Crack the Code on the Blue River Hatch

Blue River
Hatch Chart 2026

From tailwater midges to summertime hoppers, the Blue River makes you earn every take. Fish smarter with our full hatch chart and fly matching tips.

The Blue River tailwaters are legendary for their consistent hatches. Whether you're nymphing below Green Mountain Reservoir or swinging dries near Silverthorne, knowing when insects hatch is crucial. Use our refreshed 2026 Blue River hatch chart to time your trips, select the right flies, and fish confidently month by month.

Hatch Charts

 

 

2026 Blue River Hatch Chart: Crack the Code on Monthly Fly Hatches

The Blue River is a classic Colorado tailwater where consistency comes from understanding subtle hatch timing rather than chasing big bug events. Cold, dam-regulated flows create year-round midge activity, with dependable Blue Winged Olive hatches during stable periods and limited seasonal opportunities for larger insects.

This Blue River hatch chart breaks down the most reliable hatches by month and highlights fly patterns that consistently produce on this highly technical fishery.

 

View the Blue River Fly Fishing Report Here. 

South Platte River Hatch Chart – By Month

Blue River Angler’s Hatch and Rigging Chart

 

Learn the Bugs, Land the Fish

The Blue River rewards anglers who treat it like a technical tailwater, not a freestone. Fish smaller than you think, use light tippet, and focus on clean drifts through soft water. Midges will produce almost every month of the year, while BWOs provide your best dry fly opportunities when flows and weather align.

Fly Pattern Cheat Sheet Table
Month Hatch Type Best Flies Sizes
January Midges Zebra Midge, RS2 20–26
April BWO Sparkle Dun, Juju Baetis 18–22
June Caddis, PMD Elk Hair Caddis, Barr’s Emerger 14–18
August Blue-Winged Olives Sparkle Dun, BWO Spinner 18–20
October Midge & PMD Zirdle Midge, RS2 Emerger 20–24
FAQs About Blue River Hatches in 2026

  • Q: When do Blue River midges hatch most consistently?
    A: Midge activity on the Blue River is strong from January through April, especially early in the morning and late afternoon.

  • Q: Where does the Blue River have the best flows for hatches?
    A: Tailwaters below Green Mountain Reservoir and six-mile canyon near Heeney offer year-round hatches, thanks to stable flows.

  • Q: Should I fish dries or nymphs on the Blue River?
    A: During peak hatches (May–July), dries like Sparkle Duns and Juju Baetis work best. In winter and early spring, midging with nymphs like RS2 and Zebra Midge is more effective.