Summer is one of the best times to be on the water in Colorado. Terrestrials are flying, high-country streams are in great shape, and mornings on the river can be downright magical.

But this year, many of Colorado's lower-elevation trout streams are facing an added challenge. With below-average snowpack, reduced runoff, and extended stretches of hot weather, water temperatures are climbing earlier than normal. That means anglers have an even greater responsibility to think beyond simply catching fish.

Fortunately, it doesn't take much. A simple thermometer, a little awareness, and a few adjustments to your fishing habits can make a huge difference.

Why Water Temperature Matters

Trout are cold-water fish. As water temperatures rise, dissolved oxygen levels fall. That means trout have to work harder just to survive, even before they're hooked.

When you fight and handle a trout in warm water, you're adding additional stress to a fish that's already working overtime. While it may swim away after release, delayed mortality becomes much more likely as water temperatures increase.

Carry a Stream Thermometer

One of the most valuable tools you can add to your vest or pack isn't another fly. It's a thermometer. They're inexpensive, weigh almost nothing, and take the guesswork out of deciding whether conditions are safe for trout fishing. Shop Thermometers Here

Before you start fishing, place your thermometer in moving water for a minute or two and let it stabilize. If you're fishing throughout the morning, check it periodically. Water temperatures can climb surprisingly fast, especially on sunny afternoons.

If you're moving to a different stretch of river, take another reading. Temperatures can vary considerably between sections of the same watershed.

A Simple Temperature Guide

Take a screenshot or remember these general guidelines for trout streams:

Below 65°F

• Excellent conditions for trout.

• Fish are active and recover well after release.

65-66°F

• Fish with extra care.

• Land fish quickly, minimize handling, and consider wrapping up before temperatures continue climbing.

67°F and above

• It's time to give trout a break.

• Even with careful catch-and-release, mortality rates increase significantly once water temperatures exceed 67°F.

If your thermometer climbs above 67 degrees, it's a great opportunity to head for lunch, explore a nearby high alpine lake, target warmwater species like bass or carp, or simply save that river for another day.

Fish Early

Water temperatures are usually at their lowest shortly after sunrise and warm steadily throughout the day.

An early morning start often provides cooler water, more active trout, better insect activity, and healthier release conditions. By early afternoon, many rivers have already crossed into temperatures where it's better to call it a day.

Land Fish Quickly

Long fights exhaust trout, especially in warm water.

You can help by using appropriately heavy tippet, applying steady pressure throughout the fight, and bringing fish to hand efficiently instead of playing them for several minutes. A shorter fight gives trout a much better chance of recovering after release.

Keep Fish Wet

If there's one catch-and-release tip worth remembering all summer, it's this: The water is the best place for a trout. Whenever possible, keep the fish in the net while removing the fly. Remember to wet your hands before touching the fish, and support the fish gently. Finally, allow it to recover while facing into the current before it swims away on its own.

The less time a trout spends out of the water, the better.

Skip the Photo (Or Make It Quick)

Everyone enjoys remembering a memorable fish. But during periods of warm water, every second counts.

Instead of holding a trout up for several photos, consider taking a quick picture while the fish remains partially submerged in the net. If you do lift it from the water, have the camera ready beforehand and limit air exposure to just a few seconds.

That one extra photo usually isn't worth the added stress on the fish.

Know Before You Go

Before every summer fishing trip, it's worth checking river flows, weather forecasts, and current conditions. Low flows and hot weather can change a river dramatically from one week to the next.

Our staff at Anglers All is always happy to point you toward rivers that are fishing well, higher elevation streams that stay cooler, or stillwaters that provide excellent opportunities when lower rivers begin to warm.

Sometimes the best fishing decision isn't changing flies. It's changing destinations.

Good Anglers Protect Great Fisheries

By carrying a thermometer, paying attention to water temperatures, handling fish responsibly, and knowing when it's time to walk away, every angler can help ensure those fisheries remain healthy.

Contact Us with Questions

Have questions or need help finding great fishing this summer? Our knowledgeable team would love to help. Stop by one of our fly shop locations in Littleton or Denver. We have the gear and expertise to help you prepare for your next great day on the water!