River Guide
Cache la Poudre River
Colorado's Only Wild & Scenic River
Location
Fort Collins / Larimer County
Best Season
April – November
Difficulty
All Levels
Water
75+ miles of fishable water
Overview
The Cache la Poudre is the crown jewel of Northern Colorado fly fishing. Designated as Colorado's only Wild and Scenic River, the Poudre River cuts through a stunning granite canyon west of Fort Collins offering over 75 miles of fishable water. From the wild backcountry of Rocky Mountain National Park down through the canyon to the agricultural plains, the Poudre River offers everything from technical tailwater fishing to freestone pocket water.
Access Points
Poudre Park
Popular access point at the canyon mouth with good parking. Mixed pocket water and pools. Hwy 14 pullouts nearby.
Stevens Gulch
Mid-canyon access with less pressure. Longer walk-ins reward with quality fish and fewer anglers.
Big South Trailhead
Upper canyon access requiring a hike. Excellent for cutthroat in the backcountry sections.
Bellvue
Lower canyon access near Fort Collins. Good early and late-season fishing for browns.
Regulations
Always Verify Current Regulations
Catch-and-release only in designated Gold Medal sections. Check CPW regulations for current rules. Valid Colorado fishing license required.
Fish Species
- Brown Trout
- Rainbow Trout
- Brook Trout
- Cutthroat Trout