Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

San Miguel River - Placerville - 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 Morning 20 - 26 Griffith's Gnat, Black Beauty
Winter Stoneflies Afternoon 16 - 20 Black Stonefly Nymph
February Midday Baetis Mid-day 18 - 20 RS2, Sparkle Dun
March Early Black Stoneflies Morning 14 - 18 Pats Rubberlegs, Tungstone
Blue-winged Olives Afternoon 18 - 20 Parachute BWO, RS2
April Blue-winged Olives Afternoon 16 - 18 BWO Comparadun, Sparkle Dun
Caddis Evening 14 - 16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
May Golden Stoneflies Morning 8 - 12 Rogue Foam Stone, Pat's Rubberlegs
Pale Morning Dun Afternoon 14 - 16 Parachute PMD, Pheasant Tail Nymph
June Green Drakes Mid-day 8 - 10 Green Drake Paradrake, Extended Body Drake
Caddis Evening 14 - 16 X-Caddis, Elk Hair Caddis
July Green Drakes Mid-day 8 - 10 Green Drake Paradrake, Extended Body Drake
Pale Morning Dun Afternoon 14 - 16 PMD Barr Emerger, Parachute PMD
August Terrestrials Morning 12 - 16 Hopper Juan, Ant Patterns
Tricos Mid-day 20 - 24 Trico Spinner, Trico Dun
September Terrestrials Morning 12 - 16 Hopper Patterns, Beetle patterns
Blue-winged Olives Afternoon 18 - 22 BWO Barr Emerger, Comparadun BWO
October Baetis Mid-day 18 - 20 RS2, Baetis Sparkle Dun
November Midges Morning 20 - 26 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
December Midges Morning 20 - 26 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 San Miguel River in Placerville, Colorado, USA, is an idyllic spot for fly fishing. Here are some renowned spots along its expanse:

  • Norro Rapids: A popular location amongst experienced fishers due to its strong current and abundance of trout.
  • Telluride: This town on the banks of the San Miguel offers multiple fishing spots teeming with rainbow and brown trout.
  • Sawpit: This area is best known for its peaceful ambiance. It has a softer current, making it ideal for beginners.
  • Specie Creek: A tributary of the San Miguel River, it is home to large populations of cutthroat and brook trout.
  • Beaver Creek: This small tributary offers fishing in tranquil and secluded surroundings.

Before planning a trip, always check local fishing regulations and respect private property borders. Catch and release is encouraged to maintain healthy fish populations.

Best Access Points

The San Miguel River presents a wealth of opportunities for scenic and exciting fly fishing experiences. Here are the top access points in Placerville:

  • Specie Creek: This feeder stream provides a good launch point with plenty of space for casting and riffles that are home to large brown trout.
  • Down Valley Park: Located just outside Placerville, this area is often less crowded and boasts a variety of areas to cast and catch, including deep holes and fast currents.
  • Illium Valley: Offering a mix of public and private land, this access point requires respectful navigation for fruitful catch.
  • Sawpit: Just downstream of Placerville, it offers a diversity of fish species in the river.
  • Beaver Creek: This feeder stream is home to both Browns and Rainbows, provides an ideal spot for fly fishing.

Local Fish

  • Trout: Very common in the San Miguel River. There are several species including Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout and Cutthroat Trout.
  • Mountain Whitefish: This is a species that thrives in clean, cold, fast waters like the San Miguel River.
  • Pike: A species that usually thrives in colder water environments. They are quite aggressive and fun to catch.
  • Brook Trout: This is an introduced fish species that now thrives in the San Miguel River.
  • Golden Trout: This is a rare and beautiful fish species that can be found in the rivers around Placerville.
  • Arctic Grayling: This species is found in very select parts of the San Miguel River.
  • Sauger: Sauger can be found in the San Miguel River but they are not as common as other species.
  • Yellow Perch: Another rare species to encounter but can bring great joy in a successful catch.

About The River

Have you ever wondered about the fascinating history of the San Miguel River flowing through Placerville, Colorado? Well, nestled in the rocky mountains enclosure, this river was a coveted gem during the 19th-century gold rush in the United States.

Let’s drive back in history! In 1859, prospector miners from around the country swarmed into Colorado, in hopes of striking gold or silver. The San Miguel River was a key spot as it was rich in placer deposits.

  • After the mining boom, the beautiful river transitioned into a hub for recreational activities such as fishing, whitewater sports, and camping.
  • Presently, it is considered a hotspot for adrenaline-packed approximately 90-mile expedition of whitewater activities.

The rejuvenating passage of the San Miguel River through scenic Placerville carries historical traces of prosperity, adventure, and tranquility – holding imprints of the past and promises of refreshing endeavors.

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