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Fishing Information

Roaring Fork - Carbondale to Glenwood Springs

COLORADO BASIN Fishing Report
Rating
3/5
Flow
418 cfs
Wind
9 mph
Temperature
37 °F
Low/High
32/42
Weather @COLORADO BASIN - Updated March 20, 2023 - 10:06am by OpenWeather

Current River Flow Updates

Latest update: 3/15/23 --

Flows at Basalt are 216 cfs. Flows at Glenwood Springs are 418 cfs. The Crystal has decreased to 89.5 cfs. Nymphing is a great approach this time of year. Small Stoneflies & eggs #12-14, Prince Nymphs, Jigged Nymphs #16-18 Rainbow Warriors #16-20 followed by a third smaller fly such as like Baetis & Midges in sizes #18-24.

Historical River Flow

River Information

The Roaring Fork is another one of Colorado's most famous freestone rivers. This major tributary of the Colorado River begins near the town of Aspen and runs hard for approximately 70 miles before it reaches the Colorado in Glenwood Springs. Fishing can be outstanding for the entire length of the river, offering anglers the opportunity to fish a variety of conditions as it grows in size heading towards the Colorado. The river is most often fished on foot, however does offer the option to float fish all 12 months of the year, on most years. Most of the floating takes place from Basalt to Glenwood Springs, while most of the wading takes place from Aspen to Basalt. Hatches are abundant on the Roaring Fork and the fish can grow quite large and powerful. This river should definitely be on any angler's list when visiting the areas of Aspen, Basalt, Carbondale or Glenwood Springs.

Seasonal Conditions

The Roaring Fork can be fished year round, however, like many rivers in Colorado, can really shine during the months of March through November. Stoneflies are abundant in the river so fishing some sort of Stonefly nymph (Rubberlegs, Stone Bomb, 20 Incher) followed by a Mayfly or Caddis nymph is usually effective the majority of the year. By summertime, the Mayflies, Stoneflies and Caddis become very active and provide excellent dry fly fishing opportunities as long as you match the hatch. Terrestrial patterns will also take fish during the Summer and into the Fall. Streamers can be fished effectively from Spring through Fall.

RECOMMENDED FLIES

Winter/Spring: Midges, Baetis

Summer: Mayflies (PMD, Red Quills, Green Drakes) , Stoneflies (Salmonflies, Golden Stones, Yellow Sallies), Caddis, Terrestrials, General "Attractor" Dries, Streamers.

Fall: Mayflies (primarily Baetis), Midges, some Caddis, Streamers

Additional River Information

Roaring Fork River at Glenwood Springs

COLORADO BASIN River Gauge View Detailed Information

  • Flow 418 cfs
  • Wind 9 mph
  • Temp 37 °F
  • High/Low 32/42

River access

Accessing the Roaring Fork is very easy. Public access exists regularly from Aspen clear down to Glenwood Springs. Highway 82 runs the length of the river and anglers will find considerable access throughout much of this route. Fishing access around Carbondale and Basalt can be , to find and quite productive.

One item to note- While a very wadable river, there is certainly no shortage of moss covered, bowling ball sized rocks covering the streambed. Anglers should wade with caution when learning the river.

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