The Eagle River, a 60-mile freestone stream in Colorado's Vail Valley, originates near Tennessee Pass and flows northwest to join the Colorado River at Dotsero. This river offers diverse fly fishing opportunities across its upper, middle, and lower sections.

The upper stretches near Minturn are characterized by fast currents and pocket water, providing excellent habitat for brown trout. As the river progresses through Avon and Edwards, it widens and slows, supporting healthy brown and rainbow trout populations.

The lower section near Gypsum features deeper pools and runs, ideal for larger trout. Anglers can enjoy year-round fishing on the Eagle River, with prolific caddis hatches in late spring and early summer, and consistent midge and blue-winged olive activity during the colder months.

Eagle River Fly Fishing Report – August 22, 2025

The Eagle is in classic late-summer form: steady flows, clear water, and trout looking up. While the tourist crowds fade, the bugs keep doing their thing. This weekend you can expect strong morning hatches and increasingly fun afternoons as terrestrials take over.

If you’re hunting technical eats, the upper stretches near Minturn are prime. Want a shot at bigger browns? Work the canyon water downstream of Eagle where structure and shadow lines keep them happy.

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Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: ~425 CFS (Gypsum gauge)
• Water Temp: Mid-50s°F mornings, climbing to 62°F by late afternoon
• Air Temp: 60–85°F across the weekend
• Clarity: Clear to lightly stained below tributaries
• Best Times: 7 AM–11 AM for hatches; 1–3 PM for hopper/dropper rigs
• Crowds: Light to moderate — quieter above Edwards

Eagle River Hatch Chart

Flies to Try – Eagle River

Nymphs

• TDJ Sunken Trico – 20–22
• Sparkle Wing RS2 (gray) – 20–24
• Juju Baetis – 18–22
• Pat’s Rubber Legs (coffee/black) – 10–14
• Hare’s Ear (olive) – 16
• Two Bit Hooker (black) – 16

Dries

• CDC Biot Trico Spinner – 20–22
• Parachute Adams – 18–22
• Sparkle Dun PMD – 18–20
• Amy’s Ant – 14
• Black Beetle – 16
• Elk Hair Caddis – 16

Streamers

• Galloup’s Dungeon (natural)
• Baby Gonga (olive/brown)
• Thin Mint – 8–10
• Woolly Bugger (black/olive)

Tips for Fishing the Eagle River

• Seasonal Tip: Cover water. The Eagle rewards movement more than posting up.
• Dry Fly: Early morning PMDs and tricos are the ticket.
• Nymphing: Tight-line rigs shine in pocket water. Add a micro split shot to stay in the zone.
• Streamers: Early and late shadows hold aggressive browns — keep it natural in color.

Access Points

• Minturn Stretch – Clear water, active hatches, lighter crowds. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Edwards – Easy access, solid hopper/dropper action. ⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Gypsum – Bigger browns, mix of riffle/pool water. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Local Regulations & Notes

• Barbless hooks encouraged
• Respect private water stretches (especially around Edwards and Gypsum)
• Afternoon temps can climb — fish early to protect trout

FAQs on the Eagle River

Q: What’s the best section to fish right now?
A: Minturn to Edwards for hatches, Gypsum for bigger fish.

Q: Are hoppers working yet?
A: Yes — afternoons are prime for hopper/dropper rigs.

Q: Do I need a float to fish the Eagle?
A: No, but floats give you access to less-pressured water in canyon stretches.

Q: What tippet should I use?
A: 5X for nymphs, 6X for tricos and PMDs, 3–4X for hoppers/streamers.

Q: How pressured is it this weekend?
A: Lighter than July, but expect some company near Edwards.

Q: Is evening fishing worth it?
A: Yes — caddis keep fish looking up until dark.