River Reports

The Fork is settling into its early-winter identity. This is probably one of the best times of year for fly fishing in the Roaring Fork Valley for those who brave the elements. While the mid-river and lower-river flows are higher than the upper Aspen stretch, the whole system is running low and clear. This concentrates fish into deeper troughs, gentle seams, and inside corners where energy conservation matters. Eggs paired with tiny midge larvae or baetis emergers are producing excellent results. Streamer fishing hasn't disappeared — smaller, natural tones fished slowly in low light can move fish — but this is primarily a nymphing game now. Presentation really matters: long, drag-free drifts are key. Take your time adjusting depth until you occasionally tap bottom. Focus on softer winter water and avoid the fast stuff; the holding zones are predictable if you slow down and read the structure.

The Fryingpan is running low and crystal clear, which means two things: the fish are a little extra spooky, but still hungry, and are incredibly aware of anything unnatural. The low and clear conditions make them spook to almost anything — even perfect drifts can get refused if too much leader, indicator, or shadow hits the water. Think long leaders, tiny flies, and quiet, deliberate movements. Midges are the bread-and-butter throughout the entire upper river, and drifting a small midge emerger behind a mysis or egg has been extremely productive. Try a Juju Baetis down to a smaller midge, such as a Mercury Pheasant Tail or Zebra Midge. Further downstream, the same themes continue: clear water, tiny insects, and the need for long leaders. You'll see occasional baetis activity on cloudy afternoons, but nothing explosive. Sight-fishing is the name of the game now — low flows make trout visible, but they're sitting in soft edges, gentle seams, and deeper winter pockets. Expect the best fishing from late morning through afternoon when temperatures bump slightly. Stealth, drag-free drifts, and the right micro-patterns are the keys to success.

The Eagle has been one of the more consistent options lately, thanks to stable low flows and excellent clarity. Midges are the driving force behind daily feeding, with trout keying in on small larvae and emergers in softer water. Nymphing with a small amount of split shot and light tippet is extremely effective. Dry-fly fishing isn't gone — the Eagle will still give you brief midge eats in the slow stuff, especially mid-day when temps rise. Overcast days offer a chance at BWOs, though these windows are shorter now. Streamers work best in low light, especially with slow retrieves near structure or deeper cut banks. Don't be afraid to throw some stoneflies in the mix too. Expect the best fishing from late morning through afternoon. Browns are finishing up their spawn, so eggs remain highly productive. As winter settles in, focusing on slower holding water, clean drifts, and minimal presentation disturbance will keep you on fish.