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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. Flowing through rugged canyons and picturesque valleys, this stretch of the Blue offers anglers excellent opportunities to target wild rainbows and browns in a tranquil, scenic setting. The river’s cold, oxygen-rich water supports year-round fishing, with midges, Blue Wing Olives, and streamers being the most effective patterns in late fall. Whether nymphing deep runs or stalking rising fish during midday hatches, this section promises technical challenges and rewarding catches amidst stunning alpine surroundings.
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Blue River Fishing Report – Below Green Mountain Reservoir – November 2024
The Blue River below Green Mountain Reservoir is the perfect late-fall escape for anglers seeking solitude and technical fishing. With flows around 125-175 CFS, the water is ideal for wading, and the trout are active, though selective. Rainbows and browns are holding in deep pools and along the seams, feeding steadily on midges and Blue Wing Olives. The colder water temperatures mean the trout are a bit more sluggish, so patience and precision are key.
This tailwater stretch offers excellent nymphing opportunities, with midday hatches occasionally bringing trout to the surface for BWOs. Early morning and late afternoon are also great times for streamer action, as larger browns become more aggressive in preparation for winter. For the best experience, focus on slower water and deeper runs where trout are congregating.
Conditions Summary
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- Flow Rate: 125-175 CFS
- Water Temperature: 38-42°F
- Clarity: Slightly tinted, but mostly clear
- Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
- Current Conditions Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Productive fishing with great opportunities for nymphing and occasional surface action.
River Flow Chart
Blue River Hatch Chart (Below Green Mountain)
| Month | Primary Hatches | Effective Patterns |
|---|---|---|
| March | Midges, Baetis (BWO) | Zebra Midges (#20-24), Blue Wing Olive (#18-22) |
| April | Midges, Baetis, Caddis | Black Beauty (#18-22), Elk Hair Caddis (#16-18) |
| May | Baetis, Caddis, Stoneflies | Blue Wing Olive (#18-20), Pat’s Rubber Legs (#10-12) |
| June | Caddis, PMDs | Elk Hair Caddis (#16), PMD Comparadun (#16-18) |
| July | Yellow Sallies, PMDs | Yellow Sally (#14-16), PMD Emerger (#18-20) |
| August | Tricos, Caddis, Terrestrials | Trico Spinner (#22-24), Parachute Hopper (#10-12) |
| September | BWOs, Midges, Caddis | BWO Parachute (#18-22), Black Ant (#18-20) |
| October | BWOs, Midges | Blue Wing Olive (#18-22), Zebra Midge (#20-24) |
| November | BWOs, Midges | BWO Emerger (#18-22), Black Beauty (#20-24) |
| December - February | Midges | Griffith’s Gnat (#20-24), WD-40 (#18-22) |
Top 3 Flies for the Week
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- Dry Fly: Blue Wing Olive (#18-22) – Midday hatches in calm pools are ideal for this pattern.
- Nymph: Black Beauty (#20-24) – A staple in deeper runs and riffles.
- Streamer: Olive Sculpzilla (#8-10) – Works well near structure and deeper pools, especially early or late in the day.
Tips Fly Fishing Below Green Mountain Reservoir
Seasonal Tip
The colder water temperatures call for slower retrieves and subtle presentations. Focus on deep pools and seams for consistent action.
Dry Fly
Look for sparse Blue Wing Olive hatches around midday. Trout will rise in calmer pockets, but approach with stealth to avoid spooking them.
Nymphing
A double-nymph rig with a Black Beauty and Zebra Midge is highly effective. Use enough weight to get your flies to the bottom where trout are feeding.
Streamer Fishing
Larger trout can be coaxed out with streamers like an Olive Sculpzilla or Black Woolly Bugger. Fish slower water near structure and focus on a steady retrieve.
Access Points
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The confluence of Blue River and Colorado River
- Description: Where the Blue meets the Colorado, offering great water diversity.
- Why Fish Here: Larger trout tend to congregate here, providing opportunities for nymphing and streamer fishing.
- Location: Near Kremmling, CO.
- Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trough Road Access
- Description: Scenic and less crowded, with good riffles and pools.
- Why Fish Here: Excellent for nymphing, with steady trout activity in deeper runs.
- Location: Off Trough Road, near Green Mountain Reservoir.
- Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Green Mountain Tailwater
- Description: Tailwater section offering steady flows and accessible fishing.
- Why Fish Here: Known for its productive nymphing and occasional surface action.
- Location: Below Green Mountain Dam.
- Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights
The Blue River below Green Mountain Reservoir is a tailwater fishery with public access at designated points. Respect private property boundaries, and always carry a valid Colorado fishing license. Catch-and-release practices and barbless hooks are strongly recommended to preserve the trout population.
Source: Colorado Division of Natural Resources River Flow Station Reprort
