The Blue River below Dillon Dam, surrounded by shimmering snow-covered slopes, is perhaps the best-known home for double-digit-weight denizens of frigid waters.

Flowing underneath the Interstate-70 overpass and through the outlet shopping mall in Silverthorne, this section of catch-and-release-only Wild Trout Water provides an amphitheater where shoppers can watch fishermen tangle with huge mysis-nourished brown and rainbow trout.

Standing on “Spectator Bridge” over the river, onlookers often help locate trout for the fishermen. There are few hatches here, so the Blue is essentially nymph water. Standard midge and mayfly nymphs -- supplemented by mysis shrimp patterns, if flows are heavy -- are standard fare.

The Taylor River “Hog Pond” is as equally well known as the Blue, for it harbors the largest trout in Colorado, including the state-record catch-and-release rainbow -- 40.25 inches long. Rainbows in the 15- to 20-pound range and huge brown trout are not uncommon here, despite usually frigid conditions.

The Taylor provides extreme winter-fishing conditions at times, but the fishing remains superb. My favorite hole is guarded by a sign indicating avalanche danger. The narrow, debris-strewn path of innumerable past avalanches lends credence to this warning. As on the Blue River, midge, tiny mayfly nymphs, and mysis shrimp are key patterns.

The Arkansas River below Pueblo Reservoir, unmarked by any outstanding natural wonders, is a winter fisherman’s dream. At lower altitude, the climate here is fisherman-friendly, and the trout are both willing and plentiful. Although not “Hog Pond” in size, the browns and rainbows here will average up to 16 inches, with a few trophy browns as residents too.

Below the reservoir, several miles of public access provide uncrowded conditions. Low, clear water combined with dreary days frequently produce massive Blue-Winged Olive hatches. Consistent water flows through winter months ensure excellent dry-fly fishing for both midge and olive hatches.

The premier section is just below the dam for a couple of miles. Size 18 to 24 midge and olive patterns will ensure action. But for those who want to attract the large browns in the river, Colorado fly-fishing expert and author Marty Bartholomew recommends streamer patterns.

Find more about Rocky Mountain fishing and hunting at RMgameandfish.com