Cache la Poudre Fly Fishing Report – Beat Runoff with These May Fly Picks

Flowing through Colorado’s stunning Front Range, the Cache la Poudre River is a rugged, scenic waterway known as Colorado’s only Wild and Scenic River.

The Poudre is flirting with prime conditions — flows have dropped just enough to make the morning hours magic, and the clarity is surprisingly solid in canyon stretches. While afternoon melt is still pushing some color into the lower reaches, early risers are finding trout willing to rise or chase nymphs in the tailouts and riffles.

This week feels like a classic early-summer window on the Poudre. Big water’s fading, bugs are in the air, and fish are fired up. If you're willing to hike a bit or get creative with your casts near the structure, you’re going to find success — and probably avoid the yoga-in-the-creek crowd too.

🎧 Listen to the Podcast

Hear this week’s Poudre River fly fishing breakdown — including where it’s fishable, what to throw, and when to call it a day.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: ~400–450 CFS (canyon), slightly higher below the Narrows
• Water Temperature: 48–54°F
• Air Temperature: High 70s to mid 80s
• Clarity: Good in the morning; slightly stained by afternoon
• Best Times to Fish: 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM or after 6:30 PM

Poudre River Hatch Chart

June

• Caddis (Size 16–18)
• Golden Stones (Size 10–12)
• PMDs (Size 16–18)
• Yellow Sallies (Size 14–16)

May

• BWOs
• Midges
• Early Stoneflies

April

• Midges
• Winter Stones
• BWO (sporadic)

Top 3 Flies for the Month

• Dry Fly: Stimulator – Size 14 – Deadly along the edges and under overhangs.
• Nymph: Two Bit Hooker – Size 18 – Drifted tight to the bottom in pocket water.
• Streamer: Thin Mint – Size 8 – Swing through tailouts during cloudy spells.

Tips for Fly Fishing on the Poudre

• Seasonal Tip: Focus on the canyon early, when melt hasn’t muddied things up.
• Dry Fly Tip: Try a caddis or stimulator near foam lines and grassy undercuts.
• Nymphing Tip: Use tungsten — flows are still pushy. Keep your drifts short and deep.
• Streamer Fishing Tip: Try flashier patterns — water is off-color enough to justify it.

Access Points

1. The Narrows

• Why Fish Here: Faster water, good seams, holds both browns and rainbows.
• Access: Pull-offs between MM 113–115
• Rating: ★★★★☆

2. Gateway Natural Area

• Why Fish Here: Clearer water, good family spot with soft edges.
• Access: Small parking fee; good for beginners.
• Rating: ★★★★☆

3. Upper Mishawaka Area

• Why Fish Here: Deep pools, pocket water, and consistent gradient.
• Access: Park carefully — this stretch can get crowded on weekends.
• Rating: ★★★★★

Local Regulations and Landowner Notes

• Barbless hooks required in designated Wild Trout Waters.
• Portions of the Poudre in the lower canyon have private access — obey all signage.
• Fishing above Gateway often yields better clarity during runoff windows.

FAQ on this Spot

1. When is the best time to fish the Poudre in June?
   Early morning, before the sun warms up the snowpack and increases turbidity.
2. Is the Poudre safe to wade this week?
   Yes, in canyon stretches — but pick your crossings carefully and use a wading staff.
3. Can I fish this with beginners?
   Yes, especially around Gateway or the picnic areas near Mishawaka.
4. What flies should I bring?
   Stimulators, caddis, PMDs, small nymphs, and flashy streamers.
5. Is the river stocked?
   Yes, in lower stretches, but wild browns and rainbows dominate the canyon zones.
6. Where do I park?
   Designated pull-offs are everywhere, but Gateway offers structured parking for a fee.
7. Can I fish this in the evening?
   Definitely — dry flies come alive after 6:30 PM in the canyon.
8. How pressured is the river right now?
   Moderate — early weekday mornings are your best shot at solitude.