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: Brett Elkman
Report Date: May 10th, 2025
Expect the Fork to have color in it especially from Carbondale down to Glenwood. On warmer days expect it to be blown out. Depending on the clarity it will still be possible to catch fish. Pats Rubber Legs, Worms and Caddis pupa For nymphing. For Dries, we have been seeing BWO's, Midges and Caddis. Streamers are always a good option in the runoff and darker steamers tend to do well.
SPAWNING CLOSURES: The Rainbow Trout are spawning. Be sure to leave them alone and DON'T FISH TO THEM. Look for posted signs and closures.
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, Caddis
Recommended Files:
NYMPHS: Zebra Midge 18-22, Rainbow Warrior blk 20-24, Perdigon 14-18, Pheasant Tail 16-24, 20 Incher Stone 14-16, Pats Rubber Leg 10-14, Hares Ear 10-18, San Juan Worm, Trinas Squirm Worm.
DRIES: Parachute Adams 20-24, Garcias Hot Butt Caddis 14-18, Brooks Sprout BWO Emerger 16-22, Stimi 10-16, Elk, Hair Caddis
STREAMERS: Sculpzillas, Kamikaze Sculpin, Hawkin's Hat Trick, Double Thin Mint,Sex Dungeon