Arkansas River

Among the nation’s most sought-after whitewater, the Arkansas River in Colorado offers spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains’ highest “fourteeners” (14,000-foot peaks) and incredible local wildlife (bighorn sheep, deer, elk, birdlife and more).

Fly Fishing

The Arkansas River

Taking advantage of the abundant fish, wildlife, and plant resources, Ute Indians inhabited the upper basin of the Arkansas River in Colorado upon the arrival of Spanish explorers in the 1700’s. An ethic of conservation has preserved much of the upper Arkansas’s stunning natural beauty and resourcefulness. Today, the entire river is a Colorado State Park and the work of institutions both public and private ensures that future generations will have the opportunity to experience the enchantment of this classic western river.

The Arkansas River is one of Colorado’s major waterways, great for Colorado river fishing. This high-elevation river with crystal-clear water provides the perfect environment for fly fishing. Its headwaters are near Leadville and it flows south through the towns of Buena Vista and Salida. There is over 100 miles of floatable water with Gold Medal fly fishing stretches that hold an abundance of Colorado Brown and Rainbow Trout.

Man fly fishing in a Colorado river.
Fun & Mellow
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3 HOUR COLORADO FLY FISHING WADE

It doesn’t matter if it’s your first time trying out fly fishing or you’ve been doing it your whole life, Fly Fishing Colorado’s experienced [...]

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Fun & Mellow
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4 HOUR UPPER COLORADO FLY FISHING FLOAT

Spend some time with Fly Fishing Colorado casting flies on the notorious Colorado River! Our four hour float trips are perfect for both novice [...]

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Fishing Facts

  • The Arkansas River is the 6th longest river in the United States
  • The Arkansas River is known for its exceptional trout fishing
  • The Arkansas River has a controlled water flow
  • The Arkansas River aquatic insect population is diverse

ABOUT THE ARKANSAS RIVER

Among the nation’s most sought-after whitewater, the Arkansas River in Colorado offers spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains’ highest “fourteeners” (14,000-foot peaks) and incredible local wildlife (bighorn sheep, deer, elk, birdlife and more). Taking advantage of the abundant fish, wildlife, and plant resources, Ute Indians inhabited the upper basin of the Arkansas River in Colorado upon the arrival of Spanish explorers in the 1700’s. An ethic of conservation has preserved much of the upper Arkansas’s stunning natural beauty and resourcefulness. Today, the entire river is a Colorado State Park and the work of institutions both public and private ensures that future generations will have the opportunity to experience the enchantment of this classic western river.

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