Taylor River
OptimalColorado
Current Conditions
The Taylor River is running at 113 CFS — ideal conditions. Expect clear water and excellent dry fly opportunities.
Last updated: Mar 30, 2026, 2:00 AM from USGS gauge 09110000 (Taylor River at Almont)
7-Day Flow Trend
Flow thresholds: Optimal 100–300 CFS | Fishable to 600 CFS | Marginal to 1000 CFS
Water Temperature
Water temperature is cool — ideal for trout activity. Fish will be feeding actively throughout the day.
About the Taylor River
The Taylor below Taylor Park Reservoir is one of Colorado's best tailwaters. Cold, clear water produces huge trout in the catch-and-release section, with fish over 20 inches not uncommon. The famous "hog trough" is a bucket-list destination.
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Midge Griffith's Gnat #20 | ||||||||||||
Blue-Winged Olive BWO Parachute #18-20 | ||||||||||||
Caddis Elk Hair Caddis #16 | ||||||||||||
Pale Morning Dun PMD Sparkle Dun #16 |
Active Hatches — March
Patterns: Griffith's Gnat #20, Zebra Midge #20-22
Patterns: BWO Parachute #18-20, RS2 #20
River Sections
Taylor Dam to Almont
wade access113 CFS
Gold Medal tailwater with the famous "hog trough" near the dam. Technical, rewarding fishing.
Guides on the Taylor River(11)
These fishing guides list the Taylor River as one of their home waters.
Crested Butte Angler
Crested Butte, Colorado
Dragonfly Anglers
Crested Butte, Colorado
High Mountain Drifters Guide Service
Gunnison, Colorado
Riffle and Rise Outfitters
Gunnison, Colorado
The Sportsman Outdoors & Fly Shop
Lake City, Colorado
Willowfly Anglers
Almont, Colorado
Three Rivers Resort
Almont, Colorado
Wilder on the Taylor
Almont, Colorado
Eleven Taylor River Lodge
Almont, Colorado
Harmels on the Taylor
Almont, Colorado
Three Rivers Resort & Outfitting
Almont, Colorado
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to fish the Taylor River?+
The Taylor 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 Taylor River in March?+
In March, the Taylor River sees Midge, Blue-Winged Olive activity. Top patterns include Griffith's Gnat #20, BWO Parachute #18-20. Always carry a selection of nymphs as well.
How many fishing guides operate on the Taylor River?+
Outguided lists 11 fishing guides who operate on the Taylor 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 Taylor River?+
The Taylor 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 100–300 CFS.
What fish species are in the Taylor River?+
The Taylor 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
Taylor River at Almont
Station #09110000