Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

South Boulder Creek - Eldorado Springs - 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 18-24 Zebra Midge, Top Secret Midge, Foam Back Emerger
February Midges Afternoon 18-24 Zebra Midge, Top Secret Midge, Foam Back Emerger
March Blue Winged Olives, Midges Afternoon 16-24 Rs2, Frenchie, Zebra Midge
April Blue Winged Olives, Midges, Caddis Afternoon 14-24 Rs2, Frenchie, Elkhair Caddis
May Blue Winged Olives, Midges, Caddis, Stoneflies Afternoon 12-24 Elkhair Caddis, Rs2, Frenchie, Pat's Rubberlegs
June Blue Winged Olives, Caddis, Stoneflies, Yellow Sally Morning and Evening 12-18 Elkhair Caddis, Yellow Sally, Pat's Rubberlegs
July Caddis, Stoneflies, Yellow Sally, Hopper Afternoon 10-16 Hopper, Yellow Sally, Pat's Rubberlegs
August Hopper, Ant, Beetle Morning and Afternoon 10-16 Hopper, Foam Ant, Foam Beetle
September Hopper, Ant, Beetle, Mahogany Dun Afternoon 12-18 Hopper, Foam Beetle, Mahogany Dun
October Blue Winged Olives, Midges Afternoon 16-24 Rs2, Frenchie, Zebra Midge
November Midges Afternoon 18-24 Zebra Midge, Top Secret Midge, Foam Back Emerger
December Midges Afternoon 18-24 Zebra Midge, Top Secret Midge, Foam Back Emerger

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

South Boulder Creek in Eldorado Springs provides several exceptional spots for fly fishing. These include:

  • Walker Ranch: Easily accessible and teeming with brown and rainbow trout, this area provides plenty of space for casting. It’s best from Spring through Fall.
  • Eldorado Canyon State Park: This spot offers fantastic fly fishing amid stunning scenery. Due to heavy tourist traffic, it’s better in the early morning or late evening.
  • Southern Flatirons: Offering heavy brown trout presence, this section demands a bit of a hike but rewards with seclusion and excellent fishing.
  • South Boulder Creek at East Portal: Located at the base of the Moffat Tunnel, this spot is a mix of wild and stocked rainbows and the occasional cutthroat.

Remember to check local regulations regarding fishing seasons and catch limits. Happy fishing!

Best Access Points

The South Boulder Creek in Eldorado Springs offers premium spots for fly fishing. Select access points guarantee you a great catch and a memorable fishing experience.

  • The Aden property: This is only 2.5 miles from Highway 93. There is plenty of parking and easy access to the river.
  • The Doudy Draw Trailhead: It has a large parking area and marks the starting point of a trail that follows the creek.
  • Eldorado State Park: This downstream section of the river requires a day use fee, but offers significant fish holdover.
  • The Walker Ranch: Although the trail down to the river is steep, it’s worth it. Large boulders and deep pools make this a prime spot for trophy-sized trout.
  • The Denver Water Property: Found upstream from Gamble Gulch Road, this is a catch-and-release only area, reducing fishing pressure and preserving the fish population.

Local Fish

  • Greenback Cutthroat Trout: The state fish of Colorado, known for its distinctive color pattern.
  • Brown Trout: This fish is known for its strong fight, making it a favorite for many fly fishers.
  • Rainbow Trout: This colorful fish is one of the most common species targeted by fly fishers on the South Boulder Creek.
  • Brook Trout: Small, but common species in the creek – known for their vibrant colors.
  • Mountain Whitefish: These fish tend to be found in deeper, colder water and are a popular target in the colder months.
  • Golden Trout: A special and rare find in Colorado. They are a beautiful and formidable fish to catch.
  • Northern Pike: While not a trout, these aggressive fish are a fun challenge for fly fishers.
  • Cutbow Trout: A hybrid of the Rainbow Trout and Cutthroat Trout, these fish put up a great fight for fishers.

About The River

Let’s take a jaunt back in time and explore the intriguing history of the South Boulder Creek – Eldorado Springs. This picturesque creek flows right through the heart of Eldorado Springs, a renowned resort town settled in 1865.

The area originated from a single discovery – a hot spring that became a major draw for health-seeking travellers. Local lore even claims these springs held healing properties.

Featuring the list of important highlights:

  • In the late 1800s, the town swiftly transformed into a luxurious resort, attracting luminaries such as Roosevelt and the Rockefellers.
  • In the 1900s it gained notoriety as the ‘Coney Island of the West’ thanks to its amusement park and dance pavilion.
  • Today, the area is famed for the Eldorado Canyon State Park, a rock climber’s paradise.

The South Boulder Creek, surrounded by its aged history, continues to be a nature lover’s delight, linking past splendor with present allure.

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