Spring fishing on the Lower Colorado River is one of our favorite times to be out. March is approaching quickly and many anglers are itching to get fishing after the long winter. Well, get those fly lines cleaned up and dig those waders out of the garage. It’s about that time!
We’ve already been out on the Colorado River a couple of times in 2026. I’ve been pretty pleased with what I’ve seen. Water temperature is still a bit cold, but the fish are willing to eat, if you can find the right fly. They have been keying in on very specific flies but if you can solve the puzzle, you’re in for a solid winter day of fly fishing.
Why Spring is the Best on the Colorado River
Spring on the Lower Colorado River is one of those windows that seasoned anglers quietly look forward to all winter. The days start to warm, the river wakes up, and trout shift from winter survival mode into steady feeding patterns. Before the big runoff hits, the Lower Colorado offers some of the most consistent and rewarding fishing of the entire year — especially for anglers who know where to look and how to adapt to changing conditions.
This is one of my favorite times of year to catch some quality fish. The water clarity is exceptional. There’s not nearly as many people out there. While your best bet is usually with the nymph rod and heavy tungsten beads, don’t forget to bring your small dry fly box. Cloudy days can give way to a Blue Wing Olive hatch and make for some exceptional dry fly fishing.
Understanding Spring Conditions on the Lower Colorado
As the calendar turns to March, the longer days start to slowly warm things up but not enough to melt enough snow to dirty the water up. Early spring, which I consider mid-February to early March, the water is still crystal clear, but the temperature is slowly rising, which gets the trout to feed more consistently.
Water will typically stay clear for the majority of the month of March. However, keep a close eye on daily and nightly temperatures. When it stops freezing overnight and gets very comfortable during the day, we’ll start to see the runoff begin.
Weather can be variable, but fishing can be good regardless. I’ve had banger days with 4″ of snow stacked up in the drift boat. I’ve also had days where we’re in short sleeves shirts and putting on sunscreen. Be prepared for all types of weather!
Spring Hatches on the Lower Colorado
I floated just a couple of days ago and was seeing a lot of midge activity on the surface and even a couple of fish eating on the surface. I wouldn’t count on catching a lot of fish rising to the midges, at the moment. However, that’s a good sign that the Blue Wing Olive hatches may be just around the corner.
It’s tough to chase the BWO hatch, as you really do need a good, cloudy day. Your best bet is to get out there when you can and be prepared for nymphing and some small dry fly action, if you see fish feeding. I’ve had days where the fish were really keyed in on the emergers and not the adult bugs.
- Blue Wing Olives: definitely the hatch everybody looks for but be prepared with some emerger patterns if the fish aren’t keyed on the adults
- Midges: always around and the fish have been eating these all winter
- Caddis: depending on the year, these bugs can be around toward the end of the spring
- Stonefly: I wouldn’t worry about bringing my adult stonefly flies but the nymphs can get some surprisingly good action this time of year.
Trout Behavior & Where to Find Them
Early in the season, trout stay low and conserve energy. Nymphing is the most productive method, especially in deeper, slower water. But as temperatures rise and BWOs start to pop, fish will slide into the soft edges and feed higher in the column. On overcast days, you can even find pods of fish rising steadily — a spring treat that surprises many anglers.
Trout metabolism is tied directly to water temperature. In early spring, mornings can still be chilly, but as the sun hits the river, temperatures climb into that ideal feeding range. This warming trend creates defined feeding windows, often late morning through afternoon, when fish become noticeably more active.
Trout will not be far from their winter holding areas so focus on the slower seams, soft pockets behind structure, drop offs / ledges near the banks, etc. The key is reading the river and getting your flies to drift in the feeding zone.
Productive Techniques for Spring Success
Nymphing Setups
Spring nymphing is all about depth and weight. Use enough weight to get down quickly, and focus on seams, inside bends, and slower walking‑speed water. Two‑fly rigs with a mix of small BWOs or midges paired with a stonefly or attractor nymph are a staple this time of year.
Streamer Approaches
When the water has a little color or the clouds roll in, streamers shine. Think slow, deliberate retrieves — big fish don’t want to chase far in cold water. Target banks, structure, and drop‑offs.
Dry Fly Opportunities
Those magical BWO afternoons are one of the best parts of spring. Look for slower water near seams or foam lines where trout can rise without burning energy. Presentation matters: long leaders, soft casts, and small patterns.
Gear Recommendations for Spring
Rods: 5–6 weight rods for nymphing and streamers
Leaders: Longer leaders for dries; heavier setups for nymph rigs
Waders & Layers: Mornings can still be cold — dress for changing conditions
Fly Box Essentials: BWOs, midges, caddis emergers, stonefly nymphs, and a few confidence streamers
Safety Gear: PFDs, throw bags, medical kit, etc.
Ready to Experience Spring on the Lower Colorado?
If you’re looking to make the most of this early-season window, spring floats on the Lower Colorado are one of the best ways to do it. With local knowledge, safe navigation, and a dialed-in understanding of spring conditions, we’ll put you on the right water at the right time.
Let’s get you on the river this spring.
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