Updated: November 17, 2025
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Updated: 11/25/2025
Deckers is cold, clear, and fishing better than it looks if you slow everything down. Trout are holding deep early but slide into softer edges once the sun warms the canyon. Expect classic winter midge eats, subtle takes, and long clean drifts. Small flies are mandatory, and patience pays off. If you fish methodically, Deckers will reward you with steady action through the warmest part of the day.
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Conditions Summary
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Flow: 150 CFS
Water Temp: Upper 30s to low 40s
Air Temp: 37 to 48
Clarity: Clear
Crowds: Low
Best Window: 11 am to 3 pm
5 Day Weather Forecast
Sun: 40 to 48, clear
Mon: 32 to 53, clouds
Tue: 32 to 53, clouds
Wed: 37 to 44, clouds
Thu: 34 to 48, light snow
Top Flies in Your Box
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.
Hatch Chart for November
Primary: Midges
Black Beauty, Top Secret Midge, Mercury Midge
Secondary: Baetis
RS2, WD40, Barrs BWO
Tertiary: Scuds
Grey, Olive, size 16 to 18
Pro Rig of the Week
Deckers Shallow Winter Double Midge Rig
10 ft 5x
Top fly: size 20 Mercury Midge
Dropper: size 22 Black Beauty
Micro split shot placed lightly
Indicator set shallow for slow seams and soft shelves
Download the Full South Platte Hatch Chart
Fishing Type Scores
Dry Fly: ⭐⭐
Nymphing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Streamer: ⭐⭐⭐
Access Points
Bridge Pool
Classic winter water with predictable seams and soft edges.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cable Hole Area
Deeper green buckets, solid mid-day nymphing.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Downstream Meadows
Gentle flows and wide soft runs, great for beginners.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Local Regulations and Notes
Artificial flies only
Catch and release encouraged
Ice forming early, especially near shaded bends
Flows steady and clear
Long leaders and light tippet recommended
FAQ
Q: Is Deckers crowded in winter?
A: Not this week. Light pressure and plenty of space.
Q: Can I fish dries?
A: Small midges during warm mid-day windows only.
Q: Is this a good streamer week?
A: Fair. Best early or under cloud cover.
Q: What depth should I run my nymphs?
A: Slightly off the bottom in deeper seams and troughs.
Q: Best spot for new anglers?
A: The meadows downstream offer easier water and softer structure.
Q: Should I bring 6x?
A: Yes. The smallest midges often fish best on 6x right now.
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.

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