Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Gore Creek - Vail - 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 Mid-day 18-24 Griffith's Gnat, Black Beauty
February Midges Mid-day 18-24 Zebra Midge, Foamback Midge
March Midges, Blue Winged Olives Mid-day 18-22 Rusty Spinner, Rojo Midge
April Midges Mid-day 18-24 Black Beauty, Miracle Midge
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-20 Sparkle Dun, RS2
May Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-20 Parachute BWO, Barr's Emerger
Caddis Evening 14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, Sparkle Pupa
Stoneflies All Day 6-12 Pat's Rubber Leg, Stimulator
June Green Drakes Afternoon 10-14 Parachute Drake, Green Drake Cripple
Caddis Evening 14-18 Godzilla Caddis, Buckskin Caddis
PMD (Pale Morning Dun) Morning-Afternoon 16-20 PMD Comparadun, PMD Barr Emerger
July Caddis Evening 14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
PMD (Pale Morning Dun) Morning-Afternoon 16-20 Sparkle Dun PMD, Flashback Pheasant Tail
August Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) All Day 10-16 Parachute Hopper, Foam Beetle
September Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 18-22 Parachute BWO, RS2
October Midges, Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midge, Baetis Nymph
November Midges Mid-day 18-24 Mercury Midge, Black Beauty
December Midges Mid-day 18-24 Griffith's Gnat, Top Secret Midge

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

Are you a fly fishing enthusiast planning a trip to Vail? Gore Creek is one of the most beautiful and fruitful fly fishing locations in the region. Here are some of the best spots:

  • East Vail: From Black Gore Creek’s confluence in East Vail, you have a great opportunity to catch brown trout, rainbow trout, and brook trout. Enjoy fishing amidst the scenic landscape.
  • Vail Village: The creek snakes through Vail Village, providing easy access for fly-fishing. It’s a perfect spot if you don’t want to stray too far from the city.
  • Lionshead: This area near the Lionshead village is another convenient location to fish, especially for those who are staying nearby.
  • West Vail: With access points scattered along the Frontage Road in West Vail, this section offers magnificent trout fishing experiences.
Also, remember to pay heed to local fishing regulations to ensure a respectful and rewarding fishing experience.

Best Access Points

The Gore Creek in Vail, Colorado offers excellent fly fishing adventures. Here are the best access points:

  • East Vail: You can access the upper stretches of the creek here for some fantastic fly fishing. It is located right off Bighorn Road.
  • Ford Park: Positioned at the heart of Vail, Ford Park provides easy access to the creek with ample parking and amenities.
  • Vail Village: The creek runs right through Vail Village, making it an accessible spot for fly fishing.
  • Lionshead: This area is another great spot with easy access points along the pedestrian path.
  • Matterhorn: This location is somewhat secluded, offering quieter fishing within the Vail town limits. You can access it off of Red Sandstone Road.
  • West Vail: You can find multiple access points at West Vail, off the North/South Frontage Roads.

Local Fish

  • Blue Rainbow Trout: Known for their vigorous challenges and beautiful coloration, Blue Rainbow Trout are a top pick for Gore Creek fly fishing.
  • Brown Trout: Hardy and aggressive, Brown Trout are often targeted by experienced fly fishers for their interesting patterns and large size.
  • Brook Trout: These fish are readily found in Gore Creek’s crystal-clear waters and are characterized by their unique, colorful markings.
  • Cutthroat Trout: Named for the distinctive reddish markings on its throat, the Cutthroat Trout is a prized catch in Colorado’s high-country waterways like Gore Creek.
  • Whitefish: Known for their acrobatic leaps, Whitefish are a treat to catch on the fly. Despite their name, they actually have a silvery gray coloration.
  • Mountain Sucker: Though less commonly targeted, Mountain Sucker enjoys living in fast, turbulent waters, making Gore Creek an excellent habitat for these fish.
  • Sculpin: Preferring rocky environments, Sculpin can be found in abundance in Gore Creek. Fly fishers often use Sculpin patterns to successfully lure larger fish species.
  • Greenback Cutthroat Trout: Endemic to the Colorado Rocky Mountain area, the Greenback Cutthroat Trout is a favorite among fly fishers for its large size and resilience.

About The River

The charming Gore Creek in Vail, Colorado, isn’t just a picturesque beauty – it has an exciting history too! This majestic creek got its name from Sir St. George Gore, an Irish baronet who visited the area during his three-year-long hunting trip in the mid-1800s.

At the heart of Vail, the glistening Gore Creek serves as a haven for both locals and tourists. Known for its top-tier fly fishing waters, it’s brimming with rainbow and brown trout, inviting fishing enthusiasts from around the world.

Here are some impressive facts about Vail’s Gore Creek:

  • It’s part of the Gore Creek Watershed – spanning over 102 miles.
  • The creek plays a vital role in the town’s water supply.
  • Gore Creek contributes to the overall health of the picturesque Eagle River.

Today, Vail’s Gore Creek stands not just as a natural wonder, but a testament to the region’s rich past and dedication to conservation.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

Recent Articles

Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons
Gear ReviewsFly Fishing

Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons

April 20, 2024

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

Read More
Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions
Fly TyingFly Fishing

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

April 18, 2024

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

Read More

Fly Tying Articles

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

April 18, 2024