Blue River Fly Fishing Report Below Green Mountain 12/5/25

Steady winter flows and ultra-clear canyon water define this stretch right now.

Updated: 12/04/2025

The Blue below Green Mountain is running low, clear, and cold, with trout sliding deeper into predictable winter holding water. Flows have barely shifted from last week, but lower overnight temperatures have tightened feeding windows and slowed fish movement. Trout are feeding almost exclusively on midges and small baetis nymphs drifting through slower lanes. Angler pressure is low, and those who adjust depth and weight precisely are finding consistent winter success.

Listen to the Audio Overview

Conditions Summary

• Flow: Stable low tailwater release; unchanged week over week
• Water Temperature: High 30s to low 40s; slowly trending downward
• Air Temperature: Mid 30s afternoons; colder in canyon shadows
• Clarity: Very clear; excellent sighting but spooky trout
• Crowds: Low; very light winter pressure
• Best Window: 11 am to 3 pm when the canyon warms slightly
• Fishing Type Focus: Nymphing, because trout are concentrated in soft, deep seams and responding to tiny drifting midges

Weather

Expect a cold, shaded canyon most of the day with only brief warming midday. Cloud cover improves midge drift and softens glare, making the bite more consistent.

Top Flies in Your Box This Week

• Black Beauty 20–22
• Top Secret Midge 22–24
• Mercury Midge 20–22
• RS2 Gray 20–22
• WD40 Brown 20–22
• JuJu Midge Purple 20–22
• Shot Glass Baetis 20
• Chocolate Thunder 20–22
• Rainbow Warrior 20
• Mini Leech Black 14

Pro Rig of the Week – Canyon Winter Micro-Drift Rig

Leader: 10 ft 5x fluoro tapering to 6x
Top Fly: WD40 Brown 20
Dropper: Top Secret Midge 24
Indicator: Yarn or micro AirLock set light
Weight: One micro split-shot; adjust constantly
Target Water: Deep mid-channel troughs, slow inside edges, and canyon pockets that collect drifting midges

Hatch Chart for November

Access Points

Green Mountain Canyon Trail Access
Steep trail but classic winter water with deep runs and slow seams.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Lower Canyon Pull-Offs
Clear water, good structure, low pressure; excellent long-run drifting.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

BLM Access Near the Confluence
Broader runs transitioning toward Colorado River behavior; reliable depth.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Roadside Gravel Bars (Downstream)
Soft winter water with room to spread out; best for long nymph drifts.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Tailwater Approach Area
Coldest section but steady midge drift; technical and rewarding.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Stop Here After the River

Angry James Brewing Co. (Silverthorne)
A warm, relaxed local brewery perfect after a day in the cold canyon. Expect big mountain vibes, community tables, and comfort-focused après energy.
What to order: The Resolute IPA and the rotating food truck’s signature warm dish.

Local Regulations & Notes

• Watch for icy banks along shaded canyon walls
• Flows are stable but can shift slightly with dam operations
• Barbless hooks recommended for safe winter handling
• Shelf ice forms mid-morning on colder days

FAQ

Q: Is this stretch easier than the Silverthorne tailwater?
A: Yes, less pressured, though still very technical.

Q: Are streamers worth throwing?
A: Only small leeches fished painfully slow.

Q: What depth should I target?
A: Deep winter slots where current softens.

Q: Is 6x needed?
A: Almost always in this clarity.

Q: When is the best feeding period?
A: A short mid-day window once the canyon warms.

Q: Can I sight-fish here?
A: Yes, in slower edges and deep clear lanes.

Companion Article

Colorado Winter Trout Feeding Behavior in Clear, Low-Flow Rivers