Eagle River
MarginalColorado
Current Conditions
The Eagle River is running at 40.6 CFS — marginal conditions. Expect off-color water. Stick to the edges and fish streamers or heavy nymph rigs.
Last updated: Jul 7, 2026, 5:15 PM from USGS gauge 09064600 (Eagle River near Minturn)
7-Day Flow Trend
Flow thresholds: Optimal 150–400 CFS | Fishable to 900 CFS | Marginal to 1500 CFS
Water Temperature
Water temperature is in the optimal range for trout. Expect good insect activity and feeding.
About the Eagle River
The Eagle River flows through the Vail Valley and is one of Colorado's most accessible Gold Medal waters. Despite running through a resort corridor, it produces quality trout fishing with good hatches and consistent flows.
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Blue-Winged Olive BWO Parachute #18-20 | ||||||||||||
Caddis Elk Hair Caddis #14-16 | ||||||||||||
Pale Morning Dun PMD Sparkle Dun #16 | ||||||||||||
Golden Stonefly Stimulator #8 |
Active Hatches — July
Patterns: Elk Hair Caddis #14-16
Patterns: PMD Sparkle Dun #16
Patterns: Stimulator #8, Yellow Sally
River Sections
Minturn to Avon
wade access40.6 CFS
Upper Eagle through the Vail Valley. Good public access along the bike path.
Avon to Dotsero
wade/float access89 CFS
Lower Eagle with bigger water joining the Colorado. Good brown trout water in fall.
Guides on the Eagle River(13)
These fishing guides list the Eagle River as one of their home waters.
Reno Fly Fishing Outfitters
Reno, California
Tight Lines Guide Service
Grass Valley, California
Almont Anglers
Almont, Colorado
Breckenridge Outfitters
Breckenridge, Colorado
Eagle River Outfitter
Avon, Colorado
Fly Fishing Outfitters
Avon, Colorado
Gore Creek Fly Fisherman
Vail, Colorado
Mountain Angler
Breckenridge, Colorado
Roaring Fork Anglers – Alpine Angling
Glenwood Springs, Carbondale, Colorado
Trout’s Fly Fishing
Denver, Colorado
FE Guides
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Elkhorn Lodge
Kremmling, Colorado
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to fish the Eagle River?+
The Eagle River fishes well from spring through fall. Peak dry fly season is typically June through September. The best hatches occur during summer months with PMDs and caddis. Fall brings excellent streamer fishing and fewer crowds.
What flies work on the Eagle River in July?+
In July, the Eagle River sees Caddis, Pale Morning Dun, Golden Stonefly activity. Top patterns include Elk Hair Caddis #14-16, PMD Sparkle Dun #16, Stimulator #8. Always carry a selection of nymphs as well.
How many fishing guides operate on the Eagle River?+
Avonture lists 13 fishing guides who operate on the Eagle River. These guides offer local knowledge of hatches, access points, and current conditions that can significantly improve your experience.
What is the current flow on the Eagle River?+
The Eagle River's flow data is updated every 30 minutes from USGS gauge stations (waterdata.usgs.gov). Check the top of this page for current CFS readings, fishability status, and a 7-day flow trend chart. Optimal fishing flows are 150–400 CFS.
What fish species are in the Eagle River?+
The Eagle River primarily holds wild brown trout and rainbow trout. Fish sizes vary by section, with tailwater reaches typically holding larger fish.
Quick Conditions
Fishability Thresholds