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The Blue River from Silverthorne to Green Mountain Reservoir is a moody stretch of water—it can be rewarding, frustrating, or both in the same day. With low, clear flows, these fish aren’t making things easy. Stealth, patience, and small flies are the name of the game.
As we transition into March, Baetis and midges dominate the trout menu, while the occasional streamer bite might surprise you. Nymphing remains the most consistent method, but on warmer afternoons, keep an eye out for emerging BWOs in slower seams. If you're up for a technical challenge, this stretch will test your skills—but hooking into a Blue River trout makes it all worth it.
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Conditions Summary
- Flow Rate: 50-80 CFS (Low and clear)
- Water Temperature: 36-40°F
- Clarity: Gin clear—stealth required
- Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
- Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5 – Challenging, but rewarding for technical anglers)
River Flow Chart
Source: Colorado DWR River Station Reports
Blue River Hatch Chart
| Month | Primary Hatches | Effective Patterns |
|---|---|---|
| February (Previous Month) | Midges, Baetis, Mysis Shrimp (near Silverthorne) | Zebra Midge (#20-24), RS2 (#20-22), Mysis Shrimp (#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 on cloudy afternoons when BWOs are emerging.
- Nymph: Pheasant Tail (#16-20) – Reliable for imitating Baetis and small stoneflies.
- Streamer: Mini Leech (#10-12) – Slow retrieves in deep runs can move the bigger fish.
Tips for Fly Fishing the Blue River Between Silverthorne and Green Mountain Reservoir in March
Seasonal Tip
Mornings are still cold, but afternoons can bring rising fish—watch for BWOs and midges in the slack water.
Dry Fly
Look for occasional Baetis hatches in slower seams and back eddies, but don’t expect consistent dry fly action yet.
Nymphing
The most productive approach—small Baetis and midge nymphs fished deep are the key to success.
Streamer Fishing
Not a numbers game, but larger browns may chase small leeches or sculpins in deeper holes.
Access Points
Silverthorne Public Access (Below Dillon Dam)
- Description: Tailwater section with year-round fishing and big trout.
- Why Fish Here: Consistently cold water and a reliable mysis shrimp hatch.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Blue River State Wildlife Area (Mid-Section)
- Description: More remote, with a mix of pocket water and deep pools.
- Why Fish Here: Less pressured water, but requires more hiking.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Green Mountain Reservoir Inlet
- Description: Transition water where the river meets the reservoir.
- Why Fish Here: Fish staging before entering the lake—potential for bigger fish.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights
- Artificial flies and lures only—no bait fishing.
- Barbless hooks required in some sections—check signage.
- Private property exists along this stretch—stay in public access areas.
- Flows are controlled by releases from Dillon and Green Mountain Reservoirs—check gauges before heading out.
The Blue River between Silverthorne and Green Mountain is not a numbers game in March, but if you’re looking for technical fishing, selective trout, and rewarding takes, this stretch delivers in spades.
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