Frying Pan River Fishing Report — Roaring Fork Valley | Glenwood Springs Outdoors

Frying Pan River Fishing Report — Roaring Fork Valley

The Frying Pan River is one of Colorado's premier Gold Medal tailwaters — a 13-mile stretch of cold, clear water flowing from Ruedi Reservoir down to Basalt. Known for its large, selective trout and prolific midge and mayfly hatches, The Pan demands technical presentations and rewards patience.

The Pan is fishing exceptionally well right now. The flows increased this week to around 200cfs which is excellent for the fish. The increased flow allows the fish to spread out more and get more protection from wading angles as well as predatory birds.

The river is fishing well from the dam down through Basalt. It is worth exploring the full length of the river with Drakes, PMD's, Caddis, BWO's and midges all coming off.

Top Fly Patterns on the Frying Pan Right Now

• Green Drakes — the hatch is on, don't leave home without them. Fish are keying on these hard during the afternoon window.
• PMDs (Pale Morning Duns) — excellent during afternoon hatches in slower, flatter water sections
• Midges — always a reliable producer on the Pan, especially early morning and late evening
• Nymph rigs — dead-drift setups with a Pheasant Tail or Hare's Ear have been consistent throughout the day

If the higher flows make wading a bit more challenging in the narrow sections, just go down valley and explore the wider sections where the river can spread out. Also take a light rain jacket as we are approaching the monsoon season and you want to enjoy the hatches in the middle of heavy rain if the heavens open up.

Stop by Glenwood Springs Outdoors at 831 Grand Ave, Glenwood Springs, CO for the latest fly recommendations, current river conditions, and gear before your next trip to the Frying Pan. Our staff fishes these waters regularly and can point you in the right direction.