Crystal River Report 10-24-21

October 24, 2021

FLOW: 83 CFS in Carbondale

WATER CONDITIONS: Low and Clear

OVERALL RATING: 6 out of 10

FOOD SOURCES PRESENT:  Midges, BWOs

THE LOW DOWN: In the fall months, don't overlook access areas in the town of Carbondale or any of the National Forest access between Carbondale and Redstone. 

This can also be a great river to do some wildlife watching on as well. Keep your eyes out for Elk, Deer, Bighorn Sheep, and Merriam Turkeys.

The healthier bug and fish populations tend to be above Redstone, but nice fish can be found anywhere on the Crystal. 

Most of you know this is the river to find some solitude, many visitors are focused on the world-renowned Fryingpan, Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers. 

No need to overthink this river, find some of the pools and runs and show them your favorite smaller attractor flies.

HATCHES:  Midges 18-26, BWOs 18-22, 

APPROPRIATE PATTERNS:
NYMPHS: Copper John Red, 18-20, Tung Pheasant Tail 16-20, Prince Nymph 16-18, Jerome Baetis 18-20, JuJu Baetis 18-22, Neon Nightmare 20-22, San Juan Worm 10

DRIES: Griffith's Gnat 20-22, Parachute Adams 16-20, Stimulator 18, TC Sparkledun BWO 18-22

Streamers: Lightning Bugger Black 4, Beldar Lemon Drop 4-6, BH Simi Seal Leech 10, Sculpzilla 4-8

HINTS: Don't ignore the shallow riffles, they are often loaded with sculpins and insects.

Flows: https://waterdata.usgs.gov/co/nwis/uv/?site_no=09081600&PARAmeter_cd=00065,00060

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