.png?width=300&height=100&name=Rise%20Beyond%20Logo%2010.29.24%20300x100px%20(2).png "Rise Beyond Fly Fishing Co. logo featuring a cowboy riding a large trout, holding a fishing rod in one hand and a camera in the other, with stylized text in a rugged, outdoor-themed font")
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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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Ah, the Poudre. Where the snowmelt rages like a caffeinated badger and the trout, bless their hearts, try to hold onto their spots while we fling feathered lies their way. This month, the Mishawaka section is a wild ride – think whitewater rafting with a side of fly fishing. You'll be dodging kayakers, wrestling with the current, and trying to convince those finicky browns that your fly looks like a tasty snack, not a tiny, feathery betrayal. It's a test of skill, patience, and how well you can hold your beer while casting.
Current Conditions
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- Star Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
- Flow: 800 CFS (High, due to snowmelt)
- Water Temperature: ~45–48°F
- Water Clarity: Slightly turbid, especially after midday.
- Best Times to Fish: Early Morning (before the rafters), Late Afternoon.
- Wind Rating: Moderate, especially in the canyon.
- Fishing Pressure: High, especially on weekends and with recreational river users.
- Pro Tip: Look for slower water along the edges and behind boulders. Wading is tricky, so be extra cautious.
Best Times to Fish
Early mornings before the rafting crowds hit and late afternoons as the sun dips below the canyon walls are your best bets. Midday is a chaotic mix of whitewater and occasional rises, so plan accordingly.
Dream Stream 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), Stoneflies | Black Beauty (#20-24), Blue Wing Olive (#18-22), Pat’s Rubber Legs (#10-12) |
| Apr | Baetis, Caddis, Midges | Elk Hair Caddis (#16-18), RS2 (#20-22), San Juan Worm (#12-14) |
| May | Caddis, Stoneflies, Golden Stones | Elk Hair Caddis (#14-16), Golden Stone Nymph (#8-12), Prince Nymph (#14-16) |
Recommended Flies
Dry Fly: Elk Hair Caddis (Size 14–16), for those brief windows of surface action.
Nymph: Golden Stone Nymph (Size 8–12), a must-have for the Poudre's big stonefly population.
Streamer: Woolly Bugger (Size 6–10), to provoke aggressive strikes in the turbulent water.
Tips for Fly Fishing Cache La Poudre in May
- Seasonal Tip: High water and recreational traffic make for challenging conditions. Focus on safety and persistence.
- Dry Fly: Brief windows of Caddis activity are worth waiting for, but don't expect consistent topwater action.
- Nymphing: The most productive method. Focus on deep runs and slow pockets with weighted nymphs.
- Streamer Fishing: Use large, dark streamers and fish them aggressively to attract attention in the turbid water.
Where to Fish on Cache La Poudre River
Hot Spots
- Mishawaka Amphitheatre Access: Popular starting point, expect crowds.
- Pineview Falls Pullouts: Multiple pullouts along Highway 14.
- The Narrows Trailhead: Requires a short hike, less crowded.
Access Points
- "Mishawaka Run" - Classic section, but heavily trafficked.
- "Pineview Falls Pools" - Deeper pools, good for big nymphs and streamers.
- "The Narrows" - Requires careful wading and casting, but can be rewarding.
River Whisper: Colorado Fly Fishing Edge
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Tired of outdated fishing reports? As a modern fly fisherman, you need fresh insights that actually help you reel in more fish. River Whisper brings you honest, up-to-date fly fishing reports for Colorado—no gimmicks, just the real deal. Elevate your fishing game with us—because your success on the river matters!
Local Regulations & Landowner Info
Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW) Fishing Regulations
Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Information
Respect private property and adhere to posted signage.
FAQs: Cache La Poudre River Fly Fishing
Common questions and answers.
Is the Poudre suitable for beginners? Challenging due to high flows and recreational traffic; some sections are more manageable.
What’s the best rod setup here? A 9' 5 or 6-weight rod with a strong backbone is recommended.
Any special rules to watch for? Check CPW regulations for specific sections; be aware of private property and recreational river users.
Final Thoughts
The Cache La Poudre in May is a wild and wonderful place, testing your skills and rewarding your persistence. Be prepared for high water, recreational traffic, and challenging conditions, but the thrill of landing a Poudre trout is well worth the effort. Stay safe, be patient, and enjoy the adventure. Tight lines, and may your casts be true and your beer cold!
