Midges are some of the toughest insects on the planet. They can hatch is the harshest conditions and are abundant in most waterways. Here in Colorado, Midges can dominate the hatch scene and bring, what seems like every trout in the river to the surface. Although these small aquatic insects are not much to look at, Midges provide forage for Trout during the dark days of Winter. Those of you who read our fly fishing reports may notice that our recommended flies for winter fly fishing are always midges. These little protein packed critters come in a variety of sizes and colors but rarely get above a size #18. That is until later in February and March when the water temps start to reach 40 degrees. Once this happens we begin to see a Midge that is much larger than the microscopic #22 #22 sizes of Winter. We call this Midge “MIDGEZILLA.” You will see these larger Midges climbing on the banks and floating along the surface of the river. At first glance you may mistake this big guy/gal as a BWO but upon closer inspection you will find that it indeed is a Midge. These late Winter/ early Spring hatches give us incredible dry fly fishing in the afternoon. In fact some days you can set your watch to it. Once this happens you can throw dry flies until your heart is content. Generally a size #18 Griffiths Gnat or Renegade is all you need to bring a Trout to the surface. We are currently booking trips for this “5th Season” and have some availability. Give us a call and get the latest fishing conditions on the Eagle River, Roaring Fork River and Colorado River.