East River Fly Fishing Report - Fly Fishing Near Crested Butte

East River Fly Fishing Report

The East River, flowing from Emerald Lake through Crested Butte, offers some of the best fly fishing in Colorado. This freestone stream is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow, brown, brook trout, and Kokanee salmon, making it a top destination for dry fly fishing. The river is particularly famous for its autumn fishing, when Kokanee salmon migrate upriver, and trout eagerly feed on their eggs. The Roaring Judy Fish Hatchery section provides public access, and the nearby scenery of Crested Butte only enhances the fishing experience.

East River Near Crested Butte Fishing Report – October 2024

The East River near Crested Butte is in fantastic shape this October. With clear, cool flows at around 100 CFS, the river is welcoming both the Kokanee salmon run and big, hungry brown trout. The scenery is breathtaking, with vibrant fall foliage lining the banks, and anglers are treated to the sight of Kokanee making their way upstream—a sight that also brings in predatory browns, making for thrilling fishing opportunities.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 100 CFS
• Water Temperature: 50°F
• Clarity: Clear
• Best Times: Late morning to early afternoon

Source: Colorado Division of Natural Resources River Station Flow Report

Top 3 Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Blue-Winged Olive (#18-22) – Effective during afternoon hatches, especially in slower sections of the river.
• Nymph: Egg Pattern (#10-12) – A great choice to imitate salmon eggs, drawing both trout and Kokanee.
• Streamer: Sculpzilla (#6-8) – Use in deeper pools and near structure for aggressive trout strikes.

East River Hatch Chart

Tips for Fly Fishing on the East River

Seasonal Tip
The Kokanee salmon run has brought increased fish activity to the East River. With salmon spawning, use egg patterns to draw in hungry browns and rainbows waiting below for a meal.

Dry Fly
Blue Wing Olives hatch in the afternoons, particularly on overcast days. A small BWO in sizes #18-22 can attract rising trout in slower currents.

Nymphing
Egg patterns and small nymphs are highly effective with spawning Kokanee. Drifting an egg pattern near schools of salmon increases your chances of finding larger browns.

Streamer Fishing
Big trout are on the prowl this season, making streamers like Sculpzillas a productive choice. Fish near banks, structure, or in deeper pools for the best results.

Access Points

Roaring Judy Fish Hatchery Access

• Description: Located near the hatchery, offering great viewing of the salmon run.
• Why Fish Here: Known for good egg pattern action and targeting pre-spawn browns.
• Location: [Google Maps link here]
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Almont

• Description: A scenic section with a mix of riffles and pools that hold both trout and Kokanee.
• Why Fish Here: Great for nymphing and egg patterns, especially in deeper pools.
• Location: [Google Maps link here]
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Gothic Road Access

• Description: Offers easy walk-in access with productive riffles and runs.
• Why Fish Here: Ideal for nymphing and dry flies during midday hatches.
• Location: [Google Maps link here]
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

Most of the East River near Crested Butte has public access, particularly around the hatchery and Almont. However, please respect private property along some river stretches, and follow designated access points. During the Kokanee run, handle trout and salmon gently, especially near spawning areas.