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The Cache la Poudre River offers some of the most rugged fly fishing near Fort Collins, and winter pushes it into a lean, honest freestone fishery. Flowing out of the Front Range foothills, the Poudre runs cold, fast, and clear this time of year, rewarding anglers who focus on structure, depth, and timing.
The Poudre is starting to wake up, but it’s still early spring and very condition-dependent. Lower elevations are fishing better, while higher stretches are still cold and inconsistent. Flows are manageable for now, but this window can close quickly with runoff.
Midday is everything here. As temps rise, fish slide out of slower winter lies and start feeding more actively in seams and pocket water. You won’t see much surface action yet, but subsurface fishing can be productive if you stay mobile and hit the right water.
Listen to the Podcast
Conditions Summary
- Flow Rate: ~120–250 CFS (variable, rising with weather)
- Water Temp: 36–42°F
- Air Temp: 48–60°F
- Clarity: Clear to slight stain (afternoons)
- Best Times: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Weather
Cache la Poudre Hatch Chart
| Month | Hatch | Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| February | Midges | #20–24 | Limited activity |
| March | Midges, Early BWOs | #18–24 | Midday windows |
| April | BWOs, Midges | #18–22 | Increasing activity |
Top Flies for the Month – Cache la Poudre (April)
🔥 Fish These First
- Top Secret Midge #22–24
- Juju Baetis #20
- RS2 #20–22
If you’re only rigging once, start here.
Fly Box for the Month
Match the Hatch
| Fly | Size | When | Where |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parachute BWO | #18–20 | Midday hatch | Softer seams and tailouts |
| BWO Emerger | #20–22 | Hatch transition | Just below surface film |
| Foam Wing RS2 | #20 | Late morning | Slower edges and pockets |
Big Eats
| Fly | Size | When | Where |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kreelex | #8–10 | Low light | Pocket water and plunge pools |
| Mini Leech | #10–12 | Afternoon | Slower seams and transitions |
Wildcards
| Fly | Size | When | Where |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zebra Midge (Black/Silver) | #22–24 | Pressure | Tight seams and slower water |
| Mercury Baetis | #20 | Selective fish | Transitional pocket water |
How to Fish It
- Start with Top Secret Midge + Juju Baetis under a tight indicator or short-line setup
- Stay mobile, the Poudre rewards covering water
- Rotate in RS2 when fish get picky
- Focus on seams, pocket water, and slower edges
- Use Big Eats in deeper pockets to trigger aggressive fish
Tips Fly Fishing on the Cache la Poudre
Seasonal Strategy
Fish lower elevations early in the season. As temps rise, more of the river becomes productive.
Dry Fly
Limited but improving. Watch for short BWO windows.
Nymphing
Primary method. Pocket water requires tight drifts and good positioning.
Streamer Fishing
Underrated. Works well in deeper pockets and during lower light.
Access Points
Poudre Canyon (Lower Sections) | 📍 Locals Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5.0
Best early-season fishing with consistent flows and accessible pocket water.
Picnic Rock Area | 📍 Locals Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.5
Mix of runs and pocket water with solid holding structure.
Gateway Natural Area | 📍 Locals Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.0
Easier access with productive seams and slower water options.
→ Want more access points, maps, and real-time updates?
Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights
Regulated by Colorado Parks and Wildlife
- Artificial flies and lures in most sections
- Check regulations for specific stretches
- Respect private land boundaries along the river
FAQ on this Spot
Is the Cache la Poudre fishing good right now?
Yes, especially in lower elevations where water temps are slightly higher.
What flies should I use on the Poudre?
Midge and baetis patterns like Top Secret Midge, Juju Baetis, and RS2 are most consistent.
What is the best time of day to fish the Poudre?
Late morning through mid-afternoon as water temps rise.
Where should I fish on the Poudre?
Focus on pocket water, seams, and slower edges where fish can hold and feed.
Is the Poudre good for beginners?
Yes in certain sections, but pocket water requires good casting and drift control.
Do I need a guide for the Poudre?
Not required, but helpful if you’re new to fishing pocket water.