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Updated May June 2, 2026
June is prime pocket-water season on Clear Creek. Fish are becoming increasingly opportunistic as caddis, PMDs, Yellow Sallies, and midges become more active throughout the watershed.
Morning conditions often provide the best combination of clarity and manageable flows. As temperatures rise, trout move into feeding lanes and become much more willing to chase drifting food. This is one of the few times each year where aggressive anglers often outperform anglers who sit on one run all day
Listen to the Podcast
Conditions Summary
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| Category | Status | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Flow | Moderate and variable | Watch daily runoff fluctuations |
| Water Temp | 48-58°F | Prime feeding temperatures |
| Air Temp | 65-80°F | Strong insect activity developing |
| Clarity | Clear to slight stain | Excellent fishing conditions |
| Wind | 5-15 mph | Typical canyon breezes |
| Wading | Moderate | Pocket water can be pushy |
| Crowds | Medium | Popular due to proximity to Denver |
| Access | Excellent | Numerous public access opportunities |
| Vibe | Summer pocket-water fishing | Active fish and lots of opportunity |
| Float | None | Walk and wade only |
| Dry Outlook | High | Caddis and Yellow Sally opportunities |
| Streamer | Medium | Good in deeper pockets |
| Nymphing | High | Most consistent producer |
Weather
May Flies for Clear Creek Fly Fishing
Primary Method: Pocket-Water Nymphing With Dry-Dropper Windows
Dominant Hatch: BWOs, Midges
Secondary Hatch: Early Caddis, Small Stones
Fish These First
- Graphic Caddis #14-16
- Frenchie #16-18
- Yellow Sally Stonefly #14-16
| Priority | Fly + Size | Role & When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Graphic Caddis #14-16 | Top producer during June caddis activity |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Frenchie #16-18 | Excellent pocket-water attractor |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Yellow Sally Stonefly #14-16 | Matches emerging stoneflies |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Elk Hair Caddis #14-16 | Primary dry-fly option |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Duracell Jig #16 | Gets down quickly in fast pockets |
| ⭐⭐⭐ | Rainbow Warrior #18 | Visibility and attraction |
| ⭐⭐⭐ | PMD Split Case #16-18 | Matches emerging mayflies |
| ⭐⭐⭐ | Jig Pearl Rib Perdigon #16 | Fast current producer |
| ⭐⭐ | Mini Dungeon #6-8 | Streamer option in deeper runs |
| ⭐⭐ | Parachute PMD #16-18 | Dry-fly hatch matcher |
Pro Rig for This Section
Clear Creek Pocket Water Rig
- Indicator: Small New Zealand yarn indicator
- Lead Fly: Duracell Jig #16
- Dropper: Graphic Caddis #16
- Weight: One split shot 10-12 inches above lead fly
- Spacing: 12 inches between flies
- Target Water: Pocket seams, plunge pools, current breaks, and soft edge
Clear Creek Hatch Chart
| Month | Hatch | Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| February | Midges | #20–24 | Primary food source |
| March | Midges, Early BWOs | #18–24 | Midday activity |
| April | BWOs, Midges | #18–22 | Short hatch windows |
How to Fish It
- Start with Top Secret Midge + Juju Baetis under a tight indicator setup
- Adjust depth constantly, pocket water changes fast
- Rotate in RS2 when fish get selective
- Fish short, controlled drifts through pockets and seams
- Use Big Eats sparingly to target aggressive fish in deeper pools
Access Points
Tunnel 1 (Idaho Springs) | 📍 Locals Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5.0
Classic pocket water with consistent holding fish and easy access.
Upper Clear Creek (Silver Plume Area) | 📍 Locals Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.5
Less pressure with defined runs and productive seams.
Golden Stretch | 📍 Locals Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.0
More technical water with pressured fish but solid structure.
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Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights
Regulated by Colorado Parks and Wildlife
- Artificial flies and lures only in most stretches
- Check specific sections for regulations
- Be mindful of private land along lower sections
FAQ on this Spot
Is Clear Creek fishing good right now?
Yes, especially midday when water temps rise and fish become more active.
What flies should I use on Clear Creek?
Midge and baetis patterns like Top Secret Midge and Juju Baetis are the most consistent.
What is the best time of day to fish Clear Creek?
Late morning through mid-afternoon offers the most consistent fishing.
Where should I fish on Clear Creek?
Focus on pocket water, seams, and slower edges where fish can conserve energy.
Is Clear Creek good for beginners?
It can be, especially in lower gradient sections, but pocket water requires good drift control.
Do I need a guide for Clear Creek?
Not necessary, but helpful if you’re unfamiliar with fishing technical pocket water.
