What’s the Best Season to Go Fly Fishing in Estes Park?

Estes Park offers year-round fishing, with each season offering distinct advantages:

 

– Spring (April–May): Blue-Winged Olive hatches building; improving flows and RMNP access

– Summer: Peak season backcountry opens, alpine lakes accessible, prolific hatches

– Fall: Spectacular scenery, Brown Trout feeding actively before winter

– Winter/December: Low, clear water; minimal crowds; reliable midge fishing on tailwaters

 

The guides at FFEP fish every month of the year. The Big Thompson tailwater below Lake Estes is the most reliable year-round fishery. The best daily window is typically 10am–3pm during warmer months.