Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Blue River - Silverthorne - Colorado

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Afternoon 20-24 Zebra Midge, Black Beauty
Leeches All Day 8-12 Pine Squirrel Leech, Mohair Leech
February Midges Afternoon 20-24 Zebra Midge, Mercury Midge
Leeches All Day 8-12 Pine Squirrel Leech, Blood Leech
March Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 20-22 RS2, Pheasant Tail
Midges Afternoon 20-24 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
April Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 20-22 RS2, Mercury Baetis
Caddis Evening 16 Holy Grail, Elk Hair Caddis
May Caddis Evening 16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
Stoneflies Evening 8-10 Rogue Foam Stonefly, Gypsy King
June Stoneflies Morning 8-10 Chubby Chernobyl, Rogue Foam Stonefly
Mayflies Afternoon 14-16 Flashback Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear
July Mayflies Afternoon 14-16 Hare's Ear, Adams
Terrestrials All Day 12-16 Chubby Chernobyl, Hopper
August Terrestrials All Day 12-16 Chubby Chernobyl, Hopper
Tricos Morning 20-24 Trico Spinner, Trico Dun
September Tricos Morning 20-24 Trico Spinner, Trico Dun
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 20-22 BWO Spinner, Pheasant Tail
October Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 20-22 BWO Spinner, RS2
Midges Afternoon 20-24 Zebra Midge, Black Beauty
November Midges Afternoon 20-24 Zebra Midge, Top Secret Midge
Leeches All Day 8-12 Bunny Leech, Mohair Leech
December Midges Afternoon 20-24 Top Secret Midge, Black Beauty
Leeches All Day 8-12 Pine Squirrel Leech, Blood Leech

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

Renowned for its rainbow and brown trout, the Blue River in Silverthorne is a paradise for fly fishing enthusiasts. Some of the finest fishing spots on this river include:

  • The Blue River Tailwater: This area below the Dillon Dam is stocked with ample trout and provides year-round fishing opportunities.
  • The Gore Range Area: Offering a diverse habitat for catching a variety of fish from cutthroats to brookies.
  • The Blue River in Town Silverthorne: Known for trophy-sized trout, this fishing spot is accessible and well-stocked.
  • Green Mountain Reservoir: It’s a great place to fish for lake, rainbow, and brown trouts.

Remember, fly fishing demands knowledge of local restrictions and good manners towards fellow anglers and the environment, so be mindful.

Best Access Points

Experience some of the best fishing Colorado has to offer on the Blue River, located beneath the dams of Dillon and Green Mountain Reservoirs in Silverthorne. Take note of the following access points:

  • Below Dillon Reservoir: Highly pressurized trout are found in the well-maintained tailwater stretch that begins below Dillon Dam and continues to the Green Mountain Reservoir.
  • Blue River Bicentennial Park: Located in Silverthorne, this park has several pools and runs and is fully accessible for fishing.
  • Boulder Creek Campground: Approximately 14 miles north of Silverthorne, this is a prime spot for fly fishing enthusiasts.
  • Green Mountain Reservoir Access: Found at the end of the Blue River, where it enters Green Mountain Reservoir. This section of the river is perfect for all levels of fly fishing experience.

Remember to respect the area’s fishing regulations and always practice catch and release for the benefit of the Blue River’s long-term health.

Local Fish

  • Trout
    1. Rainbow Trout – One of the most sought-after species, rainbow trout are actually not native to Colorado, but they thrive in the Blue River’s cold waters.
    2. Brown Trout – These predatory fish provide a different level of challenge. They’re cunning, voracious, and growing quite large in the deep pools of the Blue River.
    3. Brook Trout – Though smaller in size, Brook Trout often bite generously and are loved for their distinctive pattern.
    4. Greenback Cutthroat Trout – The only trout species native to Colorado, the Greenback Cutthroat is hailed for its stunning beauty and is a prized catch for any fly fisherman.

  • Salamanders – Salamanders are often overlooked, but they are actually a key part of the Blue River ecosystem and can be a fun catch.

  • Mountain Whitefish – These fish are a staple of the Blue River and are a great sport for fly fishing due to their powerful fights.

  • Grayling – Unique for its sail-like dorsal fin, the Grayling is a fantastic species to target for its unusual characteristics.

  • Pike – Well-known for their aggressive nature and large size, Pike give a real thrill to anglers who are up for the challenge on the Blue River.

About The River

The Blue River in Silverthorne is a vibrant, sparkling gem that runs through the heart of Colorado. This trout-laden tributary of the Colorado River was named for its beautiful, clear blue waters.

This area was first inhabited by the Ute Indians, before the discovery of gold in the river in 1859 sparked a rush of prospectors. Silverthorne, founded in the 1880s, was named after Judge Marshal Silverthorn, an early miner in the area

  • 1859: Gold discovered in Blue River
  • 1880s: Silverthorne established, named after Judge Silverthorn
  • 1960s: Development of ski resorts make the area a major winter sports destination

Today, the Blue River is known for its world-class fishing and the surrounding town offers a range of recreational activities.

So, whether for gold, fish, or fun, the Blue River – Silverthorne has a rich and vibrant history that defines its unique charm.

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