Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Boulder Creek - Canyon - 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 Midge Midday #18-22 Griffith's Gnat
Blue Wing Olive Afternoon #16-20 Parachute BWO
February Midge Midday #18-22 Zebra Midge
Blue Wing Olive Afternoon #16-20 BWO Emerger
March Midge All Day #18-22 Black Beauty
Blue Wing Olive Afternoon #16-20 BWO Extended body
April Midge All Day #18-22 Disco Midge
Blue Wing Olive Afternoon to Early Evening #16-20 BWO Last Chance Cripple
May Caddis and Stoneflies Morning to Midday #12-16 Elk Hair Caddis
Midge and BWO Afternoon to Dusk #16-22 BWO Sparkle Dun
June Yellow Sally and Green Drakes Midday #10-14 Yellow Stimulator
Caddis Early Morning and Dusk #14-16 Godard Caddis
July Yellow Sally and PMD Morning to Midday #14-18 Yellow Humpy
Caddis Early Morning and Dusk #14-16 X-Caddis
August Caddis and Yellow Sally Early Morning and Dusk #14-16 Parachute Caddis
Terrestrials All Day #10-14 Dave's Hopper
September Caddis and PMD Morning to Midday #16-20 CDC PMD
Terrestrials All Day #10-14 Chernobyl Ant
October BWO and Midges Midday #18-22 Rs2
Streamers All Day #4-8 Wooly Bugger
November BWO and Midges Midday #18-22 BWO Thorax Dun
Streamers All Day #4-8 Pine Squirrel Leech
December Midge Midday #18-22 Miracle Midge
Streamers All Day #4-8 Micro Bugger

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

The Boulder Creek-Canyon offers some of the best spots for fly fishing, abounded with diverse fish species like rainbow trout, brown trout, and mountain whitefish.

  • The Eleven Mile Canyon stretch is a perfect spot. The South Platte flowing through offers a steady supply of big and healthy trout. Fly fishers can easily access the creek for the 10-mile stretch.

  • Canyon Mouth is known for its high-density fish population and clear, narrow waters making it an ideal spot to fish rainbow and brown trout.

  • For a serene and secluded experience, make your way to the Upper Boulder Creek-Canyon, reach via a hiking trail located off the Peak to Peak Highway.

Remember, different sections of the Boulder Creek-Canyon require different fishing techniques, and always ensure to carry a local fishing license.

Best Access Points

Among the best access points to fly fish on the Boulder Creek – Canyon are listed below:

  • Settler’s Park: A popular fly fishing access point in Boulder Creek.
  • Eben G. Fine Park: This offers a picnic area and easy river access, perfect for an afternoon of fishing.
  • Fourmile Canyon Drive: Pullouts along this road offer excellent access points to the creek.
  • Boulder Canyon Drive: There are several pull-offs to park and gain access to different parts of the creek.

Use appropriate fly fishing gear and follow local regulations. The creek is populated with brown trout and rainbow trout.

Local Fish

On the Boulder Creek – Canyon, fly fishing enthusiasts commonly target various species of fish. Here are the top 8:

  • Brown Trout: Known for their impressive sizes and vigorous fights, they present a challenge for sports fishers.
  • Rainbow Trout: An all-time favorite among fly fishers for their vibrant colorings and challenging catches.
  • Cutthroat Trout: Named for the distinctive red streaks on the undersides of their jaws, they thrive in the cold waters of the Boulder Creek – Canyon.
  • Brook Trout: These fish prefer the clear, cold, spring-fed waters, making them an attractive catch for fly fishers.
  • Rio Grande Cichlid: Record sizes for this freshwater fish reach above 2 lbs.
  • Mountain Whitefish: A native fish of the cold, clean rivers and streams that Boulder Creek – Canyon offers.
  • Green Sunfish: Known for their fighting abilities, they are exciting to catch on light tackle.
  • Bluegill: Abundantly found in the waters of Boulder Creek – Canyon, they are a common target for fly fishers of all skill levels.

About The River

Boulder Creek – Canyon is a treasure in the heartland of Colorado, offering unparalleled beauty and rich history. This area’s story began millions of years ago when the sedimentary rocks were carved by glacier movements, creating the picturesque canyons we see today.

The history of human settlement in the area can be traced back to the Native American tribes, such as the Arapaho and Cheyenne, who initially used the canyon as a hunting ground. In the mid-19th century, the canyon’s abundant gold deposits attracted prospectors, leading to the famed Colorado Gold Rush.

Today, Boulder Creek Canyon is cherished for its outdoor attractions. Highlights include:

  • Rock climbing – the canyon walls provide diverse routes for all levels.
  • Hiking and biking – miles of trails wind through forests, streams, and waterfalls.
This pristine jewel in Boulder, Colorado serves as a living testament to nature’s grandeur and the enduring human spirit.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

Recent Articles

Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons

Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons

Hip Waders or Chest Waders? Choosing the right gear for fly fishing can make all the difference in…

Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions

Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions

Welcome to fly tying: How to tie a Pheasant Tail Nymph! If you’re new here or a seasoned…