THE MASTER’S GUIDE TO THE UPPER COLORADO RIVER

The Upper Colorado is not one river. It is a journey through changing elevations, landscapes, currents, hatches, and fisheries—and every reach asks something different of the fly fisher.

Beginning among the cold headwaters of Rocky Mountain National Park and following the river downstream through Grand County, Granby, Kremmling, Gore Canyon, Pumphouse, Radium, State Bridge, and finally Dotsero, this guide helps you understand the water before you ever make your first cast.

Bill Perry and Daniel Bryant combine firsthand experience with carefully researched information to create a practical companion for visitors, beginning fly fishers, and experienced Colorado river travelers alike.

Inside, you will discover:

The Upper Colorado River, explained reach by reachPublic fishing access from Rocky Mountain National Park to DotseroSeasonal conditions, changing flows, and fishing strategiesMajor insects, important hatches, and recommended fly patternsTributaries, creeks, alpine lakes, and reservoirsWade-fishing and floating opportunitiesFloat sections from Pumphouse downstream, including access points and river considerationsEquipment, rigging, presentations, and proven techniquesRainbow, brown, brook, and cutthroat trout identificationCurrent regulations, responsible fishing practices, and river stewardshipFly shops, professional guides, lodging, campgrounds, restaurants, and other helpful local resourcesThe guide also works alongside three companion mobile fishing maps: the Rocky Mountain National Park Fishing Map, the Blue River Fishing Map covering Granby to Kremmling, and the Colorado River Fishing Map covering Kremmling to Dotsero. Available separately, these georeferenced maps work in the free Avenza Maps app and help fly fishers understand their location, nearby waters, roads, and mapped access information while traveling.

Whether you are planning your first Upper Colorado adventure or have fished the river for years, this book will help you approach it with greater knowledge, confidence, and respect.

The river changes with every mile. This guide will help you change with it.