KIRK WEBB WITH A "GATOR" ROARING FORK BROWN TROUT

Kickin' butt and taking names. That's how the fishing has been along the Roaring Fork lately. You might not be catching huge quantities of fish (though that's certainly possible) but the quality of the fish being caught is impressive. Large rainbows and browns are on the feed and in fact, one monster 23" inch rainbow was recently netted. There's no question that the hot spots along the Roaring Fork right now are from Carbondale down to Glenwood Springs. Wade fishers as well as those floating the river have been ranting and raving about the solid fishing. Don't get me wrong, you're still working for every fish being caught right now, but as long as you cover water, feed the fish some good flies, and know where the fish are holding, you'll have a great day on the water. Look for the fish to change their focus this month from Midges to larger insects that will include: Caddis Larva, Stonefly Nymphs, and Blue Wing Olive imitations.



CADDIS LARVA



STONEFLY NYMPH



BLUE WING OLIVE




Early and late in the day look for attractor patterns to be the most productive. A San Juan Worm trailed by a small #16-18 Beadhead Prince has been a deadly combo these times. As the day warms up midday look for fish to transition to shallower waters. When this happens a small #16 20 Incher trailed by a #16 Olive Electric Caddis is productive especially for actively feeding fish. Don't be shy to run and gun with midge larva and baetis nymphs either. The midges will be more effective at the beginning of the month while the baetis will really turn on as the month progresses. The upper river near Jaffe Park has certainly been good to those willing to hike through the snow and slush to access the river. Keep your flies on the smaller side (#16-22's) up here and relish in the sight fishing opportunities that are available. In fact, the only way to put some high numbers on the board up here is to strictly cover water and sight fish. There's no question that there is much less in the way of fishing pressure along the upper river. Dry fly fishing is slow, but picking up each day now. Count on some solid midge hatches in the afternoons and especially during the evening hours. April is typically the big kick-off to the BWO hatch, though at times fish will be undoubtedly be sipping these mayflies off the surface. It's time to dust off your gear and hit the river.

Written By Kirk Webb
Manager at Taylor Creek Fly Shop

www.taylorcreek.com

www.flycurrents.com