Crystal River Fishing Report
By manager. February 13, 2026 In River Reports.
Crystal River – Flow: 42 cfs/Carbondale.
Conditions: The Crystal is currently in its quietest phase of the year. With flows hovering around 40 cfs near the shop, the river is low, clear, and very cold. While the upper sections above Redstone are mostly locked in with shelf ice and snow, the lower river from the Fish Hatchery down to the confluence with the Roaring Fork is wide open and fishing surprisingly well for those who enjoy a “walk and wade” approach.
The key to success on the Crystal right now is finding the deep, slow wintering holes. Because the water is so low and clear, the fish are incredibly skittish; long, light leaders (5x or 6x) are a must, and you’ll want to approach the banks with a low profile. While midges are the primary hatch, don’t be afraid to lead with a larger attractor like a Stonefly or a Worm to get their attention in the deeper runs, then trail a tiny midge behind it.
Expect the “bite window” to be a bit shorter here than on the Fork or Pan—roughly 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM. Once the sun drops behind the canyon walls, the water temperature hits the floor and the activity shuts off almost instantly. Stop by the shop on your way through town for the latest scoop and to grab a fresh spool of fluorocarbon!
Flies
Dries:
Griffith’s Gnat #20-22
Trailin’ Shuck Midge #20-22
Parachute Adams #22
Roy’s Special Emerger #20-22
Nymphs:
Pat’s Rubber Legs (Coffee/Black) #10-12
San Juan Worm (Red or Pink) #14-16
Zebra Midge (Black, Red, or Silver) #18-22
Prince Nymph #16-18
RS2 (Grey or Olive) #20-22
Pheasant Tail (Bead Head) #16-20
Streamers:
Thin Mint #10-12
Sculpzilla #8
Jig Mini Bugger (Black) #12
