Colorado River Fishing Report with Paul Killino – Early Summer Action Heats Up

The Colorado River is alive and well, offering some stellar fishing conditions as we move into the heart of the summer season. Colorado River Outfitters’ guide Paul Killino recently did a guide trip on the upper Colorado and the results were nothing short of outstanding. Here’s what went down during our latest float.

Topwater Action – Double Dry Delight

From the boat, we had great success throwing a double dry setup—pairing a size 14 elk hair caddis with a trailing size 18 elk hair caddis. This classic combo brought plenty of action to the surface, especially in the riffles and along shaded seams. Fish were confidently rising to both flies, making for exciting visual takes and steady hookups throughout the day.

Canyon Cruising – Chubby & Dropper Game

As we floated deeper into the canyon stretches, we switched gears to a tried-and-true method: the Chubby Chernobyl with a HOT SHOT jig dropper, running about 24” below. This rig was dynamite in the pocket water and around submerged structure. The Chubby drew attention up top, while the HOT SHOT delivered solid eats below. It’s a combo that not only covers water efficiently but also puts quality fish in the net.

Nymphing the Deep Cuts

When we hit the deeper holes, we went down with a heavier nymph rig—starting with a size 10 RL Stone (black attractor) and trailing a size 20 black RS2. This setup got us into the zone fast and proved effective for targeting the bigger, more lethargic fish holding in cooler, deeper water. If you’re not probing these depths, you’re missing out on some serious action.

Micro Water Magic – PMD Mayhem

Don’t sleep on the skinny water! When we targeted the micro seams and quiet back-eddies, we went with a double down nymph rig—Flashback Barr’s Emerger PMD in size 18 to a size 22 trailer. PMDs have been hot, and the fish are keyed in. This lightweight, delicate presentation fooled plenty of picky eaters and brought some surprising slabs to the net in water you’d otherwise overlook.

The Barrs Emerger in PMD is a staple on the Colorado River.

Final Word

All in all, the Colorado is fishing great right now. Whether you’re tossing dries, running a dropper rig, or nymphing the depths, there’s no shortage of opportunity. Huge thanks to Paul Killino sharing his dialed-in techniques.

If you’re looking to book a trip, now’s the time. Get in touch with us here at Colorado River Outfitters, and ask for Paul—you won’t be disappointed.

Tight lines until next time!

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