Winter Fly Fishing on the Fryingpan River: Tips and Techniques

The Frying Pan River, below Ruedi Reservoir, is in fantastic shape this October. The river is flowing at a smooth 195 cfs, and the water is clear, cool, and brimming with trout that are keyed in on midges, BWOs, and the famous Mysis shrimp. As the hatches roll in waves, trout are happily rising to dry flies or gobbling nymphs in deeper runs. Whether you’re fishing the upper river near the dam or exploring the lower stretches, you’re in for an exciting day of technical but rewarding fishing. Don’t forget those streamers—the browns are bulking up before the winter slowdown!

Listen to the podcast!

The Fryingpan River in winter is a technical angler’s paradise—or nightmare, depending on how much you like tiny flies and spooky trout. As a year-round tailwater, this river rarely freezes over, keeping the fish active and well-fed even in the dead of winter. But don’t expect an easy day—these fish have PhDs in fly rejection.

Flows are low and clear, meaning stealth, long leaders, and perfect drifts are mandatory. Midges and Baetis are the main course, but the famous Mysis shrimp hatch below the dam keeps big fish fat and happy. Expect solid nymphing action, occasional dry fly opportunities, and the possibility of hooking a monster rainbow if you play your cards right.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 80-100 CFS (low, but normal for winter)
• Water Temperature: 38-42°F
• Clarity: Gin-clear
• Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
• Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5 – Consistently one of the best winter fisheries in Colorado. we want to say 5, but ice, ice baby. Watch out for shelf ice and ice flows.)

River Flow Chart

Fryingpan River Hatch Chart

Top 3 Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Griffith’s Gnat (#20-22) – For calm afternoons when midges cluster in slow eddies.
• Nymph: Mysis Shrimp (#16-18) – The biggest meal ticket on this river.
• Streamer: Black Leech (#8-10) – A dead-drifted leech can move a bigger fish.

Tips for Fly Fishing the Fryingpan River

Seasonal Tip

With low flows and ultra-clear water, stealth is everything—use long leaders, 6X-7X tippet, and precise drifts.

Dry Fly

A few midges and Baetis may bring up risers, but most fish will be feeding subsurface.

Nymphing

Double-nymph rigs with a midge and a Mysis shrimp are the go-to winter setup. Keep your drift natural, and adjust weight to stay in the feeding lane.

Streamer Fishing

The big fish are still eating, but they won’t chase far—try dead-drifting a leech or small sculpin near structure.

Access Points

Below Ruedi Dam (Gold Medal Water)

• Description: The most famous stretch with big trout and steady flows.
• Why Fish Here: Consistent hatches, large fish, and year-round opportunities.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Baetis Bridge Area

• Description: Less pressured water with slower pools and deep runs.
• Why Fish Here: Perfect for winter nymphing with smaller flies.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rock Bottom Ranch Section

• Description: More remote, with larger holding water for bigger fish.
• Why Fish Here: Best chance for a large brown or rainbow outside the dam section.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

• Artificial flies and lures only—no bait fishing.
• Private property exists downstream—look for posted signs and riverbank fences.
• Catch-and-release encouraged—this is one of the most famous trout fisheries in the country.
• Winter Caution: Snowy trails and icy riverbanks can make wading tricky—bring studs and a wading staff.

If you’re looking for one of the most technical and rewarding winter fisheries in Colorado, the Fryingpan River is hard to beat. Just bring your A-game, expect selective fish, and don’t be surprised if a 24-inch rainbow gives you the slip.