RIVER REPORT
Big Thompson | Drake
The Big Thompson River near Drake, Colorado, flows through a rugged canyon, offering dramatic scenery and excellent opportunities for trout fishing. This stretch is known for its clear waters and is a favorite spot for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a scenic, tranquil environment.
CONDITIONS
Weather & Flow Data Reported From OpenWeather and USGS
Recent Reports
Big Thompson River near Drake – April Fly Fishing Report: As of early April, the Big Thompson River near Drake, Colorado, is experiencing typical spring conditions with low and clear flows. Anglers can anticipate hatches of midges and Blue-Winged Olives (BWOs) during warmer midday periods, providing opportunities for both nymphing and dry fly fishing. Effective nymph patterns include Pheasant Tails, Copper Johns, and RS2s in sizes 16–20. For dry fly enthusiasts, BWOs and midge patterns in sizes 18–22 can be productive during active hatches. Additionally, streamer fishing with patterns like Woolly Buggers and Sculpzillas can yield positive results, especially during overcast conditions. Employing light tippets (5x to 6x) and a stealthy approach is advisable due to the river’s clear water and wary trout. Focusing efforts during the warmest parts of the day, typically late morning to early afternoon, can enhance success rates. Overall, the Big Thompson River near Drake offers rewarding opportunities for anglers this April.
Water Flow Data
5 Day Outlook
BUGS
The Big Thompson’s insect life provides a smorgasbord for hungry trout. AvidMax recommends these key fly patterns:
THE FISHERY
The Big Thompson River at Drake provides anglers with a mix of pocket water and deeper pools, offering excellent opportunities to target trout in a beautiful canyon setting.
Fish Species
The Big Thompson River at Drake is home to a mix of brown and rainbow trout, with some fish reaching 10-16 inches. Browns are the dominant species in this section, especially in deeper pools and undercut banks, and anglers can occasionally find larger trout lurking in the pocket water and runs.
Unique Fishing Conditions
This section of the Big Thompson is characterized by narrow channels, riffles, and pocket water, offering excellent opportunities for dry fly fishing and nymphing. Seasonal conditions play a big role, with runoff in spring leading to higher flows, while late summer and fall provide more consistent, clear water. In the fall, blue-winged olive and midge patterns (sizes 18-22) are effective, while in summer, terrestrial patterns like hoppers, ants, and beetles work well.
Access and Regulations
Access is plentiful along U.S. Highway 34, which follows the river closely through Drake. This stretch of the river sees less pressure compared to sections closer to Estes Park, making it a great spot for anglers seeking solitude. There are no special regulations in this section, but practicing catch-and-release is recommended to maintain the quality of the fishery. Anglers should also be aware of fluctuating flows due to dam releases from Lake Estes upstream, which can impact fishing conditions.
TACTICS
AvidMax encourages anglers to explore their full repertoire on the Big Thompson:
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 Big Thompson brings unique joys and challenges for AvidMax anglers:
Spring
Spring runoff can create higher flows, but fishing along the edges and in slower pools with stonefly and baetis nymphs is effective. Target areas where trout find refuge from the faster currents.
Summer
Summer provides great dry fly action with hatches of caddis, PMDs, and terrestrials like ants and hoppers. Early mornings and late evenings offer the best opportunities for dry fly fishing, especially in riffles and pocket water.
Fall
Fall is an excellent time to target brown trout as they prepare to spawn, with streamers and egg patterns being highly effective. Focus on deeper pools and runs where larger trout are more likely to hold.
Winter
Winter fishing is slower, but small midge and baetis nymphs can still be productive in deep, slow-moving water. Fish during the warmest part of the day to find more active trout.
REMEMBER
The Big Thompson River at Drake offers a beautiful canyon setting with diverse water conditions, from pocket water to deeper pools. However, the river’s recovery from past floods means it’s especially important to practice ethical angling and be mindful of the environment to protect the health of this recovering fishery.
Water Conditions
Water levels can fluctuate, especially during spring runoff and after rainstorms. Be sure to check flows before heading out, as high water can make wading challenging and less safe.
Regulations
Certain stretches near Drake may have specific regulations, including catch-and-release zones and artificial flies and lures only. Always review current regulations to ensure you’re fishing in accordance with local rules.
Safety
The riverbed is rocky and slick, and the canyon can create fast-moving currents. Take extra care when wading, use proper footwear for traction, and avoid fishing during or after heavy rain when flash floods are a possibility.
COMMENTS
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