South Boulder Creek (Lite Report)

Weekly Report

Note: This report is a part of the FlyCast Lite reporting program and is updated seasonally or in the event of substantial changes that alter fly fishing tactics. FlyCast Lite reports are intended to give anglers a high level overview on seasonal conditions and general fishing tactics.

South Boulder Creek, below Gross Reservoir, fishes well this time of year when flows are at or above 25 cfs and while the lower stretches are prone to ice, the water nearest the dam is generally a safe bet. When flows are below 25 cfs, the fishing becomes far more technical as trout are prone to be skittish and selective. Hatch activity has been fairly consistent with midges making a regular appearance in the late morning and afternoon. The mornings have been and will continue to be slow given winter weather and sluggish trout. As such, it is in your best interest to fish the warmest hours of the day. In general, a dry dropper or hopper dropper is our go to mode of fishing, regardless of the time of year. While you might not see much action on your stimulator dry fly, the entire set up will be more stealthy and spook fewer trout. Otherwise, a heavy nymph rig with a yarn indicator is a good fall back option. Regardless, you'll want to focus on getting your nymphs into the deepest water column while targeting the deep and slow pools, runs and pockets as this is where the highest concentration of trout will be. Searchers and attractor patterns like a Copper John, Flashback PT, Hare's Ear, Rainbow Warrior or San Juan Worm will make for great lead flies. Smaller midge and baetis imitations like a Tube Midge, Zebra Midge, Medallion Midge, Manhattan Midge, RS2, Darth Baetis or Stalcup's Baetis will make for great trailer flies. On warmer days, this tailwater can get crowded. Either way, you'll want to cover a lot of water and do your best to sight fish.

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