Estes Park Fly Fishing Report – April 2025

Fly fishing in Estes Park on the Big Thompson River – April 2025

Estes Park Fly Fishing Report – April 2025

Spring is waking up in the Rockies, and that means the fishing is starting to heat up! While some high-elevation lakes and streams are still locked up with ice, the lower elevations—especially around Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park—are starting to fish well. Water temperatures are rising, bugs are becoming more active, and the trout are hungry. Here’s what you need to know before heading out.

Big Thompson River

Current Conditions: Flows are still on the low side, around 16 cfs, but clarity is excellent. As the days warm up, fish are becoming more active, especially during the late morning and early afternoon.

What’s Working:

• Dry Flies: Mole Flies, Small Parachute Adams

• Nymphs: Soft Hackle Sow Bugs, Perdigons, CDC Pheasant Tails, Radiation Baetis

• Tippet: 5x or 6x

Tips: With the clear water, a stealthy approach is key—stay low and make long, delicate casts. Focus on deeper pools and slower runs where trout are holding. Midday tends to be the most productive time as the water warms up.

Lake Estes

Current Conditions: Ice is retreating, and open water is increasing, especially near the power plant outlet and inlet areas. Water temperatures are still chilly, but trout are becoming more active.

What’s Working:

• Spinners & Spoons: Kastmasters, Mepps, Panther Martins (silver and gold)

• Bait: Nightcrawlers, salmon eggs, chartreuse or orange PowerBait

• Fly Fishing: Midges and leech patterns under an indicator

Tips: Focus on areas where the ice is receding—these spots warm up faster and attract feeding trout. Keep retrieves slow, and if you’re using bait, let it sit rather than constantly moving it.

Rocky Mountain National Park Streams

Current Conditions: Lower elevation streams like the Big Thompson through Moraine Park and Fall River are opening up, but expect some snow and ice along the banks. Higher elevations are still mostly frozen.

What’s Working:

• Dry Flies: Small Adams, Parachute Adams, Sparkle Dun, Chubby Chernobyls, Ants, Beetle Patterns

• Nymphs: Squirmy Worms, Zebra Midges, Pheasant Tails, Radiation Baetis

Tips: These fish are spooky, especially in the crystal-clear water. Move slow, wear natural colors, and make your first cast count. Mid-morning to early afternoon is your best window for success.

High Alpine Lakes

Current Conditions: Most are still frozen, and full ice-off won’t happen until late May or June.

Tips: If you’re determined to try, focus on the edges of partially frozen lakes, especially near inlets and outlets. But for the best fishing, it’s worth waiting a few more weeks.

Final Thoughts

Spring fishing in Estes Park is all about timing and patience. The fish are there, and they’re getting hungrier by the day. Midday tends to be the most productive time right now as water temps rise. Keep your approach quiet, use lighter tippet, and be ready for anything—April weather in the Rockies can change fast!

Looking to make the most of your time on the water? Book a guided trip with Lost Outfitters, and let’s get you on some fish!