Casting the Upper Colorado: Guide-Rowed Fly Fishing Near Kremmling
A low-stress, high-reward day of guide-rowed casting on the legendary Upper Colorado near Kremmling.
Dawn comes slow to the canyon. The Upper Colorado shakes off the night in silver ripples, pushing forward with that steady insistence rivers are known for. You meet your guide at the Kremmling outpost, steam wisping from a thermos, rods already rigged. By the time you reach the Pumphouse put-in, the river is fully awake—murmuring along willow banks, flickering over cobble, daring you to find a seam and lay a line just so.
Trail Wisdom
Buy your license ahead of time
Colorado Parks & Wildlife fishing licenses are required for anglers 16+ and are not typically included—purchase online before you arrive.
Dress for mountain microclimates
Weather swings fast at 7,000 feet—pack a breathable sun layer and a compact rain shell even on bluebird days.
Polarized glasses pay dividends
Polarization lets you read seams and spot fishy structure while protecting your eyes from errant hooks.
Non-slip river footwear
Quick-dry shoes or wading boots with good traction make shoreline hops safer on slick, uneven cobble.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Radium Hot Springs—an informal riverside soak downstream when flows allow
- •Trough Road overlooks for sweeping views of the Colorado River corridor
Wildlife
Bald eagles, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep
Conservation Note
Managed by the BLM as a Special Recreation Management Area, this fishery benefits from careful handling—wet your hands, minimize air exposure, and clean gear to prevent invasive species.
This corridor has long been a travel route, from Ute homelands to the audacious railroad push through nearby Gore Canyon; ranching remains the backbone of Kremmling’s economy.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: BWO hatches, Cool, uncrowded mornings
Challenges: High, cold runoff, Unpredictable weather
Expect variable flows and clearer windows between storms; guides often fish nymphs and emergers during Blue-Winged Olive activity.
summer
Best for: Caddis and PMD hatches, Warm, comfortable float conditions
Challenges: Afternoon thunderstorms, Bright mid-day sun
Stable flows and busy hatches make for lively days; pack sun protection and plan around typical afternoon clouds.
fall
Best for: Aggressive brown trout, Low, clear water
Challenges: Cool mornings, Shorter daylight
Crisp air and prime visibility reward technical drifts; terrestrial patterns taper as fish key on naturals again.
winter
Best for: Solitude, Nymphing in mid-day warmth
Challenges: Icy edges, Limited outfitter schedules
Some stretches remain fishable in milder spells, but trips are less common; dress warmly and watch for ice at ramps.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Polarized SunglassesEssential
Cuts surface glare so you can read seams, spot fish, and protect your eyes.
Lightweight Rain ShellEssential
Mountain weather turns quickly; a packable shell keeps you dry during surprise showers.
Colorado Fishing LicenseEssential
Required for anglers 16+; purchase online from Colorado Parks & Wildlife before your trip.
Quick-Dry Footwear or Wading BootsEssential
Grippy soles help on slick cobble during short bank stops and at the ramp.
Common Questions
Do I need prior fly fishing experience?
No. The small guide-to-angler ratio means you’ll get hands-on coaching, whether it’s your first time or your hundredth.
What species are common on this stretch?
Brown trout are the primary target with healthy rainbow populations; occasional whitefish are also present.
Is the trip catch-and-release?
Most guided trips practice catch-and-release to protect the fishery; ask your guide about current regulations and best practices.
What should I wear and bring?
Dress in layers with a sun hoodie, quick-dry pants, and a rain shell; bring polarized sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, water, and your valid fishing license.
Are there restrooms at the launch?
Yes. BLM recreation sites such as Pumphouse have vault toilets at the put-in and takeout.
How far is Kremmling from Summit County?
Plan on about 1–1.5 hours by car depending on road and weather conditions.
What to Pack
Polarized sunglasses to spot seams and protect your eyes; Sun hoodie and brimmed hat for UV at elevation; Compact rain shell for fast-changing mountain weather; Refillable water bottle to stay hydrated on a high-altitude float.
Did You Know
The Colorado River’s headwaters rise in Rocky Mountain National Park, and the Blue River joins the Colorado at Kremmling—just downstream of many popular float-fishing launches.
Quick Travel Tips
Buy your Colorado fishing license online before arrival; Expect limited cell service in the canyon—download directions; Afternoon thunderstorms are common—pack a shell; Confirm meeting location and shuttle details with your guide the day before.
Local Flavor
Post-float, refuel in Kremmling: grab a latte and pastry at Big Shooter Coffee, then settle in for a burger and a local pint at Grand Adventure Brewing. If you’ve got extra time, drive the scenic Colorado River Headwaters Byway toward Hot Sulphur Springs for a mellow soak.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airports: Eagle County (EGE) ~1.5 hours west; Denver (DEN) ~2.5 hours east. Launch area: Pumphouse Recreation Area via Trough Road, ~17 miles from Kremmling. Cell service: Spotty to none in the canyon—plan offline. Permits: Colorado fishing license required; BLM site day-use fees may apply (often handled by your outfitter).
Sustainability Note
Rinse and dry wading boots and gear between river systems to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Handle trout with wet hands, keep fish in the water, and release quickly to maintain this productive fishery.
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