Taylor River - Below Taylor Park Reservoir - Colorado
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions
Taylor River – Below Taylor Park Reservoir - Water Flow Chart
Taylor River – Below Taylor Park Reservoir - Weather report & radar
Taylor River – Below Taylor Park Reservoir - General hatch chart
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Midges | Afternoon | 20-22 | Zebra Midge |
| Scuds | All day | 16-20 | Orange Scud | |
| February | Midges | Afternoon | 20-22 | Black Beauty |
| BWO | Afternoon | 20-22 | Parachute BWO | |
| March | BWO | Afternoon | 18-20 | BWO Emerger |
| Midges | All day | 20-22 | Ruby Midge | |
| April | BWO | Afternoon | 18-20 | RS2 |
| Midges | All day | 20-22 | Mercury Midge | |
| May | Caddis | Evening | 14-18 | Elk Hair Caddis |
| Golden Stoneflies | All day | 8-10 | Golden Stonefly Nymph | |
| June | Golden Stoneflies | Evening | 8-10 | Golden Stonefly Adult |
| Green Drakes | Afternoon | 10-12 | Green Drake Dun | |
| July | PMDS | Afternoon | 16-18 | Parachute PMD |
| Caddis | Evening | 14-18 | X-Caddis | |
| August | Hoppers | Afternoon | 6-10 | Parachute Hopper |
| Tricos | Morning | 20-24 | Trico Spinner | |
| September | Hoppers | Afternoon | 6-10 | Chubby Chernobyl |
| Midges | All day | 20-22 | Disco Midge | |
| October | BWO | Afternoon | 18-22 | Pheasant Tail |
| Midges | All day | 20-22 | Griffith’s Gnat | |
| November | Midges | All day | 20-22 | WD-40 |
| Scuds | Morning | 16-20 | Scud | |
| December | Midges | Afternoon | 20-22 | Palomino Midge |
| Scuds | All day | 16-20 | Orange Scud |
Taylor River – Below Taylor Park Reservoir Access Points
- Lodge at Taylor Park: Situated at the reservoir’s outlet, the lodge provides a convenient fishing spot with amenities.
- Taylor River Road: Numerous pull-off spots along this road offer direct access to the river.
- Dorchester Campground: This campground presents fishing access with excellent surroundings. However, it’s opened seasonally.
- Five Mile Bridge: Here, the river slows, providing an excellent spot for fly fishing.
- Wildwood Creek Confluence: Meeting point of Wildwood Creek and Taylor River, known for its diverse fish population.
Taylor River – Below Taylor Park Reservoir Fishing Spots
The Taylor River, below the Taylor Park Reservoir, is a fly-fishing paradise. Here are the best spots to cast your line:
- Almont: This area, where the Taylor River merges with the East River to form the Gunnison River, is known for its unrivaled trout fishing.
- Wildwood Canyon: The insects in this section provide ample food supply, attracting numerous fish. Remember to adhere to the “catch and release” rule here.
- The Catch and Release Section below Taylor Reservoir Dam: Though challenging due to its catch-and-release regulations and the large size of trout, it is a popular spot for more experienced fly-fishers.
Don’t forget to check for specific fishing regulations that apply to each area. They’re implemented to maintain the health of the fish population and ensure everyone has a fair chance at a great fishing experience.
Taylor River – Below Taylor Park Reservoir Local Fish Species
- Brown Trout: This species dominates the Taylor River, especially the stretch below Taylor Park Reservoir and is a favorite among fly fishermen due to its challenging fight and beautiful colors.
- Rainbow Trout: Present throughout the river, these trout are popular with fly fishers due to their sporty nature and vibrant colors.
- Cutthroat Trout: A western native, these trout are known for their distinctive red throat slash. They may be less common than others, but they are a coveted catch.
- Brook Trout: These small, vibrantly colored fish are abundant and easy to catch, making them a favorite for novice fly fishers.
- Lake Trout: These large, deep-water trout are often targeted in the reservoir but can also be found in the river on occasion.
- Kokanee Salmon: Although not native to Colorado, these salmon are stocked in several local rivers including the Taylor. They provide an exciting fishery during their fall spawning run.
- Mountain Whitefish: A native species to Colorado, these trout-like fish are often overlooked by anglers but can provide an exciting catch.
- Arctic Grayling: While not as common as the other species, Arctic Grayling can be found in the Taylor River, particularly in the higher elevation areas. These fish with their signature high dorsal fin are a special treat for fly anglers.
About the Taylor River – Below Taylor Park Reservoir
The Taylor River, snugly tucked beneath the majestic Taylor Park Reservoir, is a natural spectacle that brims with history and natural allure. A tributary of the Gunnison River, the Taylor River started its journey well before man made its mark in Colorado.
Flowing through the Crystal Creek and Lottis Creek, the river has been an incredible source of Trout, attracting anglers from around the world. The area also became a hub of mining operations during the late 19th century.
Adjacent to the Taylor River is the extraordinary Taylor Park Reservoir. The reservoir’s construction in 1937 has added to the river’s appeal, offering panoramic views and water-based recreational activities.
- The Taylor River is known for its rich trout fishing spots.
- The River’s surroundings nurture diverse wildlife and plant life.
- The history entrenched within the river’s path is ripe for exploration and enjoyment.
This enchanting river has something to offer every visitor, from the history lover to the outdoor adventurer.
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