The name of the river itself draws you to it, but when you learn about the Gold Medal fly fishing opportunities it provides, you know the Blue River in Colorado is to place to be. This river is one of the most beautiful in the state. It begins in the Hoosier Pass and flow some 65 miles through Breckenridge and Silverthorne to join up with the Colorado River. On its run, it fills two reservoirs and offers a myriad of unique fishing environments.

My first experience with the Blue was with a guide from Minturn Anglers out of Denver. He introduced me to the “stair steps” just north of the Breckenridge community center where a number of easily accessed drop pools are home to trout during low water conditions. A wide range of hatches every day make this area a very productive one for monster trout. This location is still a favorite walk and wade site for me.

I’ve also explored the Gold Medal tailwaters of the Blue just below the Dillon Dam. Trout larger than 24 inches are often seen here, largely because of the mysis shrimp meals enjoyed by fish in this location. Tiny midge imitation flies also work well here. Flowing further north, the Blue transforms into a more free stone type of river, with many points of access for public fly fishing as the river parallels Highway 9. I consider this a very desirable stretch, as it is easy to access and is close to home.

The Blue River continues to the Green Mountain Reservoir, where anglers often gather to target Kokanee salmon as they start their annual run. Much of the access to the Blue River below this reservoir is limited because it is privately owned. However, there are public fishing areas below the dam.

The Blue River is the classic Colorado mountain stream, offering spectacular scenery, fragrant sage and pine, and trophy fly fishing opportunities. What are you waiting for? You know this is the water you want to try next! Contact your favorite Minturn Anglers Fly Shop and book a fly fishing trip.