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Boulder Creek, flowing from the peaks of the Front Range through the heart of Boulder, Colorado, is a scenic, urban fishery known for its accessible trout fishing and picturesque setting.
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March on Boulder Creek is a test of patience and stealth—low flows, spooky trout, and cold water mean this isn’t exactly a numbers game. But if you like technical fishing and enjoy fooling small, selective trout, this creek delivers. Midges and Baetis are the name of the game, and if you find the right slow seam, you might even spot a few risers sipping emergers in the afternoon.
The urban sections near Boulder offer warmer water and slightly more active fish, while higher canyon stretches are still locked into winter mode. Nymphing small midges and Baetis patterns will produce best, but on cloudy afternoons, keep an eye out for BWOs starting to hatch. Streamer fishing? Not really—these fish don’t want to chase unless you’re working the deeper holes.
Conditions Summary
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- Flow Rate: 15-30 CFS (Low and clear)
- Water Temperature: 36-40°F
- Clarity: Crystal clear—stealth is key
- Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
- Star Rating: ⭐⭐ (2/5 – Low flows and cold water make it tricky but rewarding)
River Flow Chart
Source: Colorado DWR River Station Reports
Boulder Creek Hatch Chart
| Month | Primary Hatches | Effective Patterns |
|---|---|---|
| Feb | Midges, Winter Stones | Zebra Midge (#20-24), RS2 (#20-22), Pat’s Rubber Legs (#12-14) |
| Mar | Midges, Baetis (BWO) | Black Beauty (#20-24), Blue Wing Olive (#18-22), Pheasant Tail (#16-20) |
| Apr | Baetis, Caddis, Midges | Elk Hair Caddis (#16-18), RS2 (#20-22), Pat’s Rubber Legs (#12-14) |
Top Flies for the Week
- Dry Fly: Blue Wing Olive (#18-22) – Only on cloudy afternoons when Baetis are active.
- Nymph: Pheasant Tail (#16-20) – Great for imitating early-season Baetis nymphs.
- Streamer: Mini Leech (#10-12) – Only worth trying in the deeper pools.
Tips for Fly Fishing Boulder Creek in March
Seasonal Tip
Fish small and light—trout are feeding, but they aren’t moving much for food yet.
Dry Fly
Limited activity, but a surprise BWO hatch can bring fish up in slow seams.
Nymphing
Best approach right now—midges and Baetis patterns fished deep and slow are key.
Streamer Fishing
Not a high-percentage move, but a well-placed small leech can trigger a take in deeper pools.
Access Points
Boulder Canyon (Upstream of Boulder)
- Description: Fast pocket water with good structure.
- Why Fish Here: Less pressured than town sections, but colder water.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Central Boulder (Urban Section)
- Description: More accessible, slightly warmer water temps.
- Why Fish Here: Trout tend to be a little more active, but it gets pressured.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Eldorado Springs Area
- Description: Mix of deep pools and riffles, more technical fishing.
- Why Fish Here: Good spot for nymphing, less foot traffic.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights
- Artificial flies and lures only in most sections—check signage.
- Watch for private property—some areas are off-limits to anglers.
- Flows are low—avoid excessive wading to keep fish from spooking.
Boulder Creek in March is all about small flies, light tippet, and patience. Fish slow, stay stealthy, and be ready for a challenge—but those who crack the code will be rewarded.
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