Clear Creek Fly Fishing Report: Idaho Springs to Golden

Welcome to Clear Creek, Colorado, where the trout are wily, the water is swift, and the tubers are… well, have wrapping up their season! This picturesque creek runs parallel to I-70 from Georgetown to Golden, offering easy access to some fantastic fly fishing spots. Whether you're looking to fish the clear, cold waters below Georgetown or explore the pocket water and plunge pools further down, Clear Creek has something for every angler willing to take on its unique challenges.

Clear Creek Fishing Report – December 2024

Clear Creek offers a rewarding winter fly fishing experience for anglers looking to escape the crowds and enjoy serene mountain waters close to Denver. With flows hovering around 20-40 CFS, the creek runs low and clear, making stealthy presentations essential. Trout are holding in deeper pools and slow-moving runs, feeding primarily on midges and small subsurface patterns. Though technical, this stretch rewards patience with vibrant brown trout and rainbows.

Late morning to early afternoon is the prime window as sunlight warms the water slightly, sparking trout activity. Nymphing is the most effective approach, but anglers may find occasional dry fly opportunities during sparse midge hatches. Clear Creek’s accessibility and picturesque winter setting make it a great option for a quick outing or a full day of technical fishing.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 20-40 CFS
• Water Temperature: 34-38°F
• Clarity: Crystal clear
• Best Times: Late morning to early afternoon
• Current Conditions Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5) – Beautiful setting and rewarding fishing, but low flows and technical challenges make it tricky.

River Flow Chart

Clear Creek Hatch Chart

Top 3 Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Griffith’s Gnat (#20-24) – Perfect for targeting trout rising during calm, sunny afternoons.
• Nymph: Zebra Midge (#20-24) – Highly effective for deeper runs and pools.
• Streamer: Black Woolly Bugger (#10-12) – A solid choice for enticing larger trout in slower water.

Tips Fly Fishing on Clear Creek

Seasonal Tip
Low flows demand a stealthy approach and precise casts. Use long leaders and fine tippet to fool wary trout.

Dry Fly
Watch for sparse midge hatches during the warmest part of the day. Target calm eddies and tailouts with small, delicate dries.

Nymphing
A two-fly rig featuring a Zebra Midge and a Black Beauty is your best bet. Add split shot to get your flies into the feeding lanes of slower, deeper water.

Streamer Fishing
Streamers like Woolly Buggers can tempt aggressive trout. Fish them slowly along structure or near undercut banks.

Access Points

Golden City Stretch

• Description: An easily accessible section with riffles and runs, great for nymphing.
• Why Fish Here: Convenient location with diverse water types and steady trout activity.
• Location: Through the city of Golden, along Clear Creek Trail.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Lawson Hole

• Description: A scenic area with deeper pools and slower runs.
• Why Fish Here: Perfect for winter nymphing and occasional streamer action.
• Location: Near Lawson, off I-70.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Black Hawk Stretch

• Description: A quieter section with excellent holding water for trout.
• Why Fish Here: Offers productive fishing in less-crowded areas.
• Location: Along Highway 119, near Black Hawk.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

Clear Creek offers a mix of public and private access, so anglers should stick to designated areas and respect property boundaries. A valid Colorado fishing license is required, and catch-and-release practices are encouraged to maintain the trout population. Barbless hooks are recommended for safe releases.