2025 Fly Fishing Season Recap from Budge’s Lodge
A Season to Remember in Colorado’s High Country
It’s hard to believe that October is here and that another season of wilderness fly fishing adventures has already come and gone. But what a season it was!
From the end of June through late September, we were privileged to welcomed anglers from across the country. Guests visited us from places like New York, North Carolina, Alabama, Texas, Oklahoma, California, and plenty of locals from right here in Colorado. With cold, clear water, healthy fish, and bluebird days, our 2025 fishing season was one for the books.
Early Summer: What Runoff?
Our season kicked off on June 28. Due to a low winter snowpack, we did not see the fast-moving water that we often experience during the first couple weeks of the season. Right off the bat, conditions were perfect and the early summer hatches brought trout to the surface. We enjoyed a great 4th of July weekend at the lodge, and the wildflowers sure put on a show!
Mid-Summer Heat
By mid-July, dry fly fishing was in full swing. Returning guests and first-time visitors alike made this mid-season stretch especially memorable. We are always grateful to share these moments with familiar faces who make Budge’s feel like home.
This was perhaps one of the driest summers we’ve ever experienced. We saw hardly a drop of rain through most of July and August. Thankfully, the headwaters springs that feed this river kept the water temperatures and flows cold and stable even through a dry summer like this one. As far as the fishing goes, it never skipped a beat.
However, fire danger was an issue with wildfires burning in several places throughout the area in northwest Colorado. Fortunately, nothing came close enough to threaten our camps or structures. But some of our neighboring outfitters and friends were forced to evacuate for periods of time. We were all relieved when a change in weather finally arrived in late August and early September with some much-needed rain.
Late Season: Golden Willows and Hungry Trout
September brought cooler mornings, golden hillsides, and some of the best fishing of the year. Hopper and caddis patterns produced steady action on the surface, while streamers and heavy nymphs drew aggressive strikes from bigger fish.
The end of the fishing season is always a special time. The change in weather and change in colors brings a calm that makes us fall in love with this place all over again.
Giving Back: Fishing for a Cause
At Budge’s, we’re proud to share these wilderness adventures with nonprofits and groups whose missions are close to our hearts. This season we donated trips to help support Trout Unlimited, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Casting for Recovery.
Then in September, we were once again thrilled host an annual retreat with Revital Colorado, an outstanding organization that supports first responders. This trip is always a highlight of our year. A big thanks to guide, Bob Terwilliger, who donates his time each year for this event, as well as the other volunteers with Revital.
These partnerships remind us that fishing isn’t just about the catch. The relationships and the people are what make it special.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As we close the books on a great 2025 fishing season, we’re filled with gratitude For our guides, wranglers, kitchen crew, and every guest who joined us this season.
Planning for next year is already underway. If you’d like to join us for the 2026 fishing season, get in touch early. Our limited capacity seems to fill up more quickly every year. Our contact info is here. And you can learn more about our wilderness fly fishing adventures here.