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Roaring Fork River Fly Fishing Report – June 24th 2025

Updated: Jun 24


Guide Trip Report From Matt Fletcher | Colorado River Outfitters


If you’ve been waiting for the Roaring Fork to fire—this is it. According to CRO guide Matt Fletcher, “Fishing is absolutely on fire right now. We’re seeing consistent action from first light through the evening, with dry fly eats that’ll keep you on the water till dark.” Water conditions are prime, hatches are stacking, and trout are feeding with purpose.



Conditions Overview


  • Flows: Moderately dropping, ideal for floating.

  • Water Temps: Steady 52–62°F—perfect feeding range.

  • Clarity: Excellent, with the perfect hint of green.




Hatch Breakdown & Fly Selection


Morning: Midges & Attractors


Start the day fishing slow, deep water with a double nymph rig. Fish are sluggish early but still feeding subsurface.


  • Patterns: Zebra Midge (#20–22), Black Beauty, Juju Baetis, and small attractors like a Rainbow Warrior or Perdigon.

  • Pro Tip from Matt: “Get deep early. I’m fishing 7–9 feet under the indicator, with a small split shot to keep things in the strike zone.”



Midday: Caddis & Yellow Sallies


As temps rise, the river lights up with Caddis and Little Yellow Sally hatches—especially near fast edges, riffles, and pocket water.


  • Patterns: Elk Hair Caddis (#16–18), Stimulator (#14 yellow or olive), and yellow Sally nymphs like the Iron Sally.

  • Best Water: Inside bends, riffles with mid-depth chop, and shady banks.

  • Pro Tip: “Fish a dry-dropper with a buoyant Caddis dry and a Sally or Pheasant Tail dropper. Drift tight along banks and seams.”





Afternoon: PMD’s Take Over – It’s “Game On”


Once the PMD’s (Pale Morning Duns) start popping after noon, the Fork shifts into high gear.

Fish slide into riffles, drop-offs, and soft inside bends, actively rising and chasing.


  • Patterns: Parachute PMDs (#16–18), Comparaduns, Sparkle Duns (#16-18). PMD Barr’s Emerger (#16-18) Pheasant Tail (#16-18).

  • Presentation: Long leaders (10–12 ft), 5X tippet, and a slow, natural drift.

  • Pro Tip: “Look for subtle sips in shallow slow water—don’t overlook eddies or soft runs. That’s where the afternoon magic is.”


Final Take:



This was one of those “all phases of the day” kinds of outings. Whether you’re a nymph junkie, soft hackle swinger, or dry fly purist, the river had something for everyone. With bugs thick and trout feeding with intent, now’s the time to get out there and put in the hours.


Fish With Us


Want to experience a day like this for yourself? Book a guided trip with Matt Fletcher or any of the expert guides at Colorado River Outfitters. Whether you’re just starting out or chasing your next personal best on a dry fly, our team knows how to put you on fish and maximize your time on the water.


From personalized instruction to full-day float trips through Colorado’s most productive water, we’ve got the experience—and the river access—to make your day unforgettable.


👉 Give us a call or book online today!

970-236-1937


📸 Be sure to follow us on Instagram @colorado.river.outfitters for daily fishing reports, guide tips, and a glimpse into what’s biting right now.


Tight lines,

-The CRO Team


 
 
 

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