Fishing Outlook & Conditions
Temp:
65°
Water Temp:
50
RIGS Fly Shops & Guide Service's Tip of the Week
East Portal Road is open! Exciting news for anglers: East Portal Road has reopened, marking the beginning of fishing season in the Black Canyon and below. The Bureau of Reclamation has started the release from Crystal Dam. Keep an eye on flows and stay tuned for an incredible summer. During the day, Blue-Winged Olives (BWO) have been consistently hatching, adding to the allure of the fishing experience. Although we've noticed some small stoneflies fluttering about, the fish aren't showing much interest in surface activity at the moment. Fortunately, nymphing has proven highly effective. Using BWO emergers along with Orange Scuds has proven to be productive. The rainbows seem to be done spawning, it is time to switch from Egg to Worm patterns.
Directions open in app
Water Flow Data
Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby
RIGS Fly Shop & Guide Service5-Day Outlook as of 5/15/24
East Portal Road is open and its time to hit the Black Canyon. The weather is looking great with some wind but sunny warm days. Keep an eye out for potential rain and thunderstorms. And check flows before you go. The Crystal Dam release is here.
Techniques & Tips as of 5/15/24
We are still finding the most success with nymphing techniques. Stay tuned for the Salmon Fly hatch and the dry fly fishing the Gunnison is known for.
Local Species Available Spring to Early Winter
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Rainbow & Brown trout
RIGS Fly Shops & Guide Service's Recommended Fly Patterns
"Must-have" fly fishing patterns in descending order of importance:
Name: | Colors: | Size(s): |
---|---|---|
RS2 | N/A | |
CDC Loopwing Quill Emerger | N/A | |
Lightning Bug | N/A | |
Flashback Baetis Nymph | N/A | |
Vernille San Juan Worm | N/A | |
Flashback Scud Wet Hare's Ear | Orange |
RIGS Fly Shops & Guide Service's Recommended Gear
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Best Leader:
Super Strong Plus Leaders
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Best Tippet:
SuperStrong Plus Tippet in 30- and 100-meter spools
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Best Fly Fishing Rod:
5-Weight 9' Fly Rod
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Best Floating Fly Line:
WF Trout Fly Line
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Best Sinking Fly Line:
Bank Shot Sink Tip Fly Line