Roaring Fork River

The Roaring Fork has moved beyond the pre-runoff stage and is showing signs of true runoff. The water is dirty and visibility is 6” at best. You’ll find a little better clarity/visibility above Basalt, but not much. With more warm weather in the forecast, we don’t expect conditions to improve anytime soon. Persistent and patient anglers will still put trout in the net but until conditions improve, we recommend finding a different river to fish such as the Frying Pan or another tailwater. If you’re dead set on fishing the Fork, focus on the outer edges of the river with a heavy nymph rig or streamer. Large and messy patterns that contrast the water and flashy nymphs are needed to get the trout’s attention. Think Pat’s Rubber Legs, red Copper Johns, BH Pheasant Tails, Electric Caddis, Rainbow Warriors, Perdigons, purple Zebra Midges, Darth Baetis and Sparkle Pupas. Until flows drop and water clarity improves, we will postpone weekly report updates.