RIVER REPORT
Arkansas River | Below Pueblo Reservoir
The Arkansas River below Pueblo Reservoir in Colorado is a popular spot for fishing and recreation, offering clear, tailwater conditions ideal for catching trout. The river flows through scenic landscapes, providing opportunities for both anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy its beauty and abundant wildlife.
CONDITIONS
Weather & Flow Data Reported From OpenWeather and USGS
Recent Reports
Arkansas River @ Pueblo Reservoir – April Fly Fishing Report: As of early April, the Arkansas River tailwater below Pueblo Reservoir is experiencing increased flows, with current levels around 598 cubic feet per second (cfs) due to recent water releases aimed at managing reservoir levels ahead of spring runoff. These elevated flows have expanded fishable areas and improved trout activity. Anglers are observing consistent midday hatches of midges and blue-winged olives (BWOs), leading to productive nymphing and occasional dry fly opportunities. Effective nymph patterns include Zebra Midges, RS2s, and Pheasant Tails in sizes 18–22. Additionally, streamer fishing has shown promise later in the day, particularly with patterns like Woolly Buggers and Sculpin imitations. With rainbow trout actively spawning, it’s crucial to avoid disturbing fish on redds and to tread carefully to protect this vital process. The fishing has been most productive between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Overall, the tailwater section near Pueblo Reservoir offers promising opportunities for anglers this April
Water Flow Data
5 Day Outlook
BUGS
The Arkansas River’s insect life provides a smorgasbord for hungry trout. AvidMax recommends these key fly patterns:
THE FISHERY
The Arkansas River below Pueblo Reservoir offers year-round fishing opportunities with its consistent tailwater flows, making it a prime destination for anglers seeking productive waters in all seasons.
Fish Species
The Arkansas River below Pueblo Reservoir is home to a healthy population of rainbow and brown trout, with some fish reaching trophy sizes. The tailwater environment provides ideal year-round fishing opportunities, with consistent water temperatures and flows that keep the trout active, even during the winter months.
Unique Fishing Conditions
This stretch is known for its technical fly fishing due to clear water and the need for delicate presentations. Nymphing with small midges and blue-winged olive patterns (sizes 18-22) is particularly effective, especially during fall and winter months. The river also has productive dry fly action during caddis and mayfly hatches in spring and summer.
Access and Regulations
There are multiple access points along the river, with Pueblo City Park being a popular starting point. The river is managed as a tailwater fishery, so anglers should be mindful of fluctuating flows from the dam. Fly anglers are encouraged to practice catch-and-release, particularly for large browns and rainbows, and to check local regulations for specific gear and seasonal restrictions.
TACTICS
AvidMax encourages anglers to explore their full repertoire on the Arkansas:
Nymphing
Nymphing allows anglers to target trout feeding below the surface, with or without an indicator, making it an effective technique for covering deep runs and slow pools where fish are actively feeding on subsurface insects.
Dry Fly Fishing
Fishing with dry flies provides the ultimate surface experience, imitating adult insects and offering exciting visual strikes, particularly during hatches when trout are feeding on the water’s surface.
Streamer Fishing
Using streamers mimics baitfish and other larger prey, offering an aggressive approach that can entice bigger, predatory trout, especially when fishing deeper water or fast-moving currents.
SEASONS
Each season on the Arkansas brings unique joys and challenges for AvidMax anglers:
Spring
Spring tailwater releases create steady flows, making nymphing with stonefly and baetis patterns productive. Focus on seams and deeper pools where trout hold during runoff.
Summer
Summer offers great dry fly action with caddis, PMDs, and terrestrials like hoppers. Early morning and late evening are prime times for dry fly fishing, especially in riffles and near structure.
Fall
Fall is prime for targeting large brown trout as they prepare to spawn, with streamers and egg patterns being highly effective. Focus on deeper runs and near structure where trout hold as they become more aggressive.
Winter
Winter fishing can be productive due to consistent tailwater flows, with midge and baetis nymphs being effective in slower, deeper water. Fish during midday when temperatures are warmer and trout are more likely to feed.
REMEMBER
The Arkansas River below Pueblo Reservoir is a year-round tailwater fishery that offers excellent fishing opportunities, particularly during the winter months when water conditions remain stable. The river’s health depends on anglers respecting local regulations and using best practices to preserve this thriving fishery.
Water Conditions
Tailwater releases provide consistent flows, but it’s crucial to check daily water levels, especially during spring and summer when releases can fluctuate, affecting both fishing conditions and wading safety.
Regulations
This section of the river has designated catch-and-release areas with artificial flies and lures only. Make sure you’re familiar with these regulations to protect the quality of the fishery.
Safety
While the river generally has manageable flows, the deeper pools and slick riverbeds can still pose a risk. Use caution when wading and always wear proper wading gear for added stability.
COMMENTS
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