Roaring Fork River

Weekly Report

Note: This will be the last report update that will be provided. We’ve loved every minute of this journey and value the relationships we’ve made and the community that we’ve built but unfortunately, it’s time for us to focus on other priorities. Roaring Fork flows gradually returned to the low 600 cfs range after hitting a high of 780 cfs last weekend. A mix of rain and snow in the forecast early next week could impact flows but the impact should be minimal and brief. It’s been a cool week in the Roaring Fork Valley and while the mornings have gotten off to a slower start, fishing during the late morning and afternoon has been great. Trout are eager to chase large meals and are feeding on a variety of bugs. Cloud cover over the next week will increase streamer productivity throughout the day, so don’t feel like you have to ditch your streamer for a nymph setup during the afternoon. When it comes to nymphing, flashy attractor/searcher patterns are highly productive. Red Copper Johns, red Squirmy Worms, Egg Sucking Leeches, eggs, Guide’s Choice Hare’s Ears, Psycho Prince Nymphs, Flashback Pheasant Tails and Rainbow Warriors are solid lead patterns for a nymph rig. Below one of those patterns, trail your confidence midge pupa or baetis emergers. Darth Baetis, Sparkle Wing RS2s, purple/red Zebras, Mercury Black Beauties and Jujubee Midges have been particularly productive. As we move deeper into fall, trout are starting to favor their winter lies throughout the day. Think deep pools, soft runs and pockets. Warm afternoon temps and hatches will pull opportunistic trout into slow riffles and faster seams but for the most part, you’re better off focusing on soft water. Trout are most active between 10 and 4 pm, so let the river sit during the early morning hours.

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