Blue River, CO

The Blue River is a tributary of the Colorado River, approximately 75 mi (121km) long, in the U.S. state of Colorado. It rises in southern Summit County, on the western side of the continental divide in the Ten Mile Range, near Quandary Peak. It flows north past Blue River and Breckenridge, then through the Dillon Reservoir near Dillon. North of Dillon it flows NNW along the eastern slope of the Gore Range and joins the Colorado at Kremmling. The large trout of the Blue River are mainly concentrated in the first couple of miles below Dillon Dam. This is a regulated catch-and-release area. These trout feast on the thousands upon thousands of mysis shrimp that spill into the river from the reservoir.

Downstream from the catch-and-release area the size of the trout are much smaller although there are still hefty trout to be found to 18 inches and sometimes larger. The hatches below the catch-and-release area increase in intensity. Green Drakes, pale morning duns, red quills, terrestrials, stoneflies and caddis hatch with enthusiasm during the summer months of July and August. During the spring and fall, baetis (blue-wing olives) and midges bring trout to the surface. Easy access along Route 9 all the way to Green Mountain Reservoir. Deep runs, classic riffles, and beautiful pools all characterize the river from Dillon Reservoir to Green Mountain Reservoir. Boulders, bends and depressions in the river bottom account for the variety of seams and excellent holding habitat for the trout. Quality angling can be found all the way to where the Blue meets the Colorado River below Green Mountain Reservoir. The Blue River is a fine fishery. Large trout, quality hatches and beautiful water are all here. If you're planning a trip or going to be in the Denver vicinity, be sure to plan some time for the Blue River.

The well known section is the tailwater that flows out of Lake Dillon down through Silverthorne, classified as Gold Medal Waters.