.png?width=300&height=100&name=Rise%20Beyond%20Logo%2010.29.24%20300x100px%20(2).png "Rise Beyond Fly Fishing Co. logo featuring a cowboy riding a large trout, holding a fishing rod in one hand and a camera in the other, with stylized text in a rugged, outdoor-themed font")
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Welcome to Clear Creek, Colorado, where the trout are wily and the water is swift! This picturesque creek runs parallel to I-70 from Georgetown to Golden, offering easy access to some fantastic fly fishing spots.
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Clear Creek in Golden Canyon is awakening from its winter slumber, offering anglers a mix of challenging and rewarding fishing. With the warming temperatures, insect activity is picking up, and the trout are becoming more responsive. However, the creek's swift currents and tight casting windows demand precision and patience. Expect to work hard for your catches, but the beauty of the canyon and the thrill of landing a wild trout make it well worth the effort. This time of year, stealth is your greatest ally, and a delicate presentation is paramount.
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Current Conditions
- Star Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
- Flow: 150 CFS (slightly above average)
- Water Temperature: ~42–45°F
- Water Clarity: Clear, but with some turbidity from snowmelt
- Best Times to Fish: 11 AM – 4 PM Wind Rating: Light to moderate, especially in the canyon
- Fishing Pressure: Moderate, with increasing traffic as spring progresses.
- Pro Tip: Be aware of fluctuating flows due to snowmelt; check the Colorado Division of Water Resources data.
Best Times to Fish
Midday to late afternoon is ideal. As the sun warms the water, insect activity increases, and trout become more active. Look for feeding windows during the warmest parts of the day.
Dream Stream Hatch Chart
| Month | Primary Hatches | Effective Patterns |
|---|---|---|
| Feb | Midges, Winter Stones | Zebra Midge (#20-24), RS2 (#20-22), Pat’s Rubber Legs (#12-14) |
| Mar | Midges, Baetis (BWO), Stoneflies | Black Beauty (#20-24), Blue Wing Olive (#18-22), Pat’s Rubber Legs (#10-12) |
| Apr | Baetis, Caddis, Midges | Elk Hair Caddis (#16-18), RS2 (#20-22), San Juan Worm (#12-14) |
Recommended Flies
Dry Fly: Parachute Adams (Size 18–20), Effective for sporadic BWO hatches.
Nymph: RS2 Emerger (Size 20–22) and Pheasant Tail Nymph (Size 16-18), Essential for targeting subsurface feeders.
Streamer: Woolly Bugger (Size 8–12) or small leeches, Work well in deeper pools and runs.
Tips for Fly Fishing Clear Creek in April
Seasonal Tip: Snowmelt can affect water clarity and flow; check conditions before heading out. Dry Fly: Sporadic BWO hatches in the afternoon; be ready with delicate presentations. Nymphing: High success rate; focus on deep runs and slow pockets. Streamer Fishing: Effective in deeper pools; use slow, deliberate retrieves.
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Where to Fish on Clear Creek
"Golden Canyon Pools" - Deeper pools, good for nymphing and streamers.
"Highway 6 Riffles" - Accessible riffles, challenging casting.
"Tunnel Section" - Tight canyon, requires precise casts.
"Below the Dam" - Consistent flows, but can be crowded.
Access Points
- Golden Canyon Park: Easy access, popular area.
- Google Maps
- Highway 6 Pullouts: Various access points along the highway.
- Google Maps
- Tunnel Access: Requires a short hike, less crowded.
- Google Maps
River Whisper: Colorado Fly Fishing Edge
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Local Regulations & Landowner Info
Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW) Fishing Regulations{Link}
Jefferson County Open Space Regulations{Link}
Respect private property and adhere to posted signage.{Link}
FAQs: Clear Creek Fly Fishing
Is Clear Creek suitable for beginners? Challenging due to swift currents and tight casting; some sections are beginner-friendly.
What’s the best rod setup here? A 9' 4 or 5-weight rod with a versatile leader system is recommended.
Any special rules to watch for? Check CPW regulations for specific sections; catch-and-release is encouraged.
Final Thoughts
Clear Creek in Golden Canyon offers a unique fly fishing experience with its stunning scenery and wild trout. Be prepared for challenging conditions, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Stay patient, adapt to the changing conditions, and enjoy the beauty of this Front Range gem. Tight lines!
