.png?width=300&height=100&name=Copy%20of%20Rise%20Beyond%20Logo%2012.31.24%20(300%20x%20100%20px).png "Rise Beyond Fly Fishing Co. logo featuring a cowboy riding a large trout, holding a fishing rod in one hand and a camera in the other, with stylized text in a rugged, outdoor-themed font")
.png)
The Poudre is running 6.35 cfs, which is extremely low even for early winter. Water is clear, air temps have been warmer than normal, and trout are pushed into the deepest structure available. Expect tough but rewarding winter fishing: slow nymphing with tiny midges, long leaders, and careful approach. Flows are unchanged from last week and holding steady. Angler traffic is moderate, mostly around easily accessed canyon turnouts.
Listen to the Audio Overview
Conditions Summary
%20(5).png?width=800&height=175&name=Guide%20Rating%20(800%20x%20175%20px)%20(5).png)
Flow: 6.35 cfs, extremely low and stable; trout are concentrated in the few deep pockets and winter pools available.
Water Temperature: No current reading, but expect low to mid-30s early, warming slightly in sunlit canyon sections.
Air Temperature: 47.7°F, noticeably warmer than typical for early winter; improves the midday bite.
Clarity: Clear; stealth, long leaders, and subtle rigs needed.
Crowds: Medium; easy access from highway pullouts brings consistent angler pressure.
Best Window: 11 am to 3 pm, when sunlight softens the canyon chill and trout become more active.
Fishing Type Focus: Nymphing, because trout are tight to depth, unwilling to move far, and responding best to small midges on precise drifts.
Weather
Expect a mix of sun and clouds with mild temps for early winter. Morning ice on edges, but midday warmth creates short feeding windows. Wind can push through canyon bends unpredictably.
Top Flies in Your Box This Week
- Zebra Midge Black 20–22
- Mercury Midge 20–22
- RS2 Gray 20–22
- WD40 Brown 20–22
- Chocolate Thunder 20–22
- Top Secret Midge 20–22
- Olive Perdigon 18–20
- Rainbow Warrior 20
- Small Stonefly Nymph 16
- Mini Leech Black 12–14
Pro Rig of the Week – “Low-Flow Winter Pocket Rig”
Top Fly: Olive Perdigon #18
Dropper: WD40 #22, 14 inches below
Indicator: Tiny yarn or micro AirLock for subtle presentations
Weight: One micro split shot, only enough to slide through deep pockets without snagging
Target Water: Deep canyon bowls, slow inside bends, soft winter troughs where depth and structure converge
Hatch Chart for December
| Hatch Type | Bug & Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Primary | Midges 20–26 | Most consistent winter activity; fish them deep |
| Secondary | Baetis 20–22 | Rare in December; mostly nymphal drift |
| Tertiary | Winter Stoneflies 16–18 | Present subsurface; occasional emergence during warm spells |
Access Points
Gateway Natural Area
Deep pools, canyon shade, and reliable winter holding water.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Picnic Rock Area
Classic Poudre winter water with bouldery slots and good depth.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lower Canyon Pullouts (Hwy 14)
Easy access, mixed pocket water, and deeper holes at low flows.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Greyrock Trail Area
A mix of riffle-run sequences with deeper holding pockets in winter.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Below Filter Plant Run
One of the most dependable low-flow winter sections with softer currents.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Stop Here After the River
After a cold session, warm up at The Mishawaka in the canyon. Grab a burger, a seat by the fire, and a local IPA while you watch the light fade over the river. It’s the best way to thaw out and swap stories with whoever else was crazy enough to fish in November.
Local Regulations & Notes
- Winter ice shelves are forming in shaded canyon sections
- Private property boundaries increase downstream of the canyon
- Watch for icy pullouts along Hwy 14
- Barbless hooks strongly recommended for cold-water catch and release
FAQ
Q: Can I fish dries on the Poudre this time of year?
A: Rarely. Only during brief midge clusters on warm, calm days.
Q: Where are fish holding at 6 cfs?
A: The deepest slots, bends, and bowls. The river is too low for wide distribution.
Q: Do I need 6X tippet?
A: Yes. The water is extremely clear and slow.
Q: Are streamers worth trying?
A: Only small leeches fished very slowly; otherwise stick to midges.
Q: Is the canyon better than town?
A: Yes. More depth, more structure, and more consistent winter holding water.
Q: Best time to fish right now?
A: Midday, once air temps climb enough for trout to feed.
