Fishing Season: June-November

The Elk River - CO

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

60

Steamboat Flyfisher's Tip of the Week

The Elk River flow has been steady after recent precipitation, currently running around 45 CFS. Streamers are a productive option in the mornings and evenings. While nymphing and dry dropper's have been productive throughout the day. Feel Free to give a call down to the shop anytime for more in-depth info 970-879-6552

Directions open in app

Map of The Elk River

Water Flow Data

5-Day Outlook as of 9/17/25

Flows are low, mornings are providing the most productivity. Fishing will continue to be good all week. The transition into fall has started with colder water temps.

Techniques & Tips as of 9/17/25

Mornings- nymphing deeper water and fast riffles, mid-day- utilizing hopper-dropper's or dry-droppers to fish pockets that don't have very much depth to them, but are still holding fish. Fishing streamers tight the bank in the mornings and evenings can also produce fish. Afternoon- dry dropper and smaller dries. Fish will eat smaller terrestrials (ants, beetles) as the water warms up. Fish faster water as day goes on.

Local Species Available June-November

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    Brown

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    Brooke

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    Rainbow Cutbow

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    Cutthroat

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    White Fish

Steamboat Flyfisher's Recommended Gear

Description: About The Elk River

Flowing out of the Zirkel Wilderness Area. There are just a few access points to the river starting with Christina State Wildlife Area located about 8 miles out of town. Christina is a 1 mile stretch that provides numerous long runs and solid pocket water. Browns, Rainbows, Cutthroats, Brookies and Whitefish, ranging from 12-18 inches can be found in this stretch of the Elk. The Upper Elk, north of Clark down Seedhouse road, has tons of public water access in the National Forest.

Nearest Airport:

Hayden, HDN

Hatches:

Stones BWO Caddis Midges Leeches

Best Time to Fish:

8am -5pm

Best Stretch:

Christina State Wildlife Area

Best Access:

Christina State Wildlife Area