Frying Pan River
FishableColorado
Current Conditions
The Frying Pan River is running at 43.4 CFS — fishable but higher than ideal. Nymph rigs will outfish dries today. Streamers may produce.
Last updated: Mar 30, 2026, 2:15 AM from USGS gauge 09080400 (Frying Pan River near Ruedi)
7-Day Flow Trend
Flow thresholds: Optimal 80–120 CFS | Fishable to 200 CFS | Marginal to 350 CFS
About the Frying Pan River
The Frying Pan below Ruedi Reservoir is Colorado's most famous tailwater. Gold Medal water with incredible midge and mayfly hatches that produce trophy trout year-round. The technical challenge and scenic beauty make it a bucket-list destination.
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Midge Griffith's Gnat #20-24 | ||||||||||||
Blue-Winged Olive BWO Parachute #18-22 | ||||||||||||
Pale Morning Dun PMD Sparkle Dun #16-18 | ||||||||||||
Green Drake Green Drake Dun #10-12 | ||||||||||||
Caddis Elk Hair Caddis #16 |
Active Hatches — March
Patterns: Griffith's Gnat #20-24, Zebra Midge #18-22, Mercury Midge #20
Patterns: BWO Parachute #18-22, Sparkle Dun #20, RS2 #20-22
River Sections
Ruedi Dam to Basalt
wade access43.4 CFS
Gold Medal tailwater with trophy-class trout. Technical fishing with small flies. Wade-only access.
Guides on the Frying Pan River(6)
These fishing guides list the Frying Pan River as one of their home waters.
Aspen Flyfishing Guide Service
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen Trout Guides
Aspen, Colorado
Crystal Fly Shop
Carbondale, Colorado
Frying Pan Anglers
Basalt, Colorado
Roaring Fork Anglers – Alpine Angling
Glenwood Springs, Carbondale, Colorado
Taylor Creek Fly Shop
Basalt, Colorado
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to fish the Frying Pan River?+
The Frying Pan River fishes well from spring through fall. Peak dry fly season is typically June through September. The best hatches occur during summer months with PMDs and caddis. Fall brings excellent streamer fishing and fewer crowds.
What flies work on the Frying Pan River in March?+
In March, the Frying Pan River sees Midge, Blue-Winged Olive activity. Top patterns include Griffith's Gnat #20-24, BWO Parachute #18-22. Always carry a selection of nymphs as well.
How many fishing guides operate on the Frying Pan River?+
Outguided lists 6 fishing guides who operate on the Frying Pan River. These guides offer local knowledge of hatches, access points, and current conditions that can significantly improve your experience.
What is the current flow on the Frying Pan River?+
The Frying Pan River's flow data is updated every 30 minutes from USGS gauge stations. Check the top of this page for current CFS readings, fishability status, and a 7-day flow trend chart. Optimal fishing flows are 80–120 CFS.
What fish species are in the Frying Pan River?+
The Frying Pan River primarily holds wild brown trout and rainbow trout. Fish sizes vary by section, with tailwater reaches typically holding larger fish.
Quick Conditions
Fishability Thresholds
USGS Gauges
Frying Pan River near Ruedi
Station #09080400