Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

South Boulder Creek - Moffat Tunnel - 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 Late morning to afternoon #24-#26 Griffith Gnat, Zebra Midge
February Midges Late morning to afternoon #24-#26 Griffith Gnat, Zebra Midge
March Blue-winged Olives, Midges Late morning to afternoon #18-#22, #24-#26 Comparadun BWO, Griffith Gnat
April Blue-winged Olives, Midges Mid-morning to mid-afternoon #18-#22, #24-#26 Comparadun BWO, Griffith Gnat
May Caddis, Blue-winged Olives Mid-morning to mid-afternoon #16-#18, #18-#22 Elk Hair Caddis, Comparadun BWO
June Green Drake, Caddis, Yellow Sallies Late afternoon to evening #12-#14, #16-#18, #14-#16 Green Drake Dun, Elk Hair Caddis, Yellow Sally Nymph
July Green Drake, Caddis, Yellow Sallies Afternoon to evening #12-#14, #16-#18, #14-#16 Green Drake Dun, Elk Hair Caddis, Yellow Sally Nymph
August Caddis, Yellow Sallies, Terrestrials Afternoon to evening #16-#18, #14-#16, #10-#20 Elk Hair Caddis, Yellow Sally Nymph, Dave's Hopper
September Blue-winged Olives, Caddis, Terrestrials Afternoon to evening #18-#22, #16-#18, #10-#20 Comparadun BWO, Elk Hair Caddis, Ant Patterns
October Blue-winged Olives, Midges Mid-morning to mid-afternoon #18-#22, #24-#26 Comparadun BWO, Griffith Gnat
November Blue-winged Olives, Midges Mid-morning to early-afternoon #20-#22, #24-#26 Comparadun BWO, Zebra Midge
December Midges Mid-morning to early-afternoon #24-#26 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 South Boulder Creek – Moffat Tunnel is an excellent spot for fly fishing, thanks to its diverse population of fish and beautiful scenery. Here are some top spots to consider:

  • Roger’s Park: Located in the town of Winter Park. This area is popular due to its accessibility and population of rainbow and brown trout.
  • Moffat Tunnel East Portal Trailhead: Offers a secluded fishing experience with abundant brown and brook trout.
  • Walker Ranch Loop: Provides a challenging hike down to the creek, rewarded by excellent fishing for rainbows.

Try different areas of the creek for a variety of fishing experiences. It’s worth noting that the railroad right-of-way adjacent to the creek is private property, so ensure you remain within the public fishing areas to respect local regulations.

Best Access Points

Fly fishing along the South Boulder Creek provides a fantastic fishing experience. Enthusiasts often prefer the stretches near Moffat Tunnel for its abundant fishing spots.

Some of the best access points include:

  • Eldorado Canyon State Park: Accessible via Eldorado Springs Drive and provides excellent access to lower South Boulder Creek.
  • Walker Ranch: Found 7.4 miles up Flagstaff Road and provides varied river access for fishing.
  • Moffat Tunnel East Portal Trail: Skip the crowds and head towards the Moffat tunnel for a serene fishing setup.

Additional considerations:

  1. Always adhere to local fishing regulations.
  2. Some areas may require a day-use fee or fishing permit.

Local Fish

  1. Rainbow Trout: This fish type is one of the most common species and highly sought after for fly fishing in South Boulder Creek.
  2. Brook Trout: A native species, often found in higher altitudes and colder waters.
  3. Brown Trout: Known for their striking yellow-brown color, they are a common species in South Boulder Creek.
  4. Cutthroat Trout: Cutthroats are revered by fly fishers due to their aggressive feeding habits, making it a thrilling catch for any angler.
  5. Mountain Whitefish: These fish are often found in the same habitats as trout and are sometimes targeted for fly fishing.
  6. Arctic Grayling: A more rare species in South Boulder Creek, they are challenging to catch making them a desirable target for seasoned anglers.
  7. Greenback Cutthroat Trout: This is Colorado’s state fish and is a special catch for most fly fishers in the region.
  8. Golden Trout: Golden Trout are rare and highly prized by anglers. They are often found in high mountain lakes and streams.

About The River

Travel through time and witness the engineering marvel that is the South Boulder Creek – Moffat Tunnel. This iconic Colorado landmark isn’t just a tunnel; it’s a story of audacity and dedication. Constructed in the early 20th century, the tunnel was a game-changer for transcontinental rail transportation.

Main Highlights:

  • Built between 1923 and 1927, this ambitious project spans a whopping 6.2 miles (10 km).
  • Named after David Moffat, a Colorado railroad pioneer and visionary who dreamt of a direct route through the Continental Divide.
  • With dedication and countless man-hours, the Moffat Tunnel finally emerged, making Moffat’s dream a reality, albeit posthumously.

Today, the Moffat Tunnel continues to serve both freight and passenger trains, a testament to the timeless spirit of human invention. So, whether you’re a history buff or a train enthusiast, the legacy of the Moffat Tunnel has something to intrigue everyone.

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