Discover prime fishing spots, regulations, and local expert tips for Rocky Mountain National Park waters
All anglers 16 and older must have a valid Colorado fishing license. Purchase online at cpw.state.co.us
• Bag & Possession Limits: 4 trout per day (8 in possession)
• Size Limits: Minimum 16" for brown trout on Big Thompson River
• Artificial Flies & Lures Only: No bait fishing allowed in RMNP
• Greenback Cutthroat: Catch-and-release only for this rare native species
Runoff season. Lower elevation streams best. Fish are hungry after winter.
Prime time! Alpine lakes accessible. Hatches begin. Perfect for dry flies.
Beautiful foliage. Aggressive feeding before winter. Fewer crowds.
Many areas closed. Lower elevation streams only. Ice fishing not permitted.
Holds very large cutthroat trout. The challenging hike filters out most anglers, leaving pristine fishing for those who make the effort.
Year-round
Dry flies for surface feeders. Bring various patterns.
Medium-sized river winding through timber and meadows in Kawuneeche Valley. Tributaries also support healthy trout populations.
Year-round
Dry-dropper setup recommended. Try nymphs in deeper pools.
Most accessible high mountain lake with excellent cutthroat fishing and picturesque landscape. Perfect for families and beginners.
Year-round
Dry flies work well. Fish early morning for best results.
Great high mountain trout fishing with action even late in season. Beautiful setting surrounded by peaks.
Year-round
Dry flies and nymphs. Fish remain active even in October.
Beautiful freestone creek with fast-moving riffles, boulders, and holes. Four species of trout make this a special destination.
Year-round
Dry flies especially successful in summer. Focus on pocket water.
Very consistent Greenback Cutthroat fishing. High alpine lake requiring significant effort but delivering excellent results.
Year-round
Flush-floating dry flies for flat water. Try dry-dropper when fish are cruising.
Healthy trout populations in beautiful alpine setting. Several other lakes nearby for exploration.
Year-round
Standard lake tactics. Dry flies and streamers both effective.
Meanders through beautiful meadow with complex holding structure, riffles, and pools. Further upstream has more brook trout and rare Greenback Cutthroat.
Year-round
Dry flies work well. Trout spook easily in open meadow areas. Use stealthy approach.
Easy access with fish cruising constantly. Great for high mountain trout fishing without the hike.
Year-round
Inlet by parking area has deeper water. Try dry dropper or small streamers.
Pristine environment perfect for solitude. Brown trout in lower areas, Brook and Greenback Cutthroat above Copeland Falls.
Year-round
Small dry flies and nymphs. Be prepared for technical fishing.
Local fly shop with guides, gear rentals, and expert advice
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