A Glimpse at October Conditions

Since saying goodbye to summer, fall has arrived in the Gunnison Valley in full force, accompanied by a variety of changing conditions. Snowfall has recently begun to dust the high mountains, and we’re all embracing Colorado’s crisp autumn weather brought on by cold mornings and evenings. Vivid streamside foliage, low river levels, cooler climate and water temperatures, and crystal clear creeks and streams are all the obvious effects of this transition. Inefficiencies with angling techniques can result in indecisiveness, which is an effect during this time of the year as well, so do your homework prior to heading out for the day.

Watch Out for Early Mornings and Redds

Anglers should plan to start later in the morning for the best Colorado fly fishing experience. This is not only for your own comfort, but it also gives the ecosystem a chance to wake up and get moving! Browns and brookies are beginning their spawning season which makes for some thrilling angling opportunities. Be aware of their redds—a spawning bed in a river or stream where fish lay their eggs. Avoid walking on them or otherwise disrupting their behavior in any way. This is vital to the health of our fisheries for years and years to come.

A Few Tips for a Great Fall Day on the Water

Your approach to any stretch of river or stream becomes more important this time of year. Take your time and read the water prior to making your first cast. When nymphing, use less weight, lighter tippet, and an indicator with more stealth. The fish are aware of your presence so you’ll need every advantage to be successful. Fishing behind pods of salmon can be productive, as the rainbows tend to feed on their eggs. A tandem nymph rig with an attractor pattern in front, followed by a small baetis or midge can be an effective way to start your day. Have a streamer rod nearby with a sink tip leader to help get that fly down in the feeding zone quickly. Your ability to wade more freely can give you an advantage when streamer fishing, due to how you can position yourself within the system.

Most Productive Flies This Time of Year

Here is a list of flies we’d suggest using for Colorado fly fishing in October:

• Hoppers 8-12
• Amy’s Ant 10-12
• D-Midge 18-20
• Zebra Midge 16-20
• Juju Baetis 16-20
• Magic Fly 18-20
• Barr’s BWO Emerger 16-20
• Trout Bead or Salmon Egg 14-16
• Baby Gonga 4-8
• Sculpzilla 4-8

Plan Your Trip With Eleven Angling

Give us a call to get the best Colorado fly fishing experience with our expert guides or get a trip to Taylor River Lodge on your calendar. Until then, enjoy the beautiful crisp weather, and we hope to see you soon!