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The Blue River below Green Mountain Reservoir is a classic Colorado tailwater known for its clear flows, consistent temperatures, and thriving trout population.
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Fishing the Blue River below Green Mountain Reservoir in March is a lesson in patience and persistence. With low flows and crystal-clear water, trout here aren’t taking any chances—if your drift isn’t perfect, they’ll laugh at your fly and move on. But don’t be discouraged—warmer afternoons are triggering better feeding windows, and the first Baetis of the season are starting to show up.
Nymphing is still the name of the game, but on cloudy afternoons, keep an eye on slower seams for rising fish sipping midges or Blue Wing Olives. Streamer fishing? It’s still slow, but small, natural-colored streamers dead-drifted through deep runs might move a big brown looking for an early-season meal. This isn’t the easiest stretch to fish right now, but if you put in the work, you’ll be rewarded.
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Conditions Summary
- Flow Rate: 50-75 CFS (Low and technical)
- Water Temperature: 36-40°F
- Clarity: Crystal clear—stealth required
- Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
- Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5 – Low flows and selective trout make this a challenge)
River Flow Chart
Source: Colorado DWR River Station Reports
Blue River Hatch Chart
| Month | Primary Hatches | Effective Patterns |
|---|---|---|
| February (Previous Month) | Midges, Baetis, Scuds | Zebra Midge (#20-24), RS2 (#20-22), Olive Scud (#16-18) |
| March (Current Month) | Midges, Baetis (BWO), Small Stones | Black Beauty (#20-24), Blue Wing Olive (#18-22), Pheasant Tail (#16-20) |
| April (Next Month) | Baetis, Caddis, Midges | Elk Hair Caddis (#16-18), RS2 (#20-22), Pat’s Rubber Legs (#12-14) |
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Top Flies for the Week
- Dry Fly: Blue Wing Olive (#18-22) – Best fished on overcast afternoons when BWOs start emerging.
- Nymph: P2 (#20-22) – A go-to for imitating emerging Baetis.
- Streamer: Mini Leech (#10-12) – Fish slow and deep for the best chance at a reaction strike.
Tips for Fly Fishing the Blue River Below Green Mountain in March
Seasonal Tip
Slow and deep is the key—trout are feeding, but they won’t chase far.
Dry Fly
Limited surface action, but watch for Baetis on overcast afternoons.
Nymphing
Small midges and Baetis patterns are your best bet—focus on deep runs and slow seams.
Streamer Fishing
Not a great option right now, but dead-drifting a small streamer can entice an aggressive brown.
Access Points
Blue River Below Green Mountain Reservoir (Tailwater Section)
- Description: Colder, controlled flows, making it a year-round fishery.
- Why Fish Here: Consistently holds quality trout, but they are picky.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Blue River Confluence with the Colorado River
- Description: Where the Blue meets the Colorado—more big fish potential.
- Why Fish Here: More food sources and a mix of fish species.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights
- Artificial flies and lures only—no bait fishing.
- Watch for private property—several sections are off-limits.
- Flows are controlled by dam releases—check the gauge before heading out.
The Blue River below Green Mountain is a challenge right now, but for those willing to adapt to the conditions, there are plenty of fish to be caught. Patience, precision, and a perfect drift are your best friends here.