Introduction - One of the rarely discussed components of fly fishing is luck. The proliferation of books, magazines and websites on the sport appears to refine the techniques, equipment and fly patterns to the point where one might well view it all as a science, as if fishing could be reduced to a mathematical equation.

Helpful Information

Fishing Tactics - One of the most important things to know about brown trout fishing on the Arkansas River is that they are truly wild fish. These fish are not highly educated, but they do have great survival instincts. This leads to several key points.
Float Fishing - Float fishing is one of the most effective ways to tackle the Arkansas. Sections of river with difficult shore access or that which flows through private property is often easily approached from a raft or cataraft.
Fly Tying Tips - As on most rivers, the vast majority of an Arkansas River trout’s diet consists of aquatic insects in nymphal, larval, and pupal stages. Presented here are patterns commonly used to imitate this important food source
Local Fish Species - Information on a few of the types of fish that live in the Arkansas
Hatch Seasons - Fly anglers often measure time not in months but by hatches. This is particularly appropriate on the Arkansas where April may mean ice and midges on the river above Granite, blue-wing olive mayflies at Wellsville and brachycentrus caddis filling the skies at Parkdale. Click for Current Local Fishing Conditions

Organizations

Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area - Stretching nearly 150 miles from Leadville to Cañon City, the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area delivers anglers a truly wild white water and flat water experience
Trout Unlimited - This active group is dedicated to conservation, fishing, friendship and fun, with informative monthly meetings, environmental projects, fishing trips and social events.
Division of Wildlife

South Park Fishing Area

Choose the Season, Stream and Fly - The South Platte River below Cheesman Dam is called Cheesman Canyon, also known as The Canyon. The Canyon is a world-class fishery littered with boulders and beautiful runs, riffles and pools. The scenery is unforgettable.
Lakes and Streams in Park County - Looking to tackle some trout or maybe pounce on some pike? Then Park County is the place for you.
Where to Fly Fish