Fly Fishing Near Colorado Springs…A Beginners Adventure
Why Fly Fish Around Colorado Springs??
This area offers great beginner venues- rivers stocked with trout, scenic views, and access to well-supported water systems. Major nearby hotspots include the South Platte River, Arkansas River, and Fountain Creek, each delivering reliable trout action and beautiful surroundings.
Timing & Tactics…
Best seasons:
Spring (April-May) offers low crowds and early insect hatches like midges and BWO’s.
Summer (June-August) delivers sunny days, active fish, and a wide hatch range, ideal for beginners
Choose times wisely: Fish tend to bite best in cool morning and mellow evenings.
Approach tips: Read current river reports from local fly shops, be consistent, and start with stocked fisheries to build confidence.
Learn From the Locals….
Anglers Covey (Colorado Springs)
Operates close to Old Colorado City with over 30 permitted water locations, all within approximately 45-60 minutes of Colorado Springs- including the South Platte River Segments (Deckers, Cheesman, Elevenmile Canyon), Tarryall Resevoir, and Pikes Peak North Slope Lakes.
All gear is included-rods, waders, boots, flies, terminal tackle, and all trips are catch and release.
They offer great customizable trips and education for all abilities. If you are wanting to learn more about the sport they even offer different classes.
The Broadmoor Fish House (Broadmoor Resort in Colorado Springs)
Located in Colorado Springs, this facility offers intro fly-fishing lessons in a pond setting, ideal for first-timers looking to get their feet wet in a relaxed environment.
They also arrange half-day or full-day guided excursions to local waters such as Spinney Mountain State Wildlife Area, Cheesman Canyon, and private access at Tarryall Creek or Eagle Rock Ranch.
Arkansas River Tours (near Canon City/Pueblo area)
Departs from Canon City (about 50 miles south of Colorado Springs), offering guided Arkansas River float and wade trips on Gold Medal trout water with dense trout populations and scenic canyons.
Trip options include half-day and full-day float trips and multi-day wilderness adventures like Browns Canyon or Gunnison Gorge.
Based in Littleton/Denver, they operate public and private water outings within 50-75 miles, many accessible from Colorado Springs. Destinations include South Platte public sections, Spinney Mountain or Elevenmile Resevoir, Tarrayall Cree, and private ranches like Abell River Ranch and Silver tip Ranch.
Full-day trips include equipment, flies, lunch, and guide services. Wader and Rod rentals included.
