Crystal River Report 1-2-2019

CRYSTAL RIVER REPORT

January 2, 2018

FLOW: 73 CFS in Carbondale

WATER CONDITIONS: Clear and low. Ice is beginning to collect pretty much everywhere.

OVERALL RATING: 5 out of 10

FOOD SOURCES PRESENT:  Midges, BWO nymphs

THE LOW DOWN: The Crystal has had it's low water issues this year, but the abundance of early winter rain and snow is starting to add to the flows.  Most of the summer and early fall saw only single-digit flows in Carbondale.

But, don't despair!  Higher-volume flows can be found upriver, especially above Redstone and up through Marble.  The fish may not be huge, but they are certainly more plentiful the higher in elevation you go. Ice is beginning to becoming to be an issue.

Fish the deep pools and runs, skip the ankle-deep stuff and take a few of your favorite smaller dries and nymphs.

HATCHES: Midges 20-22

APPROPRIATE PATTERNS:

NYMPHS: Copper John 18-20, Tung Pheasant Tail 18-20, Prince Nymph 16-18, Jerome Baetis 18-20, JuJu Baetis 18-22, Neon Nightmare 20-22, Bead Wing Midge 20-22, Medallion Midge 20-22, San Juan Worm 10

DRIES: Flag Adams 18-22, Hi Vis Griffiths Gnat 18, Skittering Zelon Midge 20, CDC Transitional Midge 22, HOH CDC Spent Midge 20-22, HOH CDC Midge Adult 24, Morgan's Para Midge 20-22

HINTS: Skip the average-looking water and focus on deep pits and runs.

Flows: http://www.dwr.state.co.us/SurfaceWater/data/detail_graph.aspx?ID=CRYDOWCO&MTYPE=DISCHRG

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