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Clear Creek is starting to open up, but it’s still very much in early spring mode. Flows are manageable, clarity is good most mornings, and fish are holding tight to slower pockets and seams. This isn’t a numbers game right now, it’s a precision game.
Midday is your window. As temps rise, fish loosen up just enough to feed more consistently. You won’t see much surface activity yet, but subsurface fishing can be solid if you stay disciplined with depth and drift.
Listen to the Podcast
Conditions Summary
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- Flow Rate: 80–150 CFS (stable to slightly rising)
- Water Temp: 36–41°F
- Air Temp: 45–58°F
- Clarity: Clear to slight stain (afternoons)
- Best Times: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Weather
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 |
Top Flies for the Month – Clear Creek (April)
🔥 Fish These First
- Top Secret Midge #22–24
- Juju Baetis #20
- RS2 #20–22
If you’re only rigging once, start here.
Fly Box for the Month
Match the Hatch
| Fly | Size | When | Where |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parachute BWO | #20–22 | Midday hatch | Soft seams and tailouts |
| BWO Emerger | #20–22 | Hatch transition | Just below surface film |
| Foam Wing RS2 | #20 | Late morning | Slower pockets and eddies |
Big Eats
| Fly | Size | When | Where |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kreelex | #10–12 | Low light | Deeper runs and plunge pools |
| Mini Leech | #12 | Afternoon | Pocket water and slower edges |
Wildcards
| Fly | Size | When | Where |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zebra Midge (Black/Silver) | #22–24 | Pressure | Tight seams and slower water |
| Mercury Baetis | #20 | Selective fish | Transitional pocket water |
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
Tips Fly Fishing on Clear Creek
Seasonal Strategy
Fish are still in winter patterns. Focus on slower water and deeper pockets early, then expand as temps rise.
Dry Fly
Limited. Be ready, but don’t build your day around it yet.
Nymphing
Primary method. Short-line or tight indicator setups work best in pocket water.
Streamer Fishing
Best in deeper plunge pools and during lower light.
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.
→ Want more access points, maps, and real-time updates?
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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.
