Anna Reynoso

Runoff is in full swing and we expect peak flows on the Roaring Fork to occur by the end of the month. Keep an eye on the flows (Roaring Fork below Maroon Creek water flows) once peak happens the water drops out fast and we enter some of the best fishing conditions of the year. Until then, expect some challenging, but not impossible fishing. 

It’s not all bad news for the current fishing conditions though. As you move upstream on the Roaring Fork and Frying pan rivers the flows are much more manageable. The dam controlled Frying Pan river is still running at a medium flow for the time being and usually does not ramp up for another couple weeks. The upper Roaring Fork is running high but the water tends to stay relatively clear during runoff. The fishing can be quite good on these drainages with hatches of caddis and stoneflies as well as lots of terrestrials like worms and ants washing into the river with certain areas flooding. 

Fishing will be best in the late afternoon into evenings when the flows are lower and the water is warmer. Take advantage of the slower moving water on the inside bends and behind large structures such as boulders and downed logs. One of the major advantages to high water is that the fish tend to congregate into areas where there is less current so once you find a fish there are likely many more holding in that spot. Also, the fish tend to be much less aware of what’s going on outside the river so your chances of spooking fish or burning the hole are greatly reduced. Nymphing and streamers will be most productive especially on the Roaring Fork. On the Frying Pan you might be able to get them on dries, look for fish rising to caddis and golden stones. You don’t need to get too technical with your fly selection this time of year. Just stick larger, flashier flies to get the fish’s attention amongst all the commotion of the river.

Flies:

Dry Flies: Not much surface action on the Fork at the moment. Best bet is the Frying Pan.

• Chubby Chernobyl #12-6: Might get a look on the upper Roaring Fork or the lower Pan.
• Foam Caddis #14 Fish in tight to the banks and in micro-eddies

Nymphs: Go big and heavy with these. Don’t hesitate to use flies with lots of flash and movement to get the fish’s attention.

• Pat’s Rubber Legs #12-6: Golden stone colors work best
• Squirmy Wormies, tan or red: lots of worms wash into the river this time of year.
• 20 Inchers #12-10: a great drake imitation
• Prince Nymphs #14-12: larger sizes to imitate drakes
• Psypho prince #16-12, purple or chartreuse
• Guides choice hares ear #14-12
• Buckskin #14-12

Streamers: Match the conditions. White flies or sparkle minnows works well when it’s sunny and the water is clear, when it’s dark skies or muddy water go with black