River Guide
Big Thompson River
Technical Fishing in a Storied Canyon
Location
Estes Park to Loveland / Larimer County
Best Season
May – October
Difficulty
Intermediate
Water
40+ miles of fishable water
Overview
The Big Thompson River flows east out of Estes Park through a spectacular canyon before reaching the plains near Loveland. Known for technical dry-fly fishing and spooky, well-educated trout, the Big Thompson rewards patient, precise anglers. The river's Gold Medal section through the canyon is one of Colorado's most productive—and challenging—stretches of water.
Access Points
Viestenz-Smith Mountain Park
City of Loveland park with excellent public access and parking. Great all-season access point near the canyon mouth.
Drake Area
Upper canyon access. Multiple pullouts along Hwy 34 provide walk-in access to uncrowded water.
Estes Park Outfalls
Below Lake Estes dam. Consistent flows year-round thanks to releases. Technical nymphing water with big fish.
Glen Haven
Mid-canyon access via County Road 43. Excellent pocket water and less pressure than highway pullouts.
Regulations
Always Verify Current Regulations
Gold Medal catch-and-release section from Lake Estes to Drake. Artificial lures and flies only in designated sections. Check CPW for current regulations.
Fish Species
- Brown Trout
- Rainbow Trout