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Nestled in the heart of Summit County, Colorado, the Blue River offers a fly fishing experience unlike any other. Flowing from Hoosier Pass, through Breckenridge and Silverthorne, and eventually reaching the Colorado River, this 65-mile stretch of river is a paradise for anglers. Known for its stunning scenery and abundance of trout, including Rainbow, Brown, and the elusive Cutthroat, the Blue River provides year-round fishing opportunities for novices and seasoned anglers alike.
Best Fishing Sections
The Blue River is divided into three main sections, each with unique fishing conditions:
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Upper Blue River (Hoosier Pass to Dillon Reservoir): A perfect spot for wading, this stretch offers excellent access to high-quality trout fishing near Breckenridge. The river's clear, cold waters make it ideal for catching Brook and Rainbow Trout.
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Middle Blue River (Silverthorne to Green Mountain Reservoir): This tailwater section, particularly below Dillon Reservoir, is renowned for its large Rainbow Trout, often found near the Silverthorne Outlet Stores. Anglers should use small midge patterns here, as the trout are educated and picky.
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Lower Blue River (Green Mountain Reservoir to Kremmling): Flowing through a steep canyon, this stretch features some of the largest trout in the river. Fishing in this section is more secluded and can be challenging, but the rewards are worth it, especially during summer hatches of Caddis and Stoneflies.
Flies to Use
The Blue River sees a variety of insect hatches throughout the year, making fly selection crucial:
- Mysis Shrimp (#18-20): Found below the Dillon Reservoir, these shrimp are a staple in trout diets.
- Blue Wing Olive (#16-22): Effective during the spring and fall seasons.
- Midges (#18-26): Great for winter fishing, particularly in tailwater sections.
- Caddis (#14-18): Best used during the summer months, especially in the lower Blue.
Best Time to Fish
Though the Blue River offers year-round fly fishing, the best times to fish are in early summer when water flows are higher due to dam releases, and in the fall during the Blue Wing Olive hatch. Winter also provides a unique opportunity, as river sections remain ice-free, allowing for fishing even during ski season.
Tips for Success
Fishing the Blue River requires a mix of patience and finesse. In areas like Silverthorne, where the trout are highly educated, using light tippets (4x to 6x) and small flies (midge patterns) is essential. When targeting larger fish in deeper runs, persistence is key, as these trout are wary and require a stealthy approach.
Conservation and Etiquette
As one of Colorado’s most popular fly-fishing rivers, respecting other anglers and practicing catch-and-release is vital. Be sure to follow local fishing regulations, avoid crowded spots, and engage with ongoing conservation efforts to preserve the river's ecosystem.
Pro Tips
The Blue River offers fly fishers a perfect blend of accessibility, beauty, and the chance to catch trophy trout. Whether you're wading near Breckenridge or floating through the canyons near Kremmling, the Blue River promises a memorable fly fishing experience in the heart of Colorado's mountains.
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