Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Roaring Fork - Aspen - Colorado

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Midday #22-26 Black Beauty, Frenchie, Zebra Midge
February Midges, Blue Winged Olive Midday #18-22 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge, RS2
March Blue Winged Olive, Midges Midday #18-22 RS2, Black Beauty, Pheasant tail nymph
April Blue Winged Olive, Caddis Afternoon and Evening #16-20 Elk Hair Caddis, Adams Dry Fly, Pheasant tail nymph
May Caddis, Stonefly Afternoon and Evening #12-16 Elk Hair Caddis, Stimulator, Pat's Rubber Legs
June Green Drake, Stonefly Afternoon and Evening #10-14 Humpy, Pat's Rubber Legs, Hare's Ear Nymph
July Pale Morning Dun, Caddis Morning and Evening #16-20 Parachute Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Pheasant tail nymph
August Pale Morning Dun, Trico Morning and Evening #18-22 Parachute Adams, Trico Spinner, Zebra Midge
September Blue Winged Olive, Trico Morning and Evening #16-22 Parachute Adams, Trico Spinner, Pheasant tail nymph
October Blue Winged Olive, Midges Midday #18-22 RS2, Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
November Midges, Blue Winged Olive Midday #20-24 Black Beauty, RS2, Zebra Midge
December Midges Midday #22-26 Zebra Midge, Black Beauty, Frenchie

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

Fly fishing at the Roaring Fork – Aspen provides an incomparable experience with a variety of amazing spots. Popular spots include:

  • Frying Pan River: World-renowned for trout fly fishing, especially below Ruedi Reservoir’s tailwater.
  • Lower Roaring Fork: Provides excellent fishing opportunities year-round, particularly for large trout.
  • Upper Roaring Fork: This area yields great catches in spring and early summer with incredible scenery.
  • Gold Medal Waters: A 14-mile stretch between Basalt and Carbondale, Gold Medal Waters is striking under the backdrop of Mount Sopris.
  • The Confluence: The joining point of the Frying Pan and Roaring Fork Rivers creates a variety of fishing conditions.

These scenic and rewarding locations invites anglers of all abilities, especially if they’re in pursuit of trout.

Best Access Points

Considered a prime location for fly fishing, the Roaring Fork River in Aspen offers several spectacular access points for anglers.

Here’s a rundown of the best access points:

  • Lower Roaring Fork: This is accessible from Glenwood Springs to Carbondale, ideal for float fishing and wading.
  • Carbondale to Basalt: This stretch requires a bit more skill due to faster currents but rewards with trophy-sized trout.
  • The Gold Medal Waters: Located near Basalt, this cutthroat prime habitat has a pullout allowing convenient access.
  • Jaffe Park: A fantastic public access point near Old Snowmass. It’s perfect for wading.
  • Rio Grande Trail: The 42-mile trail follows the Roaring Fork River, with numerous access points for wading and sights of exceptional scenery.
Note that some parts of the river are only accessible with permission from private landowners, so be sure to respect all local regulations and rules.

Local Fish

  • Rainbow Trout: Known for their distinct coloring and aggressive behavior, Rainbow Trout are highly sought after by fly fishermen.
  • Brown Trout: Recognizable by the dark spots on its back, the Brown Trout is a challenging catch, making it popular for sport fishermen.
  • Brook Trout: This fish is native to the Roaring Fork and known for their striking colors and smaller size. They are perfect for fly fishing enthusiasts looking for a fun catch.
  • Cutthroat Trout: Named for the red streaks under its jaw, the Cutthroat Trout is both a local and tourist favorite.
  • Whitefish: Although not as colorful as some trout species, the Whitefish is still a favorite due to its fight and abundance.
  • Pike: While often overlooked, Pike offer a thrilling fly fishing experience due to their large size and aggressive behavior.
  • Golden Trout: The Roaring Fork is one of the few places to catch this elusive species. Its beautiful gold color makes it a prized catch.
  • Greenback Cutthroat Trout: Although they are rare, catching a Greenback Cutthroat Trout is a highlight for any fly fisherman due to their beautiful coloration and rarity.

About The River

Often referred to as the Heart of the Rockies, Roaring Fork – Aspen brims with a rich history and stunning natural splendor. Nestled in Colorado, Aspen’s Roaring Fork Valley earned its name from the Roaring Fork River, a large tributary of the Colorado River, famous for its swift currents.

Founded as a mining town during the Colorado Silver Boom, in the late 19th-century, Aspen rapidly grew popular among thrill-seekers and adventurers. Post the collapse of the silver market, Aspen found new life as a ski resort town in the mid-20th century.

  • Notable development includes the establishment of Aspen Mountain (Ajax), which has been providing world-renowned skiing since 1946.
  • An annual must-attend event is the X Games Aspen, hosted at Buttermilk Mountain, adding action sports to Roaring Fork’s rich history.
  • The Valley’s cultural side shines with the Aspen Music Festival and School, which attracts students and musicians globally.

Today, the Roaring Fork Valley serves as a favored destination for adventure, music, and nature lovers.

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