An Angler’s Guide to St. Vrain
Fly fishing in St. Vrain Canyon can be a rewarding experience, and the choice of flies can vary depending on the time of year, water conditions, and the specific section of the canyon you're fishing. Here are some general recommendations for fly patterns to use when fly fishing in St. Vrain Canyon:
Spring and Early Summer (March to June):
Blue Winged Olive (BWO) Patterns: This may include BWO dries, emergers, and nymphs. BWO hatches are common in the spring and can provide excellent dry fly fishing opportunities.
Caddis Patterns: Caddisflies are active during the spring months. Elk Hair Caddis and various caddis nymphs are effective choices.
Stonefly Patterns: Stonefly nymphs, such as the Pat's Rubber Legs, can be productive, especially in early spring when stoneflies are active.
Midge Patterns: Midges are a year-round food source for trout. Use midge larvae and pupa patterns in smaller sizes.
Summer (July to August):
Pale Morning Dun (PMD) Patterns: PMD dries and nymphs can be effective during PMD hatches, which are common in the summer.
Terrestrial Patterns: Grasshoppers, ants, and beetles are abundant in the canyon during the summer months. Try using hopper patterns like the Parachute Hopper.
Caddis Patterns: Continue to use caddis patterns, especially in the evenings when caddis hatches are prevalent.
Late Summer and Fall (September to October):
Trico Patterns: Trico hatches can be important in late summer. Use small Trico patterns, both dries and nymphs.
Blue Winged Olive (BWO) Patterns: BWO hatches can return in the fall. Be prepared with BWO dries and nymphs.
Streamers: As temperatures cool and fish become more aggressive, streamer patterns like Woolly Buggers and Sculpins can be effective for enticing larger trout.
Year-Round (Throughout the Seasons):
Midge Patterns: Midges are present year-round, so midge larvae and pupa patterns in various sizes are essential for consistent success.
Copper John: This versatile nymph pattern, available in various colors and sizes, can be effective in St. Vrain Canyon throughout the year.
Woolly Bugger: Woolly Buggers in various colors, such as black, olive, and brown, imitate a variety of aquatic and terrestrial food sources and can be productive year-round.
Zebra Midge: This simple pattern is highly effective for imitating midge larvae and pupae.
San Juan Worm: A San Juan Worm pattern in red or pink can be productive when fish are feeding on aquatic worms.
Keep in mind that local fly shops and fellow anglers familiar with the specific conditions in St. Vrain Canyon can provide valuable insights and recommendations for successful fly fishing in the area. Additionally, matching the hatch and adapting your fly selection to the current conditions will increase your chances of success when fly fishing in St. Vrain Canyon.
