.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")
.png)
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.
Flows are low and the fish are sharp. The Blue River below Dillon Dam is running with tailwater clarity and tailwater attitude. This stretch isn’t about quantity — it’s about outsmarting trout that have seen everything, twice.
Expect technical drifts, light tippet, and small flies. Fish are holding in slower seams and feeding selectively on midges and BWOs. If you're not changing flies or depth every 20 minutes, you're probably missing fish.
Listen to the Podcast
Conditions Summary
%20(3).png?width=800&height=175&name=Guide%20Rating%20(800%20x%20175%20px)%20(3).png)
- Flow Rate: ~90 CFS at Dillon (USGS 09050700)
- Water Temp: 36–40°F
- Air Temp: 50s midday
- Clarity: Clear
- Best Times to Fish: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Blue River Hatch Chart (Mar–May)
| Month | Primary Hatches | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mar | Midges | All-day action in slow water |
| Apr | Midges, BWOs | Cloudy afternoons fish well |
| May | BWOs, Mysis, Caddis | Caddis starting late May below town |
Top 3 Flies for May
Dry Fly: Sparkle Dun BWO #20–22 — slow seams and shallow tailouts.
Nymph: Epoxy Mysis #18 — a must-use just below the dam.
Streamer: Thin Mint #8 — worth a shot on overcast days, especially downstream.
Tips Fly Fishing the Blue
- Seasonal Tip: Flows are technical; stealth and accurate casts matter more than fly choice.
- Dry Fly: Match midges or BWOs in slack eddies. Single fly only — no indicator.
- Nymphing: Use 5x–6x, long leaders, and tungsten patterns. Focus on seams and shelves.
- Streamer Fishing: Low light helps. Swing and strip small, buggy streamers through deeper runs.
-1.png?width=600&height=400&name=fly%20fishing%20in%20colorado%20(40)-1.png)
Access Points
- Dillon Dam Outlet
Why fish here: Consistent flows, Mysis-rich.
Location: Map
Rating: 4.5/5 - Silverthorne River Trail
Why fish here: Easy access, sight fishing.
Location: Map
Rating: 3.5/5 - North Silverthorne Pull-Offs
Why fish here: Less pressure, good technical water.
Location: Map
Rating: 4/5
Local Regulations and Landowner Notes
- Catch and release only from Dillon Dam downstream through Silverthorne.
- Artificial flies and lures only.
- Be cautious around private property; stick to the river trail when in doubt.
FAQ on the Blue River at Silverthorne
What fly works best right now?
A #22 black Zebra Midge under a small indicator is money.
Can you fish right behind the outlet mall?
Yes — but so does everyone else. Expect pressure.
Is it worth fishing with low flows?
Yes. Low water gives you visibility and sight fishing opportunities — just bring your A-game.
