Cache la Poudre Fly Fishing Report Poudre Canyon 12/10/25

A cold, clear winter canyon where trout stack in deep troughs and feed lightly during short midday windows.

Updated: December 10, 2025

With classic December low flows and cold overnight temperatures, the Poudre Canyon is in full winter mode. Expect clear, slow water with trout holding deep and tight to structure. Nymphing is the most productive, though the window is narrow and sun exposure drives activity. Crowds are very light, and much of the canyon is quiet. Ice shelves are forming in shaded stretches, but the main runs remain open and fishable.

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Conditions Summary

• Flow: Low and clear for winter; trout concentrated in deeper buckets.
• Water Temperature: Cold, generally mid 30s; fish remain sluggish until sun hits the water.
• Air Temperature: 20 to 38 depending on canyon shade and wind.
• Clarity: Clear; long leaders and light tippet recommended.
• Crowds: Very light; winter anglers spread out across longer canyon runs.
• Best Window: 11 am to 3 pm after slight warming and subtle midge stir.
• Fishing Type Focus: Deep nymphing with small midges; focus on slower winter water near depth transitions.

Weather

A classic high-country winter pattern with freezing mornings, canyon shade, and limited melt. Sunny days offer slightly warmer pockets but expect ice along edges and in side channels.

Top Flies in Your Box This Week

• WD-40 20
• Zebra Midge 20 to 22
• Top Secret Midge 22
• RS2 20
• Micro Leech 14

Pro Rig of the Week

The Canyon Midday Drop-Off Rig

• Top Fly: RS2 20
• Dropper: Top Secret Midge 22
• Indicator: Small winter indicator set extremely light
• Weight: One micro split shot
• Target Water: Deep canyon bends, dark green winter troughs, slow transitions below shelves

Hatch Chart for December

Access Points

• Gateway Natural Area ⭐⭐⭐⭐
  Deep holding water; steady winter structure with excellent troughs.
• Lower Mishawaka Area Pullouts ⭐⭐⭐
  Shaded in winter but holds depth and consistent slow water.
• Sportsman’s Corridor Pullouts ⭐⭐⭐⭐
  Multiple deep bends; very light pressure in December.
• Poudre Canyon Road Mile 107 to 110 ⭐⭐⭐
  Mixed pocket water transitioning to deeper shelves.
• Upper Canyon Bends Near Picnic Rock ⭐⭐⭐⭐
  Good winter depth with reliable greenwater seams.

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 and Notes

• Ice shelves vary by day; avoid stepping on thin edge ice.
• Respect canyon closures and roadside safety restrictions.
• Standard trout regulations apply throughout most canyon segments.
• Flows can shift slightly after warm spells; always check before heading out.

FAQ

Is winter fishing good in the Poudre Canyon?
Yes, with deep nymphing and precise presentations in slower water.

Are dries possible?
Rarely; mostly tiny midge sippers on very calm days.

What tippet should I use?
5X or 6X fluorocarbon due to clear water.

Is wading safe in winter?
Generally yes, but avoid ice edges and shaded slicks.

When do fish feed?
Almost always between 11 and 3 during slight warming.

Is access open?
Yes, but certain pullouts may be icy. Drive and walk with caution.

Companion Article for This Month

Winter Fly Fishing in Colorado: The Only December Guide You Need