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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.
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March on the Cache la Poudre River is a game of patience and precision—low flows, clear water, and trout that are just waking up from their winter daze. The canyon remains cold, but as you move closer to Fort Collins, the warmer afternoon sun starts to trigger better feeding activity. This time of year, it’s less about catching numbers and more about playing the conditions right.
Midges and Baetis are the main event, and nymphing is still king. Dry fly action? Limited, but on the right cloudy afternoon, BWOs might make an appearance. Streamer fishing? You’re better off waiting for April. If you’re looking for solitude, crisp mountain air, and a technical but rewarding challenge, the Poudre won’t disappoint.
Conditions Summary
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- Flow Rate: 50-70 CFS (Low and technical)
- Water Temperature: 35-40°F
- Clarity: Crystal clear—stealth required
- Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
- Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5 – Low flows and cold temps make it challenging, but it’s improving)
River Flow Chart
Source: Colorado DWR River Station Reports
Cache la Poudre Hatch Chart
| Month | Primary Hatches | Effective Patterns |
|---|---|---|
| February | Midges, Winter Stones | Zebra Midge (#20-24), RS2 (#20-22), Pat’s Rubber Legs (#12-14) |
| March | Midges, Baetis (BWO) | Black Beauty (#20-24), Blue Wing Olive (#18-22), Pheasant Tail (#16-20) |
| April | 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) – Best on overcast afternoons when BWOs start popping.
- Nymph: Pheasant Tail (#16-20) – Great Baetis imitation, deadly in slower seams.
- Streamer: Mini Leech (#10-12) – Not prime streamer time, but a slow-drifted leech might move a fish.
Tips for Fly Fishing the Cache la Poudre in March
Seasonal Tip
Slow and deep is the key—trout aren’t chasing food aggressively yet, so make every drift count.
Dry Fly
Limited, but watch for Baetis on cloudy afternoons in softer seams.
Nymphing
The best option—stick with small midges and Baetis patterns fished deep and slow.
Streamer Fishing
Not great right now, but dead-drifting a small leech can work in deep pools.
Access Points
Poudre Canyon (Lower Section – Gateway Natural Area)
- Description: Slower-moving water with easier wading access.
- Why Fish Here: Less pressured than areas near Fort Collins.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Poudre Canyon (Upper Section – Above Mishawaka)
- Description: Faster water, classic pocket water fishing.
- Why Fish Here: More structure, but harder to fish in winter conditions.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Urban Section (Fort Collins Area)
- Description: Mild winter water temps, easier access, but more anglers.
- Why Fish Here: Trout start feeding earlier in the year here.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights
- Artificial flies and lures only in certain sections—check local regulations.
- Private property is scattered throughout—watch for posted signs.
- Flows are low—avoid excessive wading to prevent spooking fish.
The Cache la Poudre is waking up, and while it’s still cold and technical, those who fish smart, stay stealthy, and time it right can find success.
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