Quick Info
Designation: Gold Medal Water. Best fish: Rainbow and brown trout, some 20+ inches. Best seasons: Spring (March-May), Fall (Sept-Nov). Key flies: Midges, BWOs, Pale Morning Duns. Access: Highway 82 pullouts and public access points. Regulations: Catch and release, artificial flies/lures only on tailwater section.
The Frying Pan River is one of Colorado's premier fly fishing destinations. The tailwater section below Ruedi Dam maintains consistent cold temperatures year-round, producing large, healthy trout and reliable hatches even in winter.
The Tailwater Section
Dam to Basalt
The 14 miles from Ruedi Dam to Basalt is the primary fishing water. Cold, clear water from the dam bottom creates ideal trout habitat. Fish average 14-18 inches with many larger specimens.
Regulations
Catch and release only. Artificial flies and lures only. Barbless hooks recommended. Check current CPW regulations before fishing.
Access Points
Multiple pullouts along Frying Pan Road provide river access. Popular spots can be crowded during prime times. Walk up or downstream from pullouts to find less pressured water.
Hatches & Flies
Year-Round: Midges
Midges hatch consistently throughout the year. Sizes 18-24 in black, gray, and olive. Essential patterns for winter fishing.
Spring & Fall: Blue-Winged Olives
BWO hatches bring fish to the surface during cloudy, drizzly days. Sizes 18-22. Some of the best dry fly fishing.
Summer: Pale Morning Duns
PMD hatches in June-July offer excellent dry fly opportunities. Green Drakes also appear briefly.
Key Patterns
RS2, Mercury Midge, Juju Baetis, Pheasant Tail, Sparkle Dun, CDC Comparadun, San Juan Worm.
Best Times to Fish
Spring (March-May)
Excellent BWO hatches. Pre-runoff conditions offer some of the year's best fishing. Fewer crowds than summer.
Fall (September-November)
Many anglers' favorite season. BWO hatches return, fish are actively feeding before winter. Beautiful foliage.
Winter
Challenging but rewarding. Midge fishing in cold conditions. Fewer anglers, fish still active in tailwater.
Summer
Good fishing but higher pressure. Early morning and evening best. PMD hatches provide dry fly action.
Guides & Shops
Frying Pan Anglers: Full-service fly shop in Basalt with guides, rentals, and current conditions.
Taylor Creek Fly Shop: Aspen-based shop with Frying Pan expertise.
Guided trips recommended for first visits. Local knowledge of hatches and access points makes a significant difference.
Tips
Go early or late. Popular access points get crowded. Dawn and dusk fishing reduces pressure.
Fish small. Sizes 20-24 are common. Light tippet (5X-7X) necessary for wary fish.
Watch your backcast. Willows and brush line much of the river. Roll casts often necessary.
Respect private property. Some sections border private land. Stay in the river or on public access points.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Frying Pan good for beginners?
Challenging but possible. The fish are educated and conditions are technical. A guide helps significantly for first-timers.
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes. Colorado fishing license required. Available online from CPW or at local fly shops.
Can I fish in winter?
Yes. The tailwater stays fishable year-round. Midge fishing can be excellent on warmer winter days.
How big are the fish?
Average 14-18 inches. 20+ inch fish are caught regularly. Some fish over 24 inches.