Catching Brown's on the Big Thompson

Fly Fishing on the Big Thompson

One of my favorite things about fly fishing is that regardless the season, you can always find a spot to throw your line in. The Big Thompson west of Drake as always been a go-to for the hubby and I. The scenic trip from the foothills of Loveland to the river is a breath of fresh air as the twinge of eagerness takes hold. The river itself has changed since the 2013 flood, millions have been invested in the restoration process and at times the going has been slow. It is a work in progress with countless people dedicated to its ultimate success. Below Drake, the fish seem non-existent but above that point has always been a successful.  

Fairgrounds Park in Loveland during the floods of 2013. Melody and I. 

One of my favorite spots to go is at Sleepy Hollow Park, we have pulled in some nice size Brown's and Rainbows from there. It also has picnic tables if you wanted to bring snacks or lunch along. During the weekend this spot can get busy but during the week it is a must. Zebra midges and Pheasant tails are always a hit on the Big Thompson regardless of the season. 

Of course, in my mind any chance to jump into the water and get of out office is a win. I love real estate but the river allows me to hit that refresh button that we all need every once in awhile. Catching fish is just the icing on the cake when your on the water, always a treat but not a necessity. Big Thompson canyon is beautiful in it of itself. When the only thing you can hear is the river beneath you and the only thing you feel is the sun on your back, you know you hit the lottery.   

Directly below the dam on the Big Thompson. 

Back in December, we were missing our summertime fly fishing and decided to hit the water up near Estes Park. Directly below the dam in Estes Park flaunts some of the best fishing on the Big Thompson. Typically, this time of year you are nymphing as fish are not hitting on your dry flies. If your not familiar with the river, stop by Kirks Fly Shop in in downtown Estes Park to get an idea of what they are biting on. It was an exciting moment for me when this pretty Brown trout went for my BWO dry fly. The weather might have been cold but this moment made me forget that I couldn't feel my toes! 

The Big Thompson is one of a kind and the fishing only continues to become better as the restoration process comes to an end. Estes Park alone is a blast to visit and we often stop for a cold one at the local brewery after a busy day fishing. It is a treat every time you step into your waders and out onto the water. 

Cheers to catching the big one's!