Poudre Canyon (Lower Sections)on Cache la Poudre River
River running clear and at typical fall levels
- 01River running clear and at typical fall levels.
- 02Active subsurface feeding on midges and Baetis nymphs.
- 03October Caddis hatches offering dry fly opportunities.
- 04Brown Trout spawning makes egg patterns highly effective.
- 05Focus on pocket water, runs, and deeper pools, targeting current seams and undercut banks.
- 06Pay attention to subtle takes when nymphing and consider dry-dropper rigs.
- 07Swing streamers through deeper areas for aggressive trout.
What to tie on at Poudre Canyon (Lower Sections)
Picked from recent reports for this stretch.
Blood Dot Egg
Fall marks the spawning season for Brown Trout, making egg patterns highly effective for opportunistic feeders.
Buy at AmazonSan Juan Worm
With flows trending towards runoff, aquatic worms are easily washed into the system, making this a highly effective pattern for opportunistic trout looking for an easy meal.
Buy at AmazonBlue-Winged Olive Comparadun
Blue-Winged Olives are actively hatching in early spring, especially on overcast days, and this low-profile dry fly is excellent for selective trout feeding on emergers and adults.
Woolly Bugger (Black/Olive)
An essential streamer for enticing aggressive strikes from trout, imitating leeches and baitfish active in colder, rising water. Great for covering water and targeting larger fish.
Flashback Hare's Ear
An excellent general searching nymph for early spring, mimicking various mayfly nymphs that are active year-round and particularly as BWOs begin to emerge. Effective in off-color or deeper water.
Buy at AmazonPheasant Tail Nymph
Mimics various small mayfly nymphs (including BWOs) that are active in the river. A year-round staple, particularly effective in spring during BWO activity.
Buy at AmazonZebra Midge (Black)
Midges are a primary active insect even in cold water, making this a staple year-round pattern highly effective for enticing finicky trout, especially during spring's fluctuating temperatures.
Schroeder's Hi-Vis Hopper
August is prime hopper season, and this highly visible pattern is excellent for prospecting grassy banks and drawing aggressive strikes from opportunistic trout.
Elk Hair Caddis
Caddis hatches are consistent throughout the summer on freestone rivers like the Cache la Poudre, making this an essential dry fly.
Buy at AmazonColorado season by season
What changes on the water through the year, with the flies for each season.
Fly shops nearby
Local flies, current advice and guided trips.