Estes Park Fishing Report – February 2026

The warm weather has been great for the fishing.

Estes Park Fishing Report – February 2026

Winter has settled into Estes Park, and while the high country is locked up in snow and ice, fishing is still very much an option — if you know where to go and how to adjust. This time of year is all about patience, timing, and fishing slow. The upside? Fewer crowds, beautiful snowy scenery, and surprisingly willing trout during the warmest parts of the day.

Here’s what’s happening right now around Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park.

Big Thompson River – Below Lake Estes

Current Conditions: Flows are low and clear, typical for winter. Water temps are cold, especially in the mornings, so fishing improves significantly from late morning into early afternoon when the sun hits the water.

What’s Working:

• Nymph Rigs: Zebra Midges (black, red), small Perdigons, Rainbow Warriors

• Winter Staples: Pheasant Tails, RS2s, small Baetis patterns

• Tippet: 5x–6x (light and subtle is key)

Tips: Fish slow water. Think deep pools, softer seams, and tailouts where trout can conserve energy. Short drifts and good depth control matter more than fancy fly changes right now. If you see midges coming off mid-day, don’t hesitate to throw a small dry — winter surface eats are special.

This is currently the most consistent winter fishing option in Estes Park.

Good time out fishing in the warm winter weather!

Lake Estes

Current Conditions: Ice coverage varies depending on recent temperatures. There may be limited open water near the inlet or outlet areas, but much of the lake remains frozen.

What’s Working (Open Water):

• Midges and small leeches under an indicator

• Slow-stripped olive or black Woolly Buggers

Tips: If there’s safe open water, focus on the warmest part of the day. Fish will move shallow briefly when temperatures tick up. Slow everything down — retrieves should be steady and subtle.

Always use caution around shorelines and ice edges.

Rocky Mountain National Park Streams

Current Conditions: Many higher elevation sections are snow-covered and partially frozen. However, lower stretches of the Big Thompson through Moraine Park and sections of Fall River can still be fishable on warmer days.

What’s Working:

• Small midges (size 20–24)

• Blue-Winged Olive nymphs

• Tiny Pheasant Tails

Tips: Midday is everything. Plan to fish between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. when water temps rise just enough to trigger light feeding. Keep your presentations tight to structure and fish slow, methodical water.

Winter fishing inside Rocky Mountain National Park can be incredibly rewarding if you’re prepared for cold conditions.

High Alpine Lakes

Current Conditions: Fully frozen and snow-covered. Ice fishing is not permitted in Rocky Mountain National Park.

These lakes won’t reopen until late spring.

Final Thoughts

February fishing in Estes Park is technical but rewarding. Low flows and clear water mean you’ll need a stealthy approach and light tippet. Fish are eating — just not moving far to do it.

If you’re willing to bundle up and fish smart, winter can offer some of the most peaceful days you’ll ever experience on the Big Thompson River.

Want to skip the guesswork?

🎣 Book a guided winter fly fishing trip with Lost Outfitters and we’ll dial in the right water, the right flies, and the right timing for you.

For the latest updates and seasonal conditions, visit:👉 www.lostoutfitters.com

See you on the water.