Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Los Pinos River - Below Vallecito Reservoir - 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 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
Midges Late Morning #18-22 Black Beauty, Miracle Midge
February Midges Afternoon #20-24 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
Midges Late Morning #18-22 Black Beauty, Miracle Midge
March BWO Afternoon #18-22 Pheasant Tail, Blue Dun
Midges Mid-Morning to Afternoon #20-24 Zebra Midge, Black Beauty
April Midges Afternoon #18-22 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
BWO Late Morning to Early Afternoon #16-20 Blue Dun, Olive Comparadun
May Caddis Evening #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, Green Caddis Larva
BWO Afternoon #16-18 Blue Quill, Sparkle Dun BWO
Stoneflies Afternoon #8-14 Sixpack Stone, Golden Stone
June Stoneflies All Day #8-14 Sixpack Stone, Golden Stone
Caddis Evening #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
PMD Mid-Morning #14-18 PMD Emerger, Rusty Spinner
July PMD Early Afternoon #16-20 PMD Comparadun, BWO Emerger
Terrestrials Late Morning to Afternoon #10-16 Dave's Hopper, Ant Patterns
August Tricos Morning #20-24 Trico Spinner, Double-wing Trico
Terrestrials All Day #10-16 Beetle Patterns, Dave's Hopper
Hoppers All Day #8-12 Parachute Hopper, Foam Hopper
September Terrestrials All Day #10-16 Ant Patterns, Dave's Hopper
BWO Afternoon #18-22 Blue Winged Olive, Pheasant Tail
October Midges Afternoon #20-24 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
BWO Afternoon #18-22 Quill Gordon, Blue Dun
November Midges Afternoon #20-24 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
BWO Afternoon #20-24 Blue Dun, Pheasant Tail
December Midges Afternoon #20-24 Black Beauty, Miracle Midge
Midgeling Afternoon #18-22 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra 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

The Los Pinos River below Vallecito Reservoir in Colorado is a highly revered spot for fly fishing boasting excellent trout populations. Here are the best spots for the activity:

  • Lower Pine River: This stretch of the river below the dam is accessible from the nearby road. Known for its large rainbow and brook trout.
  • Vallecito Creek: This tributary to Los Pinos River contains smaller trout but offers excellent solitude compared to other locations.
  • Upper Pine River: This area is challenging to reach due to private properties surrounding it, however, it offers great opportunities for catching large cutthroat trout.

All these spots feature clean, fast-flowing water, varying depths and boulder-strewn pools, making them irresistible for fly fishing enthusiasts. It is advised to regard all local fishing regulations and respect private property when accessing fishing spots.

Best Access Points

The Los Pinos River – Below Vallecito Reservoir is a stellar location for fly fishing. Here are some top access points:

  • Vallecito Campground: It offers stress-free river access for fly fishing. The river here teems with brook and rainbow trout.
  • Pine River Campground: Just below the dam, accessible via CR 501. You need to hike in a distance to reach the spots, but the secluded fishing is worth it.
  • Florida River Confluence: Fish the confluence where the Florida River meets the Los Pinos just south off County Road 501.
  • Texas Hole: An excellent spot, upstream of the bridge on CR 400 where you’ll find a deep pool inhabited by large trout.
  • Public Access Point off CR 500: A spot that’s less crowded, with ample wade-accessible fishing areas.

Remember: Respect private property and always check the local regulations before fishing.

Local Fish

  • Rainbow Trout: The most common type of fish in the river, and a favorite for fly fishers because of its beautiful scales and aggressive nature.
  • Brown Trout: Another famed fish among fly fishing enthusiasts, it loves hiding in the deeper, slower-moving sections of the river.
  • Brook Trout: These small and speckled fish are found in the colder, clear running waters of the river.
  • Mountain Whitefish: These fish are found in most of the same places as trout but are often overlooked by anglers because of their smaller size and less aggressive nature.
  • Cutthroat Trout: This native trout species is usually found in the more remote and high elevation segments of the Los Pinos River.
  • Yellow Perch: These hard-fighting little fish are a good option for beginner fly fishers or those looking for action.
  • Green Sunfish: These vibrant fish offer a fun diversion from the standard trout fishing on the river.
  • Bluegill: Larger members of the sunfish family, these are a challenging catch on a fly rod.

About The River

The Los Pinos River, or Pine River, is a hidden treasure nestled below the Vallecito Reservoir in Southwest Colorado. The history of the river dates back thousands of years when it was richly utilized by the Pueblo and Navajo tribes. It was later explored by Spanish explorers in search of gold.

Flanked by stunning mountains and valleys, the river offers plenty of activities.

  • Exceptional fishing, famed for its trout populations.
  • Immerse yourself in the tranquil waters with a leisurely float.
  • Experience wildlife in their natural habitat. You’ll often spot deer, elk, or birds of prey!

Today, the river is maintained by the United States Forest Service, aimed at preserving its natural beauty and rich ecology. From its early recognition by Native American tribes to its current recreational use, the Los Pinos River continues to be a serene and scenic natural heritage site.

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