Winter Fly Fishing Tips for the Blue River in Silverthorne in March

The Blue River near Silverthorne is a catch-and-release fishery, and anglers are encouraged to use barbless hooks. Respect the private property boundaries along certain sections and use designated public access points. Always carry a valid Colorado fishing license and practice responsible fishing to protect this unique tailwater environment.

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March on the Blue River below Dillon Dam is as technical as it gets—low, gin-clear water, selective tailwater trout, and anglers who could moonlight as snipers with their casting accuracy. If you’re here for an easy day, you’re in the wrong place. That being said, if you love a challenge, this stretch is one of Colorado’s most rewarding fisheries—assuming you have 6X tippet, a perfect drift, and a little bit of luck.

Flows are low and stable, meaning stealth is everything. Midges are still the dominant hatch, but Baetis are beginning to stir, especially on cloudy afternoons. The dry fly bite is still limited, but patient nymph anglers can find success with small midges and emergers. Streamer fishing? Not your best bet here—these trout didn’t get big by chasing flashy flies.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 45-60 CFS (Very low, ultra-technical)
• Water Temperature: 36-40°F
• Clarity: Crystal clear—fish are easily spooked
• Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
• Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5 – Low flows and spooky fish make this a true technical challenge)

River Flow Chart

Blue River Hatch Chart

Top Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Blue Wing Olive (#18-22) – Best on cloudy afternoons when BWOs are emerging.
• Nymph: Mysis Shrimp (#16-18) – Key pattern near the dam where mysis shrimp get flushed through.
• Streamer: Mini Leech (#10-12) – Only effective in deeper pools with slow, natural movement.

Tips for Fly Fishing the Blue River Near Dillon Dam in March

Seasonal Tip

Stealth is everything—light tippet, long leaders, and a flawless drift are required to fool these fish.

Dry Fly

Not much action yet, but watch for BWOs on overcast afternoons.

Nymphing

The best strategy—stick with small midges, Baetis, and mysis shrimp near the dam.

Streamer Fishing

Not a great choice, but if you’re determined, go with small, natural streamers fished deep.

Access Points

Below Dillon Dam (Tailwater Section)

• Description: Cold, clear water with a mix of runs, riffles, and deep pools.
• Why Fish Here: Big, educated trout that require precision casting and technical skill.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Silverthorne Public Access

• Description: Easily accessible, but also heavily pressured.
• Why Fish Here: Best chance at seeing big fish, but they are extremely selective.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Hamilton Creek Confluence (Downstream)

• Description: More structure and deeper holding water.
• Why Fish Here: Less pressure, but requires more effort to find fish.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

• Artificial flies and lures only—no bait fishing.
• Barbless hooks required.
• Mysis shrimp are a major food source below the dam, making them a key fly pattern.
• Be mindful of private property—stick to public access areas.

The Blue River below Dillon Dam is not an easy fishery, but for those willing to work for it, the rewards are huge. It’s all about precision, patience, and a little bit of luck.