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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.
Clear Creek is rolling fast and furious thanks to spring runoff. But don’t write it off just yet. Tucked behind boulders, along soft edges, and in those juicy side channels are trout that still need to eat. You’ll have to work for ‘em—but the payoff? Worth it.
Conditions Summary
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- Flow Rate: 590 CFS near Golden
- Water Temperature: Mid-40s°F
- Air Temperature: Highs in the mid-70s°F
- Clarity: Off-color to muddy
- Best Time to Fish: 11am–3pm for nymphing or swinging big flies
Clear Creek Hatch Chart
| Month | Hatches |
|---|---|
| March | Midges, Blue Wing Olives |
| April | Midges, BWOs, early Caddis |
| May | BWOs, Caddis, Stoneflies |
| June | Caddis, Golden Stones |
Top 3 Flies for the Week
- Dry Fly: Elk Hair Caddis (#14–16) — Afternoon fluttery caddis bring surface action in slower seams.
- Nymph: Pat’s Rubber Legs (#10–12) — Perfect for plummeting into deep runs along banks.
- Streamer: Black Woolly Bugger (#6–8) — Strip it through any bucket that looks fishy.
Tips for Fly Fishing on Clear Creek
- Seasonal Tip: High flows = hug the banks. Fast water means trout stay shallow and tucked into soft spots.
- Dry Fly: Not prime time, but don’t overlook evening caddis if clarity improves.
- Nymphing: Use split shot or tungsten to punch through the current. Short, tight drifts win.
- Streamer Fishing: Strip buggers or sculpin patterns tight to the bank—big fish eat big food in dirty water.
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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.
- Highway 6 Pullouts: Various access points along the highway.
- Tunnel Access: Requires a short hike, less crowded.
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!
