Bear Creek Fly Fishing Report – August 30, 2025

Bear Creek is a small Front Range gem most of the year, but right now it’s in rough shape. Flows are running high and stained after recent storms, giving the water a “chocolate milk” look. Add in water temps in the mid-60s°F and you’ve got stressed trout that don’t need extra pressure. The hatches are there—Tricos, PMDs, and terrestrials—but until clarity and temps improve, this creek is better left alone.

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Rise Beyond Fly Fishing – Bear Creek Update
Hear the breakdown on current conditions, why fishing is shut down this week, and what to expect once the creek clears.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: High and stained (post-storm bump)
• Water Temp: Mid-60s°F (stressful for trout)
• Air Temp: 70s–80s°F afternoons
• Clarity: Muddy, “chocolate milk”
• Best Times: Not recommended until flows stabilize
• Crowds: Very light — most anglers avoiding it
• Star Rating: ⭐ (unfishable right now)

Bear Creek Hatch Chart

Note: Bugs are still present, but fish won’t respond well in muddy water and high temps. Once things settle, Tricos and terrestrials will be the main ticket.

Flies to Try – Once Conditions Improve

Nymphs

• RS2 (20–24, gray/olive)
• Juju Baetis (20–22)
• Zebra Midge (20–24, black)
• Frenchie (18)

Dries

• CDC Biot Trico Spinner (22–24)
• Parachute Adams (20–22)
• Elk Hair Caddis (16–18)
• Amy’s Ant (14)
• Black Beetle (16)

Streamers

• Mini Leech (black/olive)
• Thin Mint Bugger (10)

Tips for Fishing Bear Creek

• Wait it Out: With stained flows and high temps, the best move is to give the creek a break until it cools and clears.
• Post-Storm Plan: Once visibility improves, expect Trico spinner falls early and terrestrials mid-day.
• Rigging: Small bugs, long leaders (12–14 ft), and light tippet (6X) are essential when conditions recover.
• Timing: Early mornings will be the safest and most productive window once temps stabilize.

Access Points

Local Regulations and Notes

• Stage 2 Fire Restrictions in place — no campfires, charcoal, or open flames.
• Handle trout minimally once water temps push above 65°F.

FAQs – Bear Creek

Q: Is Bear Creek fishable right now?
A: No. Water is muddy and temps are stressful for trout.

Q: When will it improve?
A: Typically a couple of days after storms if temps cool; look for clarity to return first.

Q: What bugs are hatching?
A: Tricos in the morning, PMDs mid-day, terrestrials in the afternoon.

Q: Should I try streamers in dirty water?
A: Not recommended here — visibility is too low and fish are stressed.

Q: Best alternative nearby?
A: Try Clear Creek or the Big Thompson, both are holding cleaner, colder water.

Q: Is this a beginner-friendly creek?
A: Yes when conditions are good, but right now it’s not the place to learn.

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