Lees Ferry Anglers

River Report

Everything you need to know from our guides to your lines. Get a heads up of how the mighty Colorado will treat you before you head out.

May 15, 2025

Fishing Report

Upriver Report
5

Walk-in Report
3

Spin Report
5

1 = Go Elsewhere
10 = Get Here Now!

May 15, 2025

Crowd Report

Upriver Crowd
2 Weekday
3 Weekend

Walk-In Crowd
1 Weekday
2 Weekend

1 = Sleep Late & Fish Wherever
10 = Very Crowded, Get Up Early

Up-River Summary

Lees Ferry Fishing Report – May 2024

May 2, 2025
Report by Skip Dixon
River flows have ranged from 8,900 C.F.S. to 14,275 CFS
Water temperature is between 49°F and 51°F.

Upriver Fly fishing report

These flows allow anglers a few different options. Drifting or anchoring on deeper shelves has been productive. With abundant midge hatches, we have seen some very beautiful and robust fish landed. Black and silver midges, along with Midge X in sizes #16 through #22, are recommended.

Some areas are currently wadable. You will find the dry-dropper rig effective in these areas. For anglers who have difficulty seeing dries, a pinch-on foam indicator with two midge patterns below works nicely.

The sink-tip bite has also been productive, especially with olive woolly buggers on a 200-grain sink tip.

These flows are subject to change. In the event of rising water conditions, ginger scuds and larger San Juan Worm patterns are excellent choices.

At this time, the water seems to be dropping rather quickly around noon. Be sure to keep an eye on your vessel to avoid becoming stranded.

Also, be aware of changing weather conditions and dress appropriately. Sunscreen and floppy hats are highly recommended to protect against sun exposure.

Walk-In Summary

Walk-in Report

This area has been a little tough lately. Though the flows are good, mixed reports are coming in.
Anglers who have done well are downsizing, using dual midge patterns under a foam indicator with micro shot (#6/4 recommended). Red San Juan Worms in size #16 also seem to be a good choice.

Spin Fishing Summary

Upriver Spin Fishing

All the reliable lures are still recommended. Maribou jigs, Kastmasters, spinners and Rapala type minnows are the old reliable. Bottom bouncing with glo bugs or beads is still working in deeper water. Target deeper water with jigs, KM’s and flats and rocky banks with Rapalas and spinners. Bottom bouncing with glo bugs or beads is still working as well.

Dam Operations

Last Updated: September 2024

7,500 to 11,000 CFS daily

(Subject to change)

Water Temperatures: 54 to 61 degrees

What people are saying

Reviews

Stayed there in 2014 for 2 days of fly fishing on the Colorado River. Fishing was excellent! Our guide, Dale, was awesome and took good care of us. The staff at the lodge, shop and restaurant were outstanding. Looking forward to going there again.
– Big RTrout | Google Reviews

Lees Ferry Anglers

Where it all begins. We are Arizona’s largest fly fishing outfitter and oldest fly shop at the crown of the Grand Canyon.

Our Guides

We pride ouselves in being great teachers, patient companions and love to share our knowledge of fishing the Colorado.

Fishing Info

A fisherman’s paradise. The apex of the Colorado River known as Lees Ferry is home to thousands of wild trout per mile.

Fisherman Outfitting

Lees Ferry Anglers Fly Shop

Whether you’re buying gear for fishing Lees Ferry or more distant waters, we can provide you with the equipment that has passed our own personal trials and punishment. Visit Fly Shop
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