The Slate River, located just north of Crested Butte, Colorado, offers some fantastic small-stream fly fishing for brown, rainbow, and brook trout. Known for its classic pocket water and stunning mountain views, the Slate River is ideal for anglers who enjoy both wade fishing and solitude. With fall in full swing, the river is running clear, and the trout are feeding aggressively ahead of the colder months.
October 2024 Fly Fishing Report: Slate River
Current Conditions
- Flow Rate: 18-25 cfs (near Baxter Gulch)
- Water Temperature: 48°F
- Clarity: Clear with occasional low-level silt after rain
- Best Times: Mid-morning to late afternoon
The Slate River near Crested Butte is putting on its autumn show, with crisp, clear water and the golden leaves framing every cast. Cooler water temps have the trout moving to deeper pockets and riffles, while brook and brown trout are aggressively feeding ahead of the winter slow-down. Conditions are prime for nymphing and streamer fishing, especially in the late morning through early afternoon when the sun is on the water. Expect a few good hatches, especially on overcast days, which can bring surface action to life.
source: Colorado Division of Natural Resources Flow Station Report Baxter Glutch.
Hatches & Recommended Flies
Nymphs
- Pheasant Tail (#16-18): Effective throughout the day, particularly in deeper riffles and runs.
- Hare’s Ear (#14-18): Great for imitating larger nymphs in slower pockets and tailouts.
- Zebra Midge (#18-22): Ideal for clear water and cooler temperatures when trout are focusing on small prey.
Dry Flies
- Blue-Winged Olive (#18-22): Emerging during overcast conditions, expect trout to be sipping these on the surface.
- Parachute Adams (#16-20): Works well in both fast and slow water, especially where fish are holding near the surface.
- Elk Hair Caddis (#14-16): Late fall caddis hatches still bring trout up, particularly in pocket water and riffles.
Streamers
- Mini Sculpzilla (#6-8): Ideal for targeting larger, more aggressive trout lurking in deeper pools and undercut banks.
- Olive Woolly Bugger (#6-8): Versatile streamer that can be stripped through both fast and slow water.
- Black Leech (#4-6): Works well in the low light of early morning or late afternoon, especially around shaded areas.
Fishing Tactics on the Slate River
- Pocket Water Fishing: Use nymphing techniques in the small pockets of fast-moving water to get deep quickly. Trout in these areas are opportunistic feeders and will strike fast.
- Dry-Dropper Setup: This tactic is perfect for covering a range of water depths. Start with a dry fly as your indicator and drop a nymph 18-24 inches below, focusing on medium-speed runs.
- Streamer Fishing: Larger trout are on the prowl, and streamers can trigger aggressive strikes. Cast near undercut banks, deeper pools, or structure and use a varied retrieve to mimic prey.
Access Points
- Slate River Road Access: Located just north of Crested Butte, this area provides easy wade access and classic pocket water. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned anglers looking to fish smaller water.
- Gothic Road: A beautiful stretch with great access, particularly in the fall when the leaves are changing. Best fished in the morning when fish are more active.
- Baxter Gulch Trailhead: A lesser-known but rewarding access point offering solitude and excellent trout fishing. The cooler water temps in this section make it great for targeting brook trout.
This October 2024 Slate River Fly Fishing Report brings you the latest on conditions, effective flies, and fishing tactics. Whether you’re chasing after rainbows or browns, the Slate River near Crested Butte is in prime condition this fall—so pack your gear and enjoy the crisp autumn days on the water!