The Taylor River, flowing from high in the Rockies and through Taylor Park Reservoir near Crested Butte, offers some of the best tailwater fishing in Colorado. Known for its rainbow and brown trout, the river is famed for both its technical fishing sections and peaceful canyon waters. With autumn in full swing, the river’s changing colors and more predictable flows make it a great destination for anglers looking for both beauty and big fish.

Taylor River Near Crested Butte Fishing Report – October 2024

The Taylor River is dazzling anglers this October, with its crystal-clear flows around 154 CFS and water temps holding at a cool 52°F. This tailwater is famous for its selective but rewarding brown and rainbow trout, and autumn’s vivid foliage only adds to the experience. The trout here can be picky, especially below Taylor Park Dam, but the scenic views and occasional trophy-size fish make every cast worth it.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 154 CFS
• Water Temperature: 52°F
• Clarity: Crystal clear
• Best Times: Late morning to early afternoon

source: Colorado Division of Natural Resources Stream Report Taylor River

Top 3 Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Blue-Winged Olive (#18-22) – Perfect for overcast days when trout are sipping on small mayflies.
• Nymph: Mysis Shrimp (#16-18) – Highly effective in the tailwater sections, especially for targeting larger trout below the dam.
• Streamer: Sculpzilla (#6-8) – Swing through deeper pools and along structure for those big pre-spawn browns.
  

   

• Taylor River Hatch Chart

  Month	Primary Hatches	Effective Patterns
  March	Midges, Baetis (BWO)	Zebra Midges (#20-24), Blue Wing Olive (#18-22)
  April	Midges, Baetis (BWO), Caddis	Black Beauty (#18-22), Elk Hair Caddis (#16-18)
  May	BWOs, Caddis, Mysis Shrimp	Mysis Shrimp (#16-18), Pheasant Tail (#18-20)
  June	Caddis, PMDs, Golden Stoneflies	Elk Hair Caddis (#16), PMD Comparadun (#16-18), Pat’s Rubber Legs (#8-12)
  July	Yellow Sallies, PMDs, Caddis	Yellow Sally (#14-16), PMD Emergers (#18-20), LaFontaine’s Sparkle Caddis (#16)
  August	Tricos, Caddis, Terrestrials (Ants, Hoppers)	Trico Spinner (#22-24), Parachute Hopper (#10-12), Black Ant (#18)
  September	BWOs, Midges, Caddis	BWO Parachute (#18-22), Zebra Midge (#20-24), Elk Hair Caddis (#16)
  October	BWOs, Midges, Mysis Shrimp	Blue Wing Olive (#18-22), Mysis Shrimp (#16-18), Black Beauty (#20-22)
  November	Midges, BWOs	WD-40 (#20-24), BWO Emerger (#18-22)
  December - February	Midges	Griffith’s Gnat (#20-24), Zebra Midge (#20-24)

  
  
  

Tips for Fly Fishing on the Taylor

Seasonal Tip
As the pre-spawn season approaches, aggressive brown trout respond well to larger presentations, making it a prime time for streamers. Be mindful of potential spawning beds (redds) and avoid wading in shallow gravel areas to preserve fish populations.

Dry Fly
The Blue-Winged Olive hatch is active on cloudy days, especially in the slower runs. A small BWO dry fly (#18-22) can entice trout feeding on the surface, particularly in the afternoon.

Nymphing
The Mysis Shrimp is a top choice for tailwater nymphing below Taylor Dam, where trout rely on this protein-packed food source. Pair with a smaller Baetis nymph for a reliable two-fly rig in deeper pools.

Streamer Fishing
Large browns are on the move, so try an Olive or Black Sculpzilla in the deeper sections. Focus on pools and structure where these trout hide, using slow retrieves for maximum effect.

Access Points

Taylor Park Dam (Catch and Release Section)

• Description: Famous tailwater section with technical fishing and trophy-size trout.
• Why Fish Here: Known for challenging yet rewarding fly fishing opportunities.
• Location: [Google Maps link here]
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Upper Taylor Canyon

• Description: A scenic stretch with ample riffles, pools, and pocket water.
• Why Fish Here: Great for anglers seeking a mix of wade-friendly sections with fewer crowds.
• Location: [Google Maps link here]
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Almont

• Description: Located downstream, near where the Taylor meets the East River.
• Why Fish Here: Known for larger trout and prime for nymphing and streamers.
• Location: [Google Maps link here]
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

The Taylor River below Taylor Park Dam is a designated Catch and Release area, strictly regulated to protect its trophy trout population. Anglers should use only artificial flies and barbless hooks in this section. Additionally, be respectful of private lands along the river and use designated access points to ensure continued public access and conservation of this iconic fishery.