishery known for its Arctic grayling, as well as cutthroat trout. It
can be windy, but the chance to catch grayling on a dry fly is worth the
effort.

7. Horsetooth Reservoir

Primarily known for warmwater species like smallmouth bass,
walleye, and even carp, Horsetooth offers a different kind of fly-fishing
experience. Early mornings and evenings are best, especially along rocky
shorelines.

8. The Big South

This lesser-known stretch of the upper Poudre River offers
technical fishing and breathtaking beauty. It requires a bit of a hike, but
anglers are rewarded with wild trout and minimal crowds.

9. North Park/Walden

A bit farther afield, North Park and the town of Walden are
surrounded by gold medal waters, including the North Platte River and several
productive lakes such as The Delaney’s and Lake John. The area is well worth a
weekend trip for anglers looking to explore new territory.

10. Fort Collins Natural Area Ponds

Fort Collins offers an abundance of warmwater fishing opportunities. A variety of small ponds—such as Riverpond Ponds, Shields Street Ponds, and Dixon Reservoir—provide plenty of spots to explore. These waters are plentiful with bass, panfish, carp, and even some trout that are stocked in Spring. With so many nearby options, fun fishing is always just minutes from your door.

With its abundance of fishing options and strong local
support through shops like St. Peter's Fly Shop, Fort Collins is truly a fly
fishing haven. Whether you're chasing trout in a clear mountain stream or
casting to bass in a warmwater reservoir, there's something here for every
angler. Be sure to stop by St. Peter's for gear, advice, and trip planning
before heading out on your next adventure.

*A deposit is required for booking.  All deposits are refundable, minus the 5% cancellation fee, up to 30 days prior to your trip.  All cancellations within 30 days of trip are subject to forfeiture of deposit. Health and medical issues do not change the cancellation policy. If you have any concern about the need to cancel, we recommend you purchase trip insurance to cover costs.*