Cheesman Canyon Fly Fishing Report June 2025: Top Flies, Flows & Pro Tips for the South Platte's Most Technical Water

Cheesman Canyon Fly Fishing Report – June 2025

There’s no room for half-measures in Cheesman Canyon—this is a proving ground. If you're not bringing your A-game, you're just hiking in waders. But for those willing to match the hatch, lengthen their tippet, and crawl along granite boulders like a stealthy heron, the rewards are massive.

Flows have leveled off, clarity is superb, and it’s dry-dropper heaven by late morning. Hatches are subtle but steady. Fish are spooky, smart, and as dialed in as a physics professor with tenure.

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Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 195 CFS (ideal for the canyon)
• Water Temperature: 45–50°F
• Air Temp: Highs in mid-60s, light breeze
• Clarity: Gin clear—stealth is key
• Best Times: 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM
  ⭐ Best dry fly action mid-morning to early afternoon

Cheesman Hatch Chart (June, May, April)

Top 3 Flies for June

Dry Fly: Parachute BWO (#20–22)
Nymph: Top Secret Midge (#22–24)
Streamer: Slumpbuster Olive (#8–10) – Tight strips near the canyon walls

Tips Fly Fishing in Cheesman Canyon

• Best Time to Fish: Focus on 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM for dry fly action and nymphing in transition water.
• Watch for subtle BWO sippers near slack water seams.
• Run a dry-dropper rig with long 6x tippet into shadowy tailouts.
• Stealth is everything—ditch bright clothing, stay low, and avoid false casts.
• Streamers early or late can pull big fish from behind ledges, but keep it subtle.

Access Points

1. Gill Trailhead

• Why Fish Here: Prime access to upper canyon pools
• What to Expect: Moderate hike, excellent dry-dropper water
• Location: Google Maps – Gill Trail (for reference only)
• Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

2. Canyon Middle Section

• Why Fish Here: Slightly less pressured, deep green pools
• What to Expect: Longer walk, but epic sight fishing
• Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

3. Cheesman Reservoir Tailwater

• Why Fish Here: Cold, consistent flows and educated trout
• What to Expect: Big rewards for patient anglers
• Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

Local Regulations and Landowner Notes

• Barbless hooks are recommended.
• Pack out your trash—no bins on trail.
• Respect other anglers’ space—this canyon runs tight.

FAQ on Cheesman Canyon

What makes Cheesman different than Deckers?
Cheesman Canyon fly fishing is far more technical, with clearer water, spookier trout, and tougher access. It’s ideal for stealthy, skilled anglers. Deckers is easier to reach and less demanding.

Can I bring a beginner here?
Only if they like being humbled. This isn’t beginner-friendly water—but it’s a great place to watch and learn.

Are dry flies working in June?
Yes. BWOs, sparse PMDs, and even terrestrials are seeing action from mid-morning into the afternoon.

What rod setup is best?
4–5 weight rods with 12-foot leaders, 5x or 6x tippet, and a light touch. Bring a second rod rigged with streamers for first light.