FISHING REPORT: ROARING FORK
OVERVIEW
The Roaring Fork River originates high in the mountains south of Aspen and runs from Independence Pass to the confluence with the Colorado River at Glenwood Springs. Its major tributaries are the Frying Pan and the Crystal River. The Roaring Fork is a true freestone stream and is one of the finest rivers in all of Colorado. Heavy hatches of Green Drakes, caddis, yellow sallies and PMDS create outstanding fishing thoughout the summer but fishing is also great the rest of the year and the Fork is one of best winter fisheries in Colorado. Float fishing can be excellent from Woody Creek down, however the majority of the float fishing is done from the confluence of the Frying Pan near Basalt down stream to Glenwood Springs. The Roaring Fork is a Gold Medal river and boasts an excellent population of medium to large size trout that make a day on this river one not to miss when in the area.
Temperature
Discharge
Other Information
The fishing on the Roaring Fork is good every month of the year and is one of Colorado's most productive winter fisheries. The Fork is floatable all year and weather conditions in February and March are often very comfortable with temperatures between 40 to 55 during winter! We provide Guided Fishing Trips, even throughout the winter. Let us show you some tips to catching fish by hiring a guide for the day. If you would like we can meet you in Glenwood Springs or anywhere in the Roaring Fork valley.
Reporter: Emily Dmohowski
Report Date: April 10, 2024
Spring has sprung and the Fork is fishing well and it is wide open. Action can be had both Nymphing and Dries are fishing well but the nymphing has been the most consistant. Emerger style patterns such as RS2's and Barr Emergers under a Para Wulff has been working on the surface. Midges, BWO's and Stoneflies are present. Nymphing is still the best bet. Perdigons, Pats Rubber Legs as a first fly followed by a Zebra Midge or Black Beauty or a Barr Emerger have been good. Dont be afraid to change it up. For streamers, throw Sculpin patterns. The fish are starting to spread out so cover the water well. Deep Pools, Eddies, Foam lines are all good. The streamer bite has been good too.
SPAWNING CLOSURES: Please avoide 4 and 3 Mile Creek Closures on the Fork. Signs are up and fishing is off limits between signs until May 31st.
KEEP EM WET: Please follow the Keep Em Wet philosophy and keep the fish wet. If you must take a photo, leave the fish in the water.
Hatches: Midges, BWO's, winter stones
Recommended Files:
NYMPHS: 20 Incher 14-16, Zebra Midge 18-22, Rainbow Warrior blk 20-24, Perdigon 14-16, Pheasant Tail 16-20, Prince 12-16, Foamback Emerger 18-22, RS2 18-22, Hunchback BWO 18-22, Barr Emerger 18-22, Pats Rubber Leg 10-14
DRIES: Parachute Adams 20-24, Garcias Mini Hoat May 18-22, Para Adams 18-24
STREAMERS: Sculpzillas, Kamikaze Sculpin, Hawkin's Hat Trick, Double Thin Mint,Sex Dungeon