10 Best Fall Fishing Destinations in Colorado

If you ask seasoned anglers about the best time to fish in Colorado, most will smile and say, “Fall.”

September and October bring a magical mix—cooler weather, active trout, and rivers running clear after summer runoff.

From legendary Gold Medal rivers to high-country reservoirs, Colorado transforms into an angler’s paradise during fall. Here are the 10 best fall fishing spots in Colorado you shouldn’t miss.

1. Fryingpan River – Gold Medal Waters All Year

The Fryingpan River, near Basalt in central Colorado, is a dream destination for serious anglers. Known for its clear tailwaters below Ruedi Reservoir, this river is home to trophy-sized rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout.

In September and October, the Fryingpan shines—flows are steady, hatches are consistent, and big trout feed aggressively before winter.

Fall’s cooler days also make fishing more comfortable, especially in mid-afternoon when trout are most active.

Insider Tip: The stretch near the dam is famous for massive trout, but it also draws heavy fishing pressure. Walk downstream for quieter, equally rewarding spots.

Accessibility: Easily reached from Basalt, with roadside pull-offs and trails leading down to the river.

Regulations: A Colorado fishing license is required. Special catch-and-release rules apply in Gold Medal sections—check Colorado Parks & Wildlife updates before fishing.

2. South Platte River – Dream Stream & Cheesman Canyon

The South Platte River is Colorado’s most talked-about fishery, and for good reason. Two sections stand out in fall: the Dream Stream near Spinney Reservoir and Cheesman Canyon near Deckers.

September marks the start of the brown trout spawn, drawing in anglers looking for trophy-sized fish.

The Dream Stream’s open meadows provide postcard-perfect fishing, while Cheesman Canyon challenges anglers with its rugged terrain and technical waters.

Pro Tip: Use small nymph patterns like midges and baetis during October. Big browns may chase streamers, so keep one ready.

Accessibility: Cheesman Canyon requires a moderate hike into steep terrain, while the Dream Stream is far more accessible with roadside parking.

Nearby Towns: Deckers offers quick access to Cheesman, while Hartsel is closest to the Dream Stream.

3. Blue River – Clear Waters & Easy Access

Running from Dillon Reservoir through Silverthorne, the Blue River is one of Colorado’s most accessible fall fishing rivers.

Being a tailwater, it maintains stable flows and cold, clear water, making it a reliable choice when other rivers are unpredictable.

Fall is prime time to chase its large rainbows and browns, especially near town where cold flows keep fish active.

Accessibility: Perhaps the easiest river for visiting anglers, with plenty of roadside pull-offs through town.

Regulations: This section requires a state fishing license. Some stretches have catch-and-release only rules, so check signage carefully.

4. Gunnison River – Browns, Rainbows & Canyon Views

The Gunnison River is legendary in fall. As September rolls in, brown trout begin their annual spawning runs, and the river becomes a hotspot for anglers chasing aggressive fish.

The Gunnison Gorge, with its red canyon walls and rugged scenery, offers one of the most scenic backdrops for fly fishing in Colorado.

Float fishing is popular here, but wade anglers also find excellent opportunities along public access points.

Insider Tip: If you’re after trophy browns, late September into October is unbeatable. Streamers in darker colors tend to produce big strikes.

Nearby Towns: Gunnison and Montrose serve as the main bases for anglers.

Accessibility: The upper Gunnison is easier to reach, while the Gunnison Gorge requires a hike or float trip into steep terrain.

5. Arkansas River – Fall Fly Fishing Paradise

The Arkansas River near Buena Vista and Salida is one of Colorado’s most productive fisheries.

In September and October, prolific hatches of blue-winged olives and caddis make dry fly fishing especially rewarding.

The combination of stunning fall foliage along the riverbanks and endless fishable miles makes the Arkansas a must-visit in autumn.

Accessibility: Easily reachable from Highway 50 with numerous public access points.

Nearby Towns: Buena Vista and Salida are excellent hubs with lodging, fly shops, and dining options.

6. Roaring Fork River – Nonstop Fall Action

The Roaring Fork River, flowing from Aspen to Glenwood Springs, comes alive in fall.

Known for its healthy trout population and reliable flows, the river offers a mix of deep pools, fast runs, and riffles that appeal to all fishing styles.

In September, expect aggressive feeding as fish prepare for colder days ahead. October keeps the action going with consistent hatches and clear waters.

Nearby Towns: Aspen and Carbondale are the best bases, offering easy access to prime stretches.

7. Taylor River – Tailwater Giant Trout

Below the Taylor Park Reservoir, the Taylor River is famous for its monster trout. The tailwater section is small but mighty, producing some of the biggest rainbows and browns in Colorado.

Fall sees fewer crowds compared to summer, but the fishing can be just as good—sometimes better.

Accessibility: The tailwater is accessible from Almont and Gunnison via well-maintained roads.

8. Colorado River – Classic Fall Fishing Stretch

The mighty Colorado River is not to be overlooked in fall. From Kremmling down through Glenwood Springs, its wide stretches hold rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout.

Flows are lower and clearer in September and October, making it easier to target trout along riffles and pools.

Nearby Towns: Kremmling and Glenwood Springs both offer convenient access points.

9. Spinney Mountain Reservoir – Big Trout Central

Spinney Mountain Reservoir is a fall powerhouse for large rainbows, browns, and cutthroat trout. September and October trigger a pre-winter feeding frenzy, with fish actively chasing lures and flies.

For many anglers, this is the best time to hook into some of the largest trout of the season. Float tubes and boats give you an advantage, but shoreline fishing can be just as productive.

Regulations: Spinney is a special regulation water—flies and lures only, catch-and-release for trout. A state fishing license is required.

10. Eleven Mile Reservoir – Fall Pike & Trout Combo

Few places in Colorado offer the chance to catch both trophy trout and northern pike in the same outing. Eleven Mile Reservoir is that place.

In September, pike are active in weedy bays, while trout cruise the shallows in October. It’s a versatile fall fishery where every cast could surprise you.

Nearby Towns: Lake George is the closest base with supplies and access points.

Accessibility: Easy by car with several boat ramps and shoreline spots.

Conclusion

Whether you’re chasing browns on the Gunnison, rainbows on the Fryingpan, or pike at Eleven Mile, September and October offer fishing memories that last a lifetime.

Read More: 10 Best Colorado Camping Spots in September for Stunning Fall Colors