Frying Pan River Fishing Report — Spring Fly Fishing Update
If you've been looking for consistent trout fishing in Colorado right now, the Fryingpan River continues to produce quality fish and steady action from top to bottom. The flows have created great conditions for both nymphing and dry fly fishing, and anglers willing to switch techniques throughout the day are finding success.
At Glenwood Springs Outdoors, we've been spending a lot of time on the Pan lately and wanted to give you a current fishing report along with the flies that are working best.y
Frying Pan River Fishing Conditions
The river has been fishing consistently well, especially in the upper stretches near the Toilet Bowl and throughout the middle sections below the dam. Water clarity has stayed good, temperatures have remained stable, and fish are actively feeding throughout the day.
Early mornings have been productive with subsurface patterns, while afternoons have offered solid blue wing olive hatches and opportunities to throw dries. If you're planning a fly fishing trip to the Frying Pan River, now is a great time to get on the water before runoff conditions begin impacting nearby freestone rivers.
Best Flies for the Frying Pan River Right Now
Mysis Shrimp and RS2 Combo
The Toilet Bowl has been fishing exactly how you'd expect this time of year. Mysis shrimp patterns continue to produce fish consistently, especially when paired with a small RS2 dropper. This setup has been especially effective for targeting larger rainbow trout holding in deeper runs and current seams.
Best Dry Flies on the Frying Pan River
Farther downriver, we found fish actively feeding on blue wing olive mayflies throughout the afternoon. The best dry flies for us were:
- Extended Body BWO – Size 18
- Purple Haze – Size 18
Both patterns brought consistent eats during the hatch, especially during cloudy periods and slower slick water sections. Dry fly fishing on the Frying Pan can change quickly, so carrying multiple BWO variations in smaller sizes is always a good idea this time of year.
Best Nymphs for the Frying Pan River
Subsurface fishing has remained extremely productive throughout the river. Some of the top-producing flies lately include:
- Small Juju Baetis
- Zebra Midges
- RS2s
- Mysis Shrimp Patterns
Fishing these flies under an indicator with light tippet has been the key to staying connected with fish throughout the day.
Planning a Frying Pan River Fly Fishing Trip
The Frying pan River remains one of the best tailwater fisheries in Colorado, offering year-round opportunities at quality trout. Whether you're targeting big rainbows near the dam or looking for consistent dry fly action downstream, the river is fishing well right now.
Before heading out, stop by Glenwood Springs Outdoors for the latest river conditions, recommended fly patterns, and local fishing advice. Our shop carries a huge selection of Frying Pan River flies and gear to help get you dialed in before your trip.
Stop by Glenwood Springs Outdoors
Located in the heart of the Roaring Fork Valley, Glenwood Springs Outdoors is your local source for fly fishing reports, flies, guided trips, and gear for the Frying Pan, Roaring Fork, Colorado, Crystal, and Eagle Rivers. If you're planning to fish the Frying Pan River this season, swing by the shop and we'll help get you lined up with everything you need for a successful day on the water.
Trent Jones
Shop Manager / Head Guide
970-485-9944
Glenwood Springs Outdoors