Fly Fishing North Platte River - Northgate

Fly fishing North Platte River Northgate Canyon section offers one of Colorado’s most remote and scenic fly fishing adventures, tucked into the rugged backcountry just south of the Wyoming border. Emerging from the high plains of North Park, the river quickly descends into a steep-walled canyon of rust-red rock formations, towering Ponderosa pines, and dramatic bluffs that shelter cold, clear water year-round. This wild freestone stretch is a haven for strong populations of wild brown and rainbow trout that thrive in the river’s deep pools, boulder-strewn runs, and oxygen-rich riffles.

Accessible only by a few dispersed pullouts along Highway 125 or via raft, Northgate Canyon remains one of the least-pressured fisheries in the state, offering true solitude and a backcountry feel that appeals to seasoned anglers. While wade fishing is possible in a few key access spots—such as the Northgate trailhead near Sixmile Gap—floating is the preferred and most effective method for covering this 8–10 mile section, particularly from the Routt National Forest boundary to the Bennett Peak takeout. The float features Class II and III rapids, making it best suited for experienced rowers or guided trips during spring and early summer runoff.

Fishing kicks off in late spring when flows drop below 800 CFS, revealing productive riffle seams, tailouts, and undercut cliff walls. Hatches are diverse and consistent—golden stoneflies, yellow sallies, pale morning duns, and caddis dominate June through early July, with large trout aggressively attacking dry-dropper rigs and attractor patterns near shoreline eddies and boulders. Summer brings a mix of tricos, PMDs, and terrestrials like hoppers and ants, providing excellent surface fishing along grassy banks and slower side channels. Nymphing with stonefly imitations and small beadhead mayflies remains productive year-round, especially during shoulder seasons or when water clarity increases after rain events.

Fall fishing (September–October) in Northgate Canyon is particularly stunning, with golden aspens glowing on the canyon rim and trout feeding eagerly ahead of winter. As flows stabilize and water temperatures cool, streamer fishing becomes increasingly effective, with aggressive browns striking big patterns near submerged logs and ledge drop-offs.

Check our current fly fishing North Platte River Northgate flows and weather forecasts before embarking on your trip. For those seeking a truly wild Colorado fly fishing experience—complete with rugged canyon walls, hard-fighting trout, and almost no crowds—the North Platte River through Northgate Canyon delivers unmatched scenery and action in one of the state’s best-kept fly fishing secrets.