Fishing Report: Blue River in Silverthorne

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.

Flowing out of Dillon Reservoir, the Blue River is a well-known tailwater fishery prized for its cold, clear waters and large, wary trout. Below the dam, you'll find trophy-sized rainbow and brown trout, with the best fishing happening in the afternoons as the water warms slightly. Mysis Shrimp and midges are staple food sources, and precise presentations with light tippets are critical.

Blue River Fishing Report – Near Dillon Dam at Silverthorne – December 2024

The Blue River near Dillon Dam in Silverthorne remains one of Colorado’s iconic tailwaters, offering year-round fly fishing opportunities in a stunning alpine setting. Flows are steady at 50-80 CFS, providing ideal water clarity but making conditions technical. The river is cold, hovering around 34-38°F, which keeps trout concentrated in slower runs and deeper pools. This stretch is famous for its large, picky trout, often requiring a stealthy approach and precise fly selection.

Late morning to early afternoon is the best window for activity as the sun warms the water slightly, prompting trout to feed on midges and the occasional Blue Wing Olive. Nymphing is the most consistent approach, while small streamers can tempt aggressive fish in deeper holding water. Anglers willing to embrace the challenge of picky trout and cold conditions will find this stretch as rewarding as it is scenic.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 50-80 CFS
• Water Temperature: 34-38°F
• Clarity: Crystal clear
• Best Times: Late morning to early afternoon
• Current Conditions Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½ (3.5/5) – Technical fishing with a chance to hook trophy trout, but cold water and picky fish require patience.
  
  

River Flow Chart

Blue River Hatch Chart (Near Dillon Dam)

Top 3 Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Griffith’s Gnat (#20-24) – Effective during brief midge hatches in calmer water.
• Nymph: Black Beauty (#20-24) – A staple for targeting picky trout in deeper seams.
• Streamer: Olive Sculpin (#8-10) – Great for coaxing larger trout from undercut banks or deep pools.
  
  

Tips Fly Fishing on the Blue River Near Dillon Dam

Seasonal Tip
Low flows and cold water make stealth and precision essential. Use longer leaders, lighter tippet, and delicate presentations to avoid spooking trout.

Dry Fly
Look for sporadic midge hatches in slower, calmer water during sunny afternoons. Small, delicate dries like Griffith’s Gnats work best.

Nymphing
A double-nymph rig featuring a Black Beauty and a Zebra Midge is highly effective. Add weight to reach the bottom of slow runs and deeper pools where trout are feeding.

Streamer Fishing
Small streamers like Olive Sculpins or Woolly Buggers can entice larger trout, especially early or late in the day. Keep retrieves slow and deliberate.

Access Points

Silverthorne Outlets Area

• Description: Easy access near the town center, with riffles, runs, and pools.
• Why Fish Here: Well-known for large, selective trout and consistent year-round fishing.
• Location: Near the Silverthorne Outlets in downtown Silverthorne, CO.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Wildernest Bridge

• Description: A quieter section with slower runs and good holding water.
• Why Fish Here: Great for targeting trout in less-pressured water.
• Location: Near Wildernest Road, west of Silverthorne.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½

Upstream of Blue River Parkway

• Description: Scenic stretch with deeper pools and riffles, ideal for nymphing.
• Why Fish Here: Perfect for experienced anglers seeking technical fishing.
• Location: Along Blue River Parkway, south of Dillon Dam.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
  
  

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

The Blue River near Dillon Dam is a gold-medal fishery with designated public access points. Catch-and-release is strongly encouraged to preserve the trophy trout population, and barbless hooks are recommended. Stick to public areas and respect private property boundaries.