Runoff is finally here.  As we knew it would come sooner or later.  This year was a bit later due to such a cool spring.  The Arkansas River has come up about 1200 CFS in the last 5 days and is currently running above 2000 in town.  With temps in the high 70’s and low 80’s this whole next week is does not look as if we will see a drop again until she’s all done!  That being said, fishing in the lower valley currently is extremely difficult to unfishable.  Little to no visibility, swift currents, and lots of debris.  Fish are stressed!  

But… there are opportunities higher in the drainage.  In the Granite and Leadville area the Arkansas is still coming up but water is much clearer and still fishing well.  There are also many still water options in the surrounding areas.  High alpine lakes and ponds in town are great to fish on during high water.

Don’t be afraid to explore a bit during these times and find some new water to fish!  Lots of streams are moving and small water can be really fun.  It’s also fun to get out and do some white water rafting.  We may see some historic flows this year.  It’s all a big question mark as to how long the high water will last and exactly how high the water will get.  

Happy fishing (and boating!) and stay safe out there!