Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Middle Fork South Platte - Prince - 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 Throughout the day 18-22 Griffith's Gnat, Black Beauty
Blue-Winged Olive Midday 18-20 Pheasant Tail, RSII
February Midges Throughout day 18-22 Zebra Midges, Disco Midge
Blue-Winged Olive Late Afternoon 18-20 Mercury Baetis, FB Pheasant Tail
March Midges Throughout day 18-22 Ghost Midge, Palomino Midge
Blue-Winged Olive Afternoon 16-20 BWO Emerger, BWO Parachute
April Midges Throughout day 18-22 Copper Ribbed RS2, Mercury Midge
Blue-Winged Olive Afternoon 16-20 Irrisitable Adams, BWO Cripple
Caddis Evening 14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, Goddard Caddis
May Midges Throughout day 18-22 Brassie, Crystal Midge Pupa
Blue-Winged Olive Afternoon 16-20 Henryville Special, BWO Sparkle Dun
Caddis Evening 14-18 Easy Body Caddis, Partridge Caddis
Stoneflies Nighttime 8-12 Stimulator, Gypsy King
June Green Drake Afternoon 10-14 PMD Sparkle Dun, Green Drake Cripple
Caddis Evening 14-18 Trude, LaFontaine's Sparkle Pupa
Stoneflies Nighttime 8-12 Bitch Creek Stone, Golden Stone
July Caddis Evening 14-18 Flasback Hares Ear, Peacock Caddis
Stoneflies Nighttime 8-12 Salmonfly, Yellow Sally
Pale Morning Dun Afternoon 16-18 Rusty Spinner, PMD Thorax
August Caddis Evening 14-18 Kingrey's Better Foam Caddis, Grillos Hi-Vis Caddis
Hoppers/Beetles/Ants Throughout day 10-16 Chubby Chernobyl, Hippie Stomper
Trico Morning 20-24 Trico Spinner, CDC Trico Dun
September Blue-Winged Olive Afternoon 18-22 Comparadun BWO, Juju Baetis
Caddis Evening 14-18 Mathews' X Caddis, Mother's Day Caddis
Hoppers/Beetles/Ants Throughout day 10-16 Chernobyl Hopper, Foam Beetle
October Blue-Winged Olive Late Afternoon 18-22 RV Baetis, Split Case BWO
Caddis Evening 14-18 H&L Variant, Hemingway Caddis
November Midges Midday 18-24 Miracle Midge, Jujubee Midge
Blue-Winged Olive Midday 18-22 Parks' Fly, Blue Dun
December Midges Midday 18-22 Blood Midge Larva, Mercury Midge
Blue-Winged Olive Mornings 18-22 Spent Partridge May, Spent Wing BWO

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

Fly fishing enthusiasts will find Middle Fork South Platte – Prince a haven with several great spots for indulging their passion. Here are some of the top fishing spots:

  • Tomahawk State Wildlife Area: A serene place with plenty of Brown and Rainbow Trout.
  • Hartsel Springs Ranch: Known for its large Rainbow Trout, also offers comfortable accommodations for anglers.
  • Badger Basin: Provides a great wilderness experience along with plenty of Trout.
  • Spinney Mountain State Park: Ideal for fly fishing; boasts a rich aquatic-life, including the trophy-sized Trout.
  • Eleven Mile Reservoir: Known for its big fish, particularly Cutbows and Browns.

These spots provide not just abundant trout, but also some of the most scenic settings to immerse in fishing. Always check local regulations before you head out.

Best Access Points

The Middle Fork South Platte – Prince offers some of the finest fly-fishing in Colorado with a variety of access points:

  • South Platte River Bridge: An excellent starting point due to the quantity of trout. Land on the right bank is private property, but the left bank is open for fishing.
  • Tomahawk State Wildlife Area: Provides public access for almost two miles, one of the longest public stretches on the river.
  • Badger Basin: Another public space spanning a few miles. It’s a great spot for catching larger fish.
  • Hartsel: This area offers both tailwater and freestone fishing with easy access. The fishing here has improved considerably in recent years.

Remember to keep updated fishing regulations and permits at all times on these waters for mandated catch and release policies or specific fly/lure restrictions.

Local Fish

  • Trout
    1. Brown Trout – Known for its ability to survive in various conditions, and is a popular target for fly fishers.
    2. Rainbow Trout – Noted for their vibrant color and tendency to jump when hooked, making them a thrilling catch.
    3. Brook Trout – Although smaller in size, they are valued for their beauty and the challenge they present to fly fishers.
    4. Cutthroat Trout – Named for the bright red slash on its throat, they are natives of cold-water habitats like the Middle Fork South Platte River.
  • Whitefish – Predominantly a bottom feeder, fly fishers often encounter them when targeting trout.
  • Salmon
    1. Kokanee Salmon – They are landlocked sockeye salmon and can be found in the waters of Colorado during certain seasons.
  • Pike – A predatory fish that can provide a challenge due to its power and aggressive behavior.

About The River

The Middle Fork South Platte – Prince is a beautiful and renowned river located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. Its history is rich and fascinating. The river begins at Montgomery Reservoir near Hoosier Pass, flowing through the lush, narrowing canyons and broadening valleys.

Esteemed as a key source of water for the region, the Middle Fork South Platte plays a significant role in Colorado’s ecology and industry. Here are some key highlights:

  • This river top-notch gold-medal waters, making it a paradise for fishing enthusiasts thanks to its abundant and diverse fish population.
  • Standing as the legacy of the state’s mining heritage, it was heavily panned during the Gold Rush era.
  • It’s a favored spot for various recreational activities like rafting, kayaking, and hiking that spans over scenic trails.

In all its glory, it’s not just a river; it’s a chronicle of Colorado’s vibrant past and shining present!

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