Roaring Fork River

The Roaring Fork River is a GOLD MEDAL tributary of the Colorado River that is approximately 70 miles long. It is one of the last “freestone” rivers left in Colorado, which is a natural free-living river that is not dammed and relies mostly on snowmelt.  “Gold Medal” is the highest quality classification that Colorado will assign dependent on the amount of quality fish per square mile. It his home to Rainbow, Brown, Cutthroat, and Brook trout.

The fork originates from the Sawatch Mountains. It continues northwest throughout the Roaring fork valley in the Western Slope, west of the continental divide. It runs parallel to Aspen, Basalt, Carbondale and Glenwood Springs in a canyon like setting, with a many class III rapids, before joining the Colorado River in Glenwood Springs. It begins its path at 12,000 ft. and drops significantly throughout its course, and because of this offers multiple settings as the river declines.  In the spring when the snow melts and runoff is in full force, the river might be too fast or dirty to fish. Once it settles down in the end of June, it offers some excellent float and wade fishing from Aspen to Glenwood Springs.

Throughout the summer the Roaring Fork has some of the most prolific hatches that Colorado has to offer. The famous Green Drakes, Golden Stones, Caddis, Pale Morning Duns, Yellow Sally and Baetis all play a vital role during the growing season of summer for these trout. As a result, the dry fly and nymph fishing throughout the summer is some of the best in the state!

There are a lot of mixed sections of private and public water throughout its course. So, because of this, the most enjoyable way to fish this river is by floating. From Aspen to Carbondale, because of its contour we use 14’ whitewater rafts with comfortable seats and stable casting platforms. From Carbondale to Glenwood Springs, as the river increases in size, we are able to use 16’ Drift boats that are very spacious and comfortable. Half day and full day trips are available. I am in Colorado and offering these trips through Frying Pan Anglers from July through October. Please book your days well in advance to ensure I will be available throughout these months.

Frying Pan Anglers

(970) 927-3441

Rates:

Half day float (1 or 2 anglers): $400

Full day float (1 or 2 anglers): $525