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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.
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March on Bear Creek near Morrison means cold mornings, low flows, and trout that require some convincing. But don’t let that deter you—this small but mighty creek still offers opportunities for the patient angler. The fish are hunkered down in the deeper pools, waiting for the midday warmth to kick-start their feeding.
Midges are still the main event, but Baetis (BWOs) are starting to stir on overcast days. Nymphing is the go-to technique, but if you're feeling optimistic, you might spot a few risers sipping midges in the slow seams. Streamer fishing? Let’s just say the fish here don’t usually fall for that trick, but if you’re stubborn, try small leeches dead-drifted near undercut banks.
Conditions Summary
- Flow Rate: 10-15 CFS (Low and clear)
- Water Temperature: 36-40°F
- Clarity: Gin clear—trout spook easily
- Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
- Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5 – Technical, but possible with the right approach)
River Flow Chart
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Source: Colorado DWR River Station Reports
Bear Creek Hatch Chart
| Month | Primary Hatches | Effective Patterns |
|---|---|---|
| February | Midges, Winter Stones | Zebra Midge (#20-24), RS2 (#20-22), Pat’s Rubber Legs (#12-14) |
| March | Midges, Baetis (BWO) | Black Beauty (#20-24), Blue Wing Olive (#18-22), Pheasant Tail (#16-20) |
| April | Baetis, Caddis, Midges | Elk Hair Caddis (#16-18), RS2 (#20-22), Pat’s Rubber Legs (#12-14) |
Top Flies for the Week
- Dry Fly: Blue Wing Olive (#18-22) – Best on overcast afternoons with slow, controlled drifts.
- Nymph: Pheasant Tail (#16-20) – A staple for imitating early Baetis nymphs.
- Streamer: Mini Leech (#10-12) – Drifted along undercut banks, might wake up a lethargic brown.
Tips for Fly Fishing Bear Creek in March
Seasonal Tip
Fish slow, fish small—trout here aren’t moving far for food yet, so be precise.
Dry Fly
Expect limited surface action, but warmer days with cloud cover might produce a small BWO hatch.
Nymphing
The most productive method—stick with tiny midges and Baetis patterns, fished deep and slow.
Streamer Fishing
Not the best option, but dead-drifting a small leech in deeper pools might work.
Access Points
Lair o’ the Bear Park
- Description: Easily accessible stretch with deep pools and riffles.
- Why Fish Here: Good structure and some of the larger fish in the system.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
O’Fallon Park
- Description: More pocket water and faster currents.
- Why Fish Here: Less pressured, but requires a stealthier approach.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Bear Creek Lake Park
- Description: The lower end of the creek, warmer water temps.
- Why Fish Here: Trout may be more active here compared to upstream sections.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights
- Artificial flies and lures only in most sections—check signage.
- Some sections run through private land—respect property boundaries.
- Flows are very low—avoid excessive wading to keep fish from spooking.
Bear Creek may be small, but it demands respect—if you approach it like a high-mountain tailwater, you’ll find success. March isn’t the easiest month, but the fish are still there if you put in the work.
