Cheesman Canyon October Fly Fishing Report: Hit the Canyon Before it Freezes

Cheesman Canyon Fly Fishing Report – Mid-October

A canyon so clear you can see your mistakes before the fish do.
Flows are down, visibility’s up, and Cheesman’s trout are back to handing out free lessons. It’s prime fall fishing - if you like your challenges with a side of humility.

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Conditions Summary

Flows are steady in the low 100s CFS and clarity is exceptional, meaning sight fishing is possible but every drift counts. The BWO hatch is reliable mid-day with strong midge activity in the morning. Cold mornings and light afternoon winds make mid-day the sweet spot.

• Flow: ~120 CFS ⬇ slightly
• Water Temp: 48–52 °F
• Air Temp: 35–65 °F
• Clarity: Crystal clear
• Pressure: High on weekends / moderate midweek
• Best Times: 10 AM – 3 PM
• Dry Fly Score: ⭐⭐☆
• Nymph Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
• Streamer Score: ⭐⭐☆

Conditions Note:
The canyon is fishing tough but fair. Low flows keep fish spooky; long leaders, soft casts, and perfect drifts are the ticket. Expect smaller bugs and selective takes.

October Hatch Chart

Top 3 Dry Flies for October

1. BWO Parachute #20-22 – Fish mid-day in slow tailouts and edges.
2. CDC Trico Spinner #22-24 – Early calm mornings before the sun hits the water.
3. Parachute Adams #20-22 – Great prospecting fly for mid-day risers.

Top 3 Nymphs for October

1. RS2 (Gray/Olive #20-22) – Trail behind a midge or BWO emerger.
2. Barr’s BWO Emerger #20-22 – Fish mid-column during the hatch.
3. Zebra Midge (Black/Silver #22-24) – Dead drift through deeper runs and slower pockets.

Streamer of the Month

Mini Leech (Black or Olive #12) – Fish late afternoon as light drops; short strips and long pauses near structure.

Tips for Fishing Cheesman Canyon

• Approach low and slow - fish see you long before you see them.
• Use 12–14 ft leaders and 6X tippet for dries or emergers.
• Presentation beats pattern - fix your drift before you swap flies.
• Expect mid-day to be the best window; early and late bites are sporadic.
• Hike past the crowds for less-pressured pools.

Access Points

• Gill Trailhead; Main access, busy weekends.
• Upper Canyon; Longer hike, technical but rewarding water.
• Lower Canyon; More forgiving terrain, best afternoon light.

Local Regulations & Notes

• Artificial flies and lures only.
• Catch-and-release strongly encouraged.
• Avoid redds - spawning browns present in pockets downstream.

FAQ on Cheesman Canyon

Q: When’s the best time to fish Cheesman in October?
A: 10 AM to 3 PM when water temps creep above 48 °F and BWOs start moving.

Q: Do streamers work here?
A: Yes, but small and subtle. Think mini leeches and short strips.

Q: Is it worth the hike midweek?
A: Absolutely - you’ll find less pressure and more cooperative fish.

Q: What’s the biggest mistake anglers make here?
A: Too much weight and too many casts. Stealth beats spam every time.

Q: Are the browns spawning?
A: Yes, in select gravel pockets. Avoid those redds and fish below them.

Q: Can you fish dries successfully here?
A: Yes, but timing is everything - BWO hatches mid-day under clouds give the best shot.

Q: What’s a good two-fly rig setup?
A: Barr’s BWO Emerger followed by a Zebra Midge on 6X tippet.

Q: What gear weight works best?
A: 9’ 5-weight rod with a floating line - keep it simple and accurate.