Roaring Fork River
Colorado Fly Fishing
Roaring Fork River
- •Deeper nymph rigs in pools
- •Pegged eggs with midge or baetis trailers
- •Tiny midge larvae (#20–24) in slow seams
- •Blue and olive streamers fished low-light and slow
- •Emergers are a winter staple
- •Small indicators and subtle takes
Midges lead the activity now, with steady subsurface feeding through the late morning and afternoon. Baetis are still showing on colder, cloud-covered days, and while surface eats are brief, they're possible in sheltered pockets. Reports also highlight drifting eggs as a significant food source as browns continue to spawn. Expect light, subtle takes — the Fork's clear, low water has trout feeding cautiously.
Detailed Report
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.
Dries
BWO Comparadun #20–22, Griffith's Gnat #20–24, Parachute Adams #18–20
Nymphs
RS2 #20–22, WD-40 #20–22, Zebra Midge #20–22, Juju Baetis #18–20, Barr's BWO Emerger #20–22, Eggs #16–20, BMW Foam Top Emerger #16–20, Bling Midge #18–22, Pat's Rubber Legs #16–20
Streamers
Thin Mint #8–12, Mini Dungeon (olive) #8–10, Slump Buster (natural) #8–10, Sculpin/Leech minis
- •Add just enough weight to tick bottom occasionally
- •Soft water edges hold most feeding fish right now
- •Eggs + small nymphs/emergers = key winter combo
- •Midday is consistently the best window
- •Expect very subtle takes
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