Bear Creek Fly Fishing Report Near Morrison

Bear Creek, located near Morrison, Colorado, is a small but productive stream that offers a quick fishing escape for Front Range anglers. Known for its swift pocket water, deep pools, and healthy populations of rainbow and brown trout, Bear Creek provides a range of fishing opportunities. With easy access, it's perfect for a few hours of fishing, and the fall season offers stunning views and cool water that keep the trout active.

Bear Creek Fishing Report – Near Morrison – December 2024

Bear Creek near Morrison offers a quiet and scenic winter fishing escape just minutes from Denver. Flows are steady at 10-20 CFS, with the creek running low and crystal clear. The trout—mostly browns with the occasional rainbow—are concentrated in deeper pools and slower runs, making precise presentations key. With water temperatures hovering around 34-36°F, fish are less active but still feeding on midges and small subsurface patterns.

Late morning to early afternoon is the prime fishing window when the sun warms the water, prompting trout to feed. Nymphing with small patterns is the most reliable method, though brief dry fly opportunities may arise during midday midge hatches. Despite its proximity to urban areas, Bear Creek offers a serene setting and technical fishing for patient anglers. Low to non-existent flow means you will find few trout holding. 

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 10-20 CFS
• Water Temperature: 34-36°F
• Clarity: Crystal clear
• Best Times: Late morning to early afternoon
• Current Conditions Rating: ⭐ (1/5) – Beautiful scenery and accessible fishing, but low flows require technical precision.

River Flow Chart

Bear Creek Hatch Chart

Top 3 Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Griffith’s Gnat (#20-24) – Perfect for calm, sunny afternoons during sparse midge hatches.
• Nymph: Zebra Midge (#20-24) – A consistent choice for deeper pools and slower runs.
• Streamer: Olive Woolly Bugger (#10-12) – Great for coaxing larger trout from undercut banks.

Tips Fly Fishing on Bear Creek

Seasonal Tip
Low winter flows demand stealth and accuracy. Use long leaders, light tippet, and minimize disturbance when approaching pools.

Dry Fly
Occasional midge hatches on warmer afternoons may bring fish to the surface. Look for risers in calm eddies and tailouts.

Nymphing
A double-nymph rig with a Zebra Midge and a Black Beauty is your go-to setup. Use enough weight to drift flies through deeper water where trout are holding.

Streamer Fishing
Small streamers like Olive Woolly Buggers can tempt larger trout, especially early or late in the day. Keep retrieves slow and deliberate.

Access Points

Lair o' the Bear Park

• Description: A popular and scenic access point with diverse water types, including riffles and pools.
• Why Fish Here: Convenient location with excellent winter holding water.
• Location: Near Morrison, CO, off Highway 74.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

O’Fallon Park

• Description: A quieter stretch with deeper pools and slower runs.
• Why Fish Here: Great for nymphing and occasional dry fly opportunities during hatches.
• Location: Along Highway 74, west of Morrison.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Bear Creek Lake Park

• Description: A lower section with easy access and plenty of trout-holding water.
• Why Fish Here: Ideal for beginners and those looking for accessible fishing close to Denver.
• Location: Near Morrison, CO, within Bear Creek Lake Park.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

Bear Creek offers ample public access, especially through Lair o' the Bear Park and other managed areas. Be mindful of private property boundaries and stick to marked access points. A valid Colorado fishing license is required, and catch-and-release practices are encouraged to preserve this urban gem.