The Upper Arkansas is the longest Gold Medal trout water in Colorado — 102 continuous miles from above Buena Vista down through Salida. It's a freestone river holding wild and stocked browns, rainbows, and the occasional cutthroat. Much of it is wadeable, much is public, and the Salida-to-BV corridor is dense with pull-off-and-fish access points.
When and what
Caddis emergence in late April through May is the headline event of the year — sometimes thick enough to coat windshields. Stoneflies, BWOs and PMDs follow into summer. Hopper-dropper rigs work well from July through September.
Runoff (mid-May through early July) muddies the river — fishing pivots to side tributaries and tailwaters. Late July through October is the most consistent fishing window.
Access
The river runs alongside US 285 for most of the corridor — pull-offs and Bureau of Land Management public access are abundant. Stone Bridge, Rincon, Hecla Junction, and the BV River Park are all classic public spots.
Local insider tips
- →Caddis hatch in May is the can't-miss week of the year.
- →Hire a guide for one day — even experienced anglers learn the seams.
- →Wade carefully — the rocks are slick and the current is stronger than it looks.
- →Sunrise and the last two hours of light are when the river fishes best.
Frequently asked
Do I need a Colorado fishing license?+
Yes — anyone over 16 needs a Colorado fishing license. Buy online at CPW or at any tackle shop in Salida.
What's a Gold Medal river?+
Colorado's designation for the highest-quality, highest-biomass trout water in the state. The Upper Arkansas holds this designation continuously for 102 miles.
Last reviewed: May 2026