Eagle River
Colorado Fly Fishing
Eagle River
- •Deep indicator nymph rigs with midges + baetis
- •Egg–midge or egg–RS2 combos (egg season remains strong)
- •Small baetis nymphs (Juju Baetis, RS2)
- •Slow streamer swings in deep holes
- •Light tippet + soft presentations in low/clear flows
Midges are the dominant hatch mid-day as water warms. BWOs appear in small numbers during cloudy windows in softer seams. Eggs are still a major food source as browns wrap up spawning, and trout are targeting them in deeper pockets.
Detailed Report
The Eagle at 145 CFS is officially in early-winter mode. Low and clear conditions are pushing fish into deeper, slower pools, drop-offs, and soft seams. Fishing can be steady but very technical, requiring subtle presentations and small flies. Egg patterns are highly effective right now, with fish feeding behind redds and in deeper pockets where egg drift collects. Pairing a peg egg with a midge or RS2 trailer is a consistently productive rig. Nymphing is the primary approach — think RS2s, Zebra Midges, Juju Baetis, and small baetis emergers. Depth control is everything at these flows. Streamer fishing is limited but can still move fish when fished slowly through deep holding water. Expect the best activity from midday through the warmest part of the afternoon. With clarity high, tippet size and stealth matter.
Dries
BWO Sparkle Dun #20–22, CDC Comparadun BWO #20–22, Griffith's Gnat #20–24, small midge dries #20–24
Nymphs
RS2 #20–22, Zebra Midge #20–22, Juju Baetis #18–20, Rainbow Warrior #20–22, Barr's BWO Emerger #20–22, Peg eggs (peach, apricot, orange), Glo Bugs #14–16
Streamers
Thin Mint #8–12, Slump Buster (olive/natural) #8–10, Baby Gonga #8–10
- •Prioritize slow, deep, consistent winter water.
- •Egg + midge trailers are extremely effective right now.
- •Fish deeper and smaller than you think.
- •Light tippet matters in low, clear conditions.
- •Midday is your best overall window for activity.
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