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Updated: 12/04/2025
The Eagle near Gypsum is running low and clear, settling into classic winter structure with softer seams and long, glassy glides. Week over week, fish have shifted into deeper holding lanes after a cold stretch tightened the feeding window. Midges dominate with the occasional baetis nymph still producing in the warmest part of the afternoon. The clarity is excellent which rewards careful approach and smaller tippet. Expect tight, technical presentations and patient winter drifts.
Listen to the Audio Overview
Conditions Summary
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- Flow: Low and steady for early winter
- Water Temp: Mid to upper 30s
- Air Temp: High 30s to low 40s
- Clarity: Very clear
- Crowds: Light to moderate
- Best Window: 11 am to 2 pm
- Fishing Type Focus: Nymphing, because low flows and cold water concentrate trout in deeper troughs where subtle midges and small baetis patterns excel.
Weather
Gypsum Weather
Expect frosty mornings, short midday warming, and a quick temperature drop once the canyon shadows fall back across the lower Eagle.
Top Flies in Your Box This Week
- Black Beauty 20 to 22
- Zebra Midge Red or Black 20 to 22
- RS2 Gray 20 to 22
- Barrs Emerger BWO 20
- WD40 Chocolate 20 to 22
- JuJu Midge Purple 20
- Sparkle Wing Baetis 20
- Two Bit Hooker Black 18
- Tailwater Sow Bug 18
- Small Pine Squirrel Leech 12
Pro Rig of the Week
Gypsum Low Flow Winter Sight Nymph Rig
Leader: 9 to 10 ft 5x fluoro
Top Fly: Zebra Midge Red 20
Dropper: RS2 Gray 22
Indicator: Yarn indicator for soft takes
Weight: One tiny split shot placed lightly above the knot
Target Water: Deep mid-channel slots, soft edges below riffles, and long flat glides with slow winter pace
Hatch Chart for December
| Hatch Type | Bugs You’ll See | Notes |
| Primary | Midges 20 to 24 | Most active on calm, cloudy afternoons |
| Secondary | Baetis 20 to 22 | Sporadic but still relevant mid-day |
| Tertiary | Winter Stones | Subsurface activity only |
Download the Hatch Chart
Access Points
Gypsum Ponds Access
Long glides and deeper shelves make for perfect winter nymphing with light rigs.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Red Dirt Creek Area
Clear water with defined winter slots and quieter angler pressure.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Dotsero Access
Broad water with classic Eagle structure, productive in low flow periods.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Wolcott Downstream Pull-offs
A mix of soft edges and mid-depth seams ideal for mid-day feeding windows.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Stop Here After the River
After fishing the lower Eagle, head to Eagle River Brewing in Gypsum. It has a relaxed local crowd, warm lighting, and the kind of small town energy that fits a winter session on the river. Order the Red Lane Amber and the smoked brisket sandwich. It is simple, hearty, and exactly right after a day spent working slow water and tiny flies.
Local Regulations and Notes
Flows remain low and stable
Icy edges form quickly in shaded stretches
Watch for anchor ice early mornings
FAQ
Q: Are dries possible right now?
A: Occasionally, during mid-day midge clusters in calm water.
Q: What tippet works best on the Eagle in winter?
A: 5x fluoro for most nymphing situations.
Q: Are streamers worth trying?
A: Only small leeches fished slow along deeper banks.
Q: Is the river crowded near Gypsum?
A: Light to moderate depending on weather.
Q: How long is the active feeding window?
A: Often 90 minutes to two hours mid-day.
Q: Do fish hold close to shore?
A: Yes, especially where slow shelves warm slightly in the sun.
Recommended Companion Article
Colorado Winter Trout Feeding Behavior in Clear, Low-Flow Rivers
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