Upper Roaring Fork Fishing Report — August 8, 2026

The Upper Roaring Fork continues to fish really well, especially from Basalt upstream toward Aspen. While a lot of the attention right now is focused on the Fryingpan coming up and what that means for the lower river, the upper Roaring Fork has continued to provide solid fishing opportunities.

We've been seeing great results on hopper-dropper setups, which have been a consistent way to find fish throughout the upper river. With conditions changing quickly across the valley, the upper Roaring Fork remains one of the more reliable options right now. As always, pay attention to water temperatures and adjust your approach as conditions change throughout the day.

The biggest story this week is still the increase in Fryingpan flows, but we'll be watching to see how that ultimately affects the entire Roaring Fork system.

What's Hatching on the Upper Roaring Fork Right Now

The upper river has been producing across multiple hatches. Here are five bugs to have in your box this week:

• Chubby Chernobyl (Size 8–12) — August is prime hopper season and the Chubby Chernobyl is the go-to attractor on the upper Roaring Fork. Fish it with a nymph dropper for a deadly combo that's been producing all day. Shop Chubby Chernobyl →
• CDC Pheasant Tail (Size 16–18) — When fish are being selective, a CDC Pheasant Tail dropped below your dry fly is hard to beat. It's been a consistent producer on the upper river between hatches. Shop CDC Pheasant Tail →
• Tricos (Size 18–22) — Early morning Trico spinner falls can bring fish up in the slower pools and flats. Get there early and fish a Trico Comparadun or Clear Wing Spinner. Shop Trico Comparadun →
• Blue Wing Olives (Size 18–22) — BWOs are a reliable fallback on overcast days and in the cooler morning hours. Fish the slower seams with an RS2 or BWO Comparadun. Shop BWO Comparadun →
• Midges (Size 20–24) — When fish get selective between hatches, a Zebra Midge dropped below your dry fly can save the day. Always worth having a few in your box. Shop Zebra Midge →

If you're heading out, stop by Glenwood Springs Outdoors at 831 Grand Ave, Glenwood Springs for the latest information on flies, rigs, river flows, and where we're seeing the best fishing.