Over the next week, you can expect clearer water conditions. Keeping an eye on the weather forecast can give anglers a big advantage—especially during runoff season—by revealing pockets of productive fishing. A few cold nights and snow at higher elevations can cause rivers and streams to clear up overnight. Fish that have been working hard to feed in dirty water now get a chance to eat freely, taking advantage of the buffet of bugs stirred up by recent conditions.
Caddis and Blue-Winged Olive (BWO) hatches, typically active this time of year, will slow during colder spells. You may still find hatches downstream on the lower Eagle later in the day as it warms. Most aquatic insects hatch when water temperatures reach the mid-40s to 50s, so nymphing will be the most productive method this week. Consider reverting to some of your winter bug patterns.
Floating has been prime on the Eagle, Colorado, and Roaring Fork. With strong flows and improving clarity, anglers are reaping the rewards of mixed weather. Streamers and nymph rigs are producing well from the boat, and wade fishing in the valley has also been excellent.
High water can be intimidating for wade anglers, but understanding fish behavior helps. Focus on inside river bends and slower edge water—places where fish conserve energy in soft seams. Present a clean, slow drift and adjust your weight and depth until you find fish. Don’t hesitate to add weight; the right amount will get your flies down quickly and slow your rig enough for fish to eat.
In low-visibility water, shorten the distance between your flies. For example, if visibility is 14 inches, tie your flies 12–14 inches apart so both are in the fish’s line of sight.
Prepare to lose flies. High water carries debris, and hang-ups are more likely in the soft water where we’re targeting fish. Breaking off and re-rigging is part of the game—use this time to sharpen your rigging skills.
Mandy Hertzfeld