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The Frying Pan River, below Ruedi Reservoir, is a fantastic trout stream. Whether 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!
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Spring is gradually making its presence known on the Fryingpan River near Aspen. With flows currently around 164 CFS below Ruedi Reservoir, the river maintains clear conditions, offering anglers favorable opportunities. Recent midges and Blue Winged Olives hatches have been observed, particularly during warmer, overcast days.
Given the current conditions and active hatches, the river offers good fishing opportunities, especially during midday hours when insect activity peaks.
Conditions Summary
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- Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5 – Good fishing conditions with active hatches)
- Flow Rate: 164 CFS below Ruedi Reservoir
- Water Temperature: Approximately 42°F in mid to lower sections The Perfect Fly Store
- Air Temperature: Highs around 36°F, lows near 16°F
- Clarity: Clear
- Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
- Fishing Pressure: Moderate, with increased activity on weekends
- Wind: Mild in the mornings, with potential gusts in the afternoons
River Flow Chart
Source: USGS Monitoring Station 090804002USGS Water Data
Fryingpan River Hatch Chart
| Month | Primary Hatches | Effective Patterns |
|---|---|---|
| March | Midges, Blue Winged Olives | RS2 (#20–22), Zebra Midge (#20–24) |
| April | Blue Winged Olives, Midges | Barr’s Emerger (#18–20), Blue Wing Olive Parachute (#18–22) |
| May | Blue Winged Olives, Caddis | Elk Hair Caddis (#16–18), Pheasant Tail Nymph (#16–18) |
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Top 3 Flies for the Month
- Dry Fly: Blue Wing Olive Parachute (#18–22) – Effective during overcast afternoons in slower water sections.
- Nymph: Barr’s Emerger (#18–20) trailed by a Zebra Midge (#20–22) – Productive in deeper runs and riffles.
- Streamer: Sculpin Pattern (#6–8) in olive or black – Useful during periods of increased flow or lower light conditions.
Tips for Fly Fishing on the Fryingpan River
- Seasonal Tip: As water temperatures remain cold, trout are more active during the warmest parts of the day. Focus on deeper pools and slower runs where fish conserve energy.
- Dry Fly: Look for rising fish in the afternoons, especially during Blue Winged Olive hatches. Present flies upstream and allow a natural drift over feeding lanes.
- Nymphing: Utilize a double nymph rig with a heavier point fly and a smaller dropper. Adjust indicator depth to target fish holding near the bottom.
- Streamer Fishing: During early mornings or cloudy days, streamers can entice larger trout. Cast across and slightly downstream, retrieving with varied speeds.
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Access Points
Upper Fryingpan (Mile Marker 8 upstream to Ruedi Reservoir):
- Description: This stretch offers classic tailwater conditions with consistent flows and temperatures.
- Why Fish Here: Known for Mysis shrimp drifting from the reservoir, attracting larger trout.
- Location: Google Maps
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Middle Fryingpan (Mile Marker 4 to 8):
- Description: Features a mix of riffles, runs, and pools with ample public access.
- Why Fish Here: Diverse water types suitable for various techniques; less crowded than upper stretches.
- Location: Google Maps
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lower Fryingpan (Below Mile Marker 4):
- Description: Closer to Basalt, this section has wider, slower stretches with deeper pools.
- Why Fish Here: Accessible and offers opportunities for larger fish, especially during hatches.
- Location: Google Maps
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hot Spots
- Bend Pool: A deep bend located near Mile Marker 6, known for holding large trout, especially during Mysis shrimp releases.
- Baetis Bridge: Situated around Mile Marker 5, this area sees prolific Blue Winged Olive hatches, attracting surface-feeding trout.
- Toilet Bowl: Directly below Ruedi Dam, this spot is famous for its deep swirling waters and abundance of Mysis shrimp, drawing in sizable fish.National Water Prediction Service
Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights
Fishing Regulations:
- Artificial flies and lures only in certain sections.Norrik+1Roaring Fork Conservancy+1
- Catch-and-release encouraged to maintain fish populations.Dave Weller's Fly Fishing Blog
- Be aware of specific seasonal closures or restrictions.
Landowner Rights:
- Respect private property boundaries; fish only in public access areas or with landowner permission.
- Stay within high-water marks to avoid trespassing.
❓ FAQ on this Spot
1. Do I need to wade or float the Fryingpan River?
The Fryingpan is a wade-friendly tailwater. Floating isn’t permitted or practical due to its size and character. Most anglers walk and wade from the numerous pull-offs along Fryingpan Road.
2. What’s the best time of day to fish the Fryingpan in April?
Late morning to mid-afternoon offers the best window, as water temps rise slightly and hatches begin—especially midges and Blue Winged Olives. Cloudy days tend to produce better dry fly action.
3. What makes the upper Fryingpan near the dam so special?
Mysis shrimp flushed from Ruedi Reservoir create a unique food source, attracting trophy rainbows and browns that feed in gin-clear water. It's technical fishing, but the rewards can be massive.
