If you’re looking for a unique outdoor adventure that’s just a stone’s throw from Crested Butte, why not spend the day fly fishing on the East River?
Fly Fishing the East River The East River is an excellent place for fly fishing. This scenic river runs south from Emerald Lake, through Gothic and past Crested Butte. It then joins with the Taylor River in Almont where they both combine to form the Gunnison River. The East River has 35 miles of gorgeous scenery that is also great for hikers and for a leisurely picnic. There are several stretches of fantastic fishing along the East River. While it more resembles a creek, the river is home to a wealth of fish that makes for a day of quick action. Local guide services can help you locate the best places to fish, but in general some of the best places include:
- The stretch at the Roaring Judy Hatchery
- Behind Mt. Crested Butte off Brush Creek Rd.
- There is also public access above and below the historic town of Gothic
The river is also known for having Kokanee Salmon, which are catch and release only. They make a run every fall from the Blue Mesa Reservoir to the hatchery where they were born. These fish weigh between one and three pounds and are known as hard fighters. Salmon begin dropping their eggs in late September, which is a great time for trout fishing. Trout love the eggs and also feed on the dead, decaying salmon in the river. The area is open for fly fishing year round. Spring provides early season hatches, while summer has the largest hatches and the best fishing. Dry fly fishing can be best in the late summer. Early fall is also a great time for fishing in the East River, while late fall is generally weather dependent.
Roaring Judy Fish Hatchery
Getting There
To get to the Roaring Judy Fish Hatchery section of the East River from Crested Butte, travel South on state highway 135 14 miles – You’ll easily spot the hatchery sign and turn-off on your right (West side of Hwy 135). 14131 North Highway 135, Almont, Colorado 81210 The fishing access section begins above the hatchery’s bridge and continues downstream for approximately one mile. After another three miles the East River meets the Taylor River at Almont. Access is available at the hatchery and downstream. There are also ponds at the Roaring Judy Fish Hatchery that hold very large trout. A short walk through the trees will lead you to the river, where you might also spot deer and eagles.
Fly Fishing Guide Services
There are numerous Fly Shops in Almont and Crested Butte. It would be my recommendation to book a guide for a half day or a full day – it will make your experience much better even if you are an accomplished fly fisherman. Here are some recommended fly shops in the Crested Butte area that book walk and wade trips and float trips. Willowfly Anglers – Almont Dragonfly Anglers – Crested Butte CB Anglers – Crested Butte
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With so much to do in Crested Butte you will not know where to start. Enjoy the outdoors with hiking, biking, golf, fishing, rafting and much more!! Crested Butte CO Real Estate offers a wide variety of properties including ski in/ski out single family homes, ski-in/ski-out condominiums, lake and river frontage properties, golf course property, and true luxury mountain homes on acreage. To see featured properties or search the MLS – visit chriskopf.com. Contact Crested Butte Realtor, Chris Kopf at: (970) 209-5405.
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