Deckers Fishing Report 12/8/25

Updated: December 8, 2025

Deckers is holding in classic early-winter shape with low, clear flows, cold morning water, and trout stacking in deeper, slower lanes. Week over week conditions are stable: flows remained steady, clarity improved slightly, and fish are feeding in tight winter windows driven by subtle midday warming. Expect technical midge nymphing, longer leaders, and slower, more deliberate presentations.

Listen to the Audio Overview

Conditions Summary

• Flow: ~150–160 CFS, stable week over week and typical for early winter
• Water Temperature: Mid 30s to low 40s, warming slightly mid-afternoon
• Air Temperature: Mid 20s to mid 40s depending on sunlight
• Clarity: Clear throughout most sections
• Crowds: Moderate; lighter on cold days, steady near Deckers Bridge
• Best Window: 11 A.M. to 3 P.M. when sunlight triggers midge activity
• Fishing Type Focus: Nymphing, because trout are glued to deeper winter structure and eating small bugs close to the bottom

Weather

Cold canyon mornings followed by a mild midday warm-up. Deckers sees more direct sunlight than Cheesman, but winter winds still sweep through. Expect ice in rod guides early and instant cooling once shadows return.

Top Flies in Your Box This Week

1. Black Beauty 20–24
2. Top Secret Midge 20–22
3. Mercury Midge 20–22
4. Manhattan Midge 22–24
5. RS2 (black, gray) 20–22
6. WD-40 20–22
7. Juju Baetis 20–22
8. Flashback PT 18–20
9. Rainbow Warrior 18–20
10. Mini Leech 12–14 (low-light only)

Pro Rig of the Week: The Deckers Deep Drift

• Indicator: Small yarn or muted pinch
• Lead Fly: Pheasant Tail 18–20
• Dropper: Mercury Midge 20–22
• Weight: One small split shot, 10–12 inches above lead fly
• Target Water: Deep troughs, soft inside seams, and walking-speed winter lanes around boulders

Hatch Chart for December

Access Points

Deckers Bridge Area
Easy access, consistent winter holding water, and deep lanes.
⭐ 4.7

Trumbull Section
Longer runs with softer edges perfect for winter nymphing.
⭐ 4.6

Oxbow Bend
Slower winter water with dependable mid-depth troughs.
⭐ 4.5

Scraggy View Area
More gradient changes; trout slide into deeper pockets in winter.
⭐ 4.4

Below the Confluence
Cold but surprisingly productive during bright afternoons.
⭐ 4.3

Stop Here After the River

Bud’s Bar — Sedalia
Old-school, cash-only, unapologetic Colorado. This is the place guides hit when they want something simple and perfect after a long day on the South Platte. Order the single cheeseburger with onions, grab a side of chips, and take in the atmosphere that hasn’t changed in decades. It’s loud, it’s honest, and it hits the spot after hiking in and out of canyon water all day.

Local Regulations & Notes

• Artificial flies and lures only
• Watch for ice shelves near shaded banks
• Respect redds in shallow gravel runs
• Deckers gets heavy pressure; stealth and quiet wading matter
• Adjust weight often to maintain drift control in low flows

FAQ

Q: What’s the best technique at Deckers in December?
A: Deep, slow nymphing with small midges and long tippet.

Q: Are there any dry-fly opportunities?
A: Only rare midge clusters on warm, still afternoons.

Q: Where should I start if I only have a few hours?
A: Deckers Bridge and Trumbull offer the most consistent winter water.

Q: Do streamers produce in winter?
A: Occasionally, but use micro leeches and slow swings in deeper water.

Q: How pressured is Deckers right now?
A: Moderate; cold days thin crowds, but weekends remain busy.

Q: What weight tippet do I need?
A: 5X for attractors and 6X for midge droppers.

Companion Article for December

Colorado Winter Trout Fishing Strategy & Behavior Guide

Credit: Colorado Trout Hunters

Book Colorado Trout Hunters for Private Waters and Top access along the South Platte

This week is all about midges, tiny baetis, and subtle drifts. Bring your smallest confidence flies.