South Platte Basin
About the South Platte Basin
The South Platte River Basin is the crown jewel of Colorado's tailwater fisheries. Located within easy reach of Denver and Colorado Springs, it is the most popular, and arguably the most technical, river system in the state. Crystal clear water, consistent flows from dams, and rich insect life create an environment where trout grow large—and educated.
Key Sections
- The Dream Stream: The stretch between Spinney Mountain and Eleven Mile Reservoirs. Famous for its migratory runs of spawning Cutthroat/Rainbows (Spring) and Kokanee Salmon/Brown Trout (Fall).
- Cheesman Canyon: A rugged, hike-in only Gold Medal canyon. The fish here are legendary for their selectivity. It is a place that humbles experts and teaches beginners the true meaning of "dead drift."
- Deckers: The most accessible and popular section. It features miles of public access, campsites, and a healthy population of Rainbows and Browns.
- Waterton Canyon: Just outside Denver, offering a close-to-home escape with good seasonal fishing.
The Game
Fishing the South Platte is a game of microscopic precision.
- Sight Fishing: Much of the fishing involves spotting fish and casting to specific individuals.
- Small Flies: Size #22-26 midges and #20-24 Blue Wing Olives are the norm.
- Light Tippet: 6X and 7X fluorocarbon are often required to fool these pressured fish.
- Year-Round: Because it is a tailwater system, the South Platte stays ice-free near the dams, providing world-class fishing 365 days a year.
Fly Fishing Rivers in the South Platte Basin
Bear Creek - Evergreen to Morrison
Colorado
Big Thompson River - Estes Tailwater
Colorado
Big Thompson River - RMNP
Colorado
Boulder Creek
Colorado
Cache la Poudre River - Poudre Canyon
Colorado
Clear Creek
Colorado
South Boulder Creek - Below Gross
Colorado
South Platte River - Above Spinney
Colorado
South Platte River - Cheesman Canyon
Colorado
South Platte River - Deckers
Colorado
South Platte River - Dream Stream
Colorado
South Platte River - Eleven Mile Canyon
Colorado
South Platte River - Middle Fork
Colorado
South Platte River - North Fork
Colorado
South Platte River - South Fork Below Antero
Colorado
South Platte River - Waterton Canyon
Colorado
St. Vrain Creek - Lyons
Colorado
Tarryall Creek
Colorado
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best fly fishing rivers in the South Platte Basin?
The Fly Fishing South Boulder Creek – Below Gross is widely considered the crown jewel of the South Platte Basin, but the area offers many excellent options. Be sure to explore the various tributaries and sections listed in our guide for diverse experiences.
When is the best time to fly fish in the South Platte Basin?
While summer (June-September) offers the most consistent dry fly action, the South Platte Basin has productive fishing year-round. Fall brings aggressive brown trout and excellent streamer fishing, while spring sees important hatches like Blue Winged Olives. Winter tailwater fisheries can also be excellent.
What fish species can I catch in the South Platte Basin?
Anglers can primarily target Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout, with Cutthroat Trout and Brook Trout available in higher elevation streams. Some waters also hold Mountain Whitefish and other species.
