Chasing Giants: Fall Tactics on the Roaring Fork River

It is October 23rd, and the Roaring Fork Valley is showing off. The colors are turning, the air has that crisp bite, and the fishing? Well, it is exactly how I like it. We are sitting at about 115 CFS below Maroon Creek, and while the water is low and slow, it is as clear as a gin martini. If you are looking for trophy trout, now is the time to quit making excuses and get on the water. I have been spending my mornings scouting the stretches from Aspen down toward Basalt, and those big rainbows and big browns are starting to get aggressive as they pack on weight for the winter. With the flows being this skinny, stealth is your best friend. You aren't going to be tossing massive streamers right in the middle of the run unless you want to spook every fish in the hole. Instead, we are leaning on tiny and shiny nymphs—size 18 to 24 midges and those reliable BWO patterns. If you see a rise, throw a Missing Link Caddis or a high-vis PMD; just keep your presentation delicate. I have been rotating my new Clackacraft drift boat through the upper sections, and there is nothing like the silence of a scenic float fishing trip when the canyon is this quiet. Whether you are using your own Sage fly fishing setup or testing out the latest gear from Hardy fly fishing, the key right now is patience. We are seeing some sporadic Caddis activity and those picky BWOs that make you work for every inch of line. If you are planning a trip to the Roaring Fork Valley, remember that the access points from Aspen, Basalt, Carbondale, and all the way down to Glenwood Springs are all holding fish. For those of you planning a bachelor or bachelorette party, skip the crowded bars. There is nothing like a unique Colorado adventure on a drift boat to start the celebration right. I have been guiding in this valley for over 30 years as Woody Kiehl, and I can tell you, the fish are in the deeper, cooler pockets right now. Bring a thermometer, check your water temps, and don't be afraid to change your fly if you aren't getting a look after ten minutes. Aspen area fly fishing is all about reading the water and adjusting to the mood of the river. Ready to put some line in the water? Book your guided trip with Aspen Angling Company today and let's go find you that fish of a lifetime.