REGION: Roosevelt National Forest TITLE: Poudre River - Lower
NOTES: West of Fort Collins, the Poudre starts on the northwestern side of Rocky Mountain National Park and flows north into Long Draw Reservoir before running a canyon eastward towards Fort Collins. This is a narrow Wild And Scenic river that is never more than 40 feet wide. It is a freestone river that many consider one of the most scenic in Colorado where you can expect to see bighorn sheep and deer. From its high of 800 cfs, the typical summer flow rate is about 300. You can expect to find fish ranging from 9 to 12 inches in length.
The best hatch on the river is the western green drake which starts in late June and runs through late July.
To reach the river from Fort Collins, head west on SR14. After about 30 miles, you will be deep into the canyon. Near milepost 95.5, there is a turnout on the south side of the road called Eggers. This turnout provides access to the river and has fly fishing information.
Note: there are two designated Wild Trout Water sections and it is appropriate to practice catch and release with artificial flies and lures only. In addition, there is a 4 fish bag limit with 8 possession limit.
Note: The printable fly fishing river map is provided courtesy of Fly Fishing Tec (888) 306-9580. They have a wide range of printed laminated river maps, too!
FOR MORE
INFORMATION: Roosevelt National Forest (970)498-1375; Poudre Tourism (888) 876-8878; CO Visitors (800) COLORADO.
