Fryingpan River Fishing Report
By manager. February 13, 2026 In River Reports.
Fryingpan River – Flow: 41 cfs / below Ruedi Reservoir.
Conditions: We are currently in the heart of winter mode on the Pan, with flows holding steady at a lean 41 cfs. This is lower than the seasonal average, making for ultra-technical, sight-fishing conditions. The water is gin-clear, and the fish are as wary as ever. For the best results, you’ll want to lengthen your leaders and drop down to 6x or 7x tippet—anything heavier will likely be ignored in this thin water.
The “Toilet Bowl” and the flats immediately below the dam remain consistent, but don’t overlook the middle and lower river sections where fish have moved into the deeper, slower winter “buckets” to conserve energy. Midges are the main event, with the most surface activity occurring between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM on warmer days. Look for midge clusters in the eddies and soft foam lines.
The shop is loaded to the gills with a ton of new fly tying merch, new rods and reels, and our new 2026 logo apparel. Swing by and say hello before heading up the hill! Also, a quick reminder from our friends at CPW: harvest of Brown Trout under 14 inches is encouraged on the Pan to help with the overabundance of smaller fish. Do your part and keep a few for the frying pan!
Flies
Dries: * Midge Emerger #22-24
Roy’s Special Emerger #20-22
Mole Fly #20-22
Morgan’s Midge #20-22
Trailin’ Shuck Midge #20-22
Griffith’s Gnat #20-22
Nymphs: * Biot Midge Emerger #20-22
Medallion Midge #20-24
Zebra Midge (Black, Red, Silver) #20-24
CDC RS2 (Grey or Black) #20-22
Epoxy Mysis Shrimp #18-20
BTS Mysis #18-20
Black Beauty #20-22
Streamers: * Thin Mint #10-12
Sculpzilla #8
Jig Mini Bugger #10-12
