Big Thompson River, Colorado

The Big Thompson River is one of the best places to fish for brown and rainbow trout in Colorado. The river begins within Rocky Mountain National Park and follows U.S. 34 through the Arapaho Roosevelt National Forest. As most of the river freezes over in the winter, the best time to plan a fishing trip along the Big Thompson is from May through October. To access the best fishing spots follow Highway 34 to Estes Park; this parallels the river through meadows, canyons, and finally Estes Lake.

Below the dam at Estes Lake, and all the way along Highway 34, you will find great holes to fish for brown and rainbow trout. The best times to fish the Thompson each day is before noon and after the sun sets. Browns and rainbows found in Colorado's Big Thompson are typically less than 12 inches long.

It is best to approach your fishing spot from downstream in order not to spook the fish. Stoneflies, caddis, and midges work best on this river. You may want to use a longer leader and tippet than normal. Some common flies that are successfully used on the Big T are Beadhead Prince, green Copper John, Zug Bug nymphs, lime Trude, and Olive Hare's Ear. Streamers are uncommon but successful in the fall. Enjoy Colorado's fishing on the Big Thompson River.