Natives claim that the Roaring Fork provides the best winter fishing in the state, offering large trout and mountain whitefish worthy of trophies. Although fishing is limited in early spring due to runoff, lure fishing becomes particularly effective in early summer as the runoff waters drop. Fly fishing is one of the great attractions to this river from summer through fall.
About the River
The Roaring Fork originates above Aspen, and finds its way through the valley for about 70 miles, until its confluence with the Colorado River in Glenwood Springs. The Frying Pan -- a Gold Metal stream -- and Crystal rivers flow into the Roaring Fork upstream creating big water with swift currents.
Types of Fish
Roaring Fork River is designated by the Colorado Wildlife Commission as a Gold Metal stream. This is a stream that has been found to be excellent in large rainbow trout and brown trout fishing, averaging from 12 to 18 inches in length. In addition, this river offers the unique opportunity to catch some of the state's largest whitefish in the winter months, or in October when they spawn.
Fly Fishing
Golden stone flies, hares ears and renegades consistently work well on the Roaring Fork, making this river great for nymph-fishing. Dry flies have their place in the right time; stone flies begin hatching in June when they are the largest, and smaller flies continue to hatch through the summer. Mayfly and caddis hatch into the fall months, making evening dry fly fishing an effective method much of the year.
Floating
The upper river is great for floating, with unlimited public access from the Difficult Creek access on Highway 82 to Independence Pass, in the White River National Forest. The middle portion, from Aspen to Carbondale, is often waded due to its small size and rockiness. To float the lower river, launch your boat at Carbondale under Highway 133. Put in at the Colorado River at the Westbank Bridge access, or at Two Rivers Park in Glenwood Springs.
Licensure
Fishing licenses are required. An annual fishing license for residents and non-residents are available for purchase online at the Colorado Division of Wildlife website. Five-day fishing licenses are available as well. Children under the age of 16 do not need a license. In addition to the fishing license, fishermen age 19 to 64 are also required to purchase a habitat stamp with the purchase of a license.
Limits
The daily bag limit of trout is four, and the possession limit -- the maximum number allowed in the field or at home in storage -- is eight. Whitefish possession has no limit. Fish immediately released after being taken are not part of either limit, and must be released into the same water they're caught.
Guided Tours
There are many great guided tours available on the Roaring Fork, including guided river wading, float trips, instructional classes and fishing trips for children. Among the companies that offer guided tours are Aspen Flyfishing and Roaring Fork Anglers. These trips can generally be booked as half, three-fourths, or full-day tours, and include all the equipment you need for the trip.
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