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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 is a winter angler’s hidden treasure, offering both accessibility and a chance to fine-tune your technical fishing skills. As the creek winds its way through snow-dusted canyons and frosty trees, its clear waters hold trout hunkered down in deeper pools. The trout may be selective in the colder months, but the satisfaction of hooking one in these challenging conditions makes the effort worthwhile.
Low flows and crystal-clear conditions call for a stealthy approach. With fewer anglers around, you can enjoy the peaceful sound of flowing water while testing your patience and precision. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, Clear Creek is a perfect place to embrace the beauty of winter fishing.
Conditions Summary
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- Flow Rate: 15-25 CFS
- Water Temperature: 34-38°F
- Clarity: Crystal clear
- Best Times: Late morning to early afternoon
- Star Rating: ⭐⭐ (Great for a quick trip or sharpening your skills but still pretty tough out there.)
River Flow Chart
No data 😶 -- We will update once the flow station data is corrected!
Clear Creek Hatch Chart (Winter)
| Month | Primary Hatches | Effective Patterns |
|---|---|---|
| December | Midges | Black Beauty (#20-24), Mercury Midge (#20-24) |
| January | Midges | Top Secret Midge (#20-22), Zebra Midge (#20-24) |
| February | Midges, Baetis | Blue Wing Olive Emerger (#18-22), WD-40 (#20-22) |
Top 3 Flies for the Week
- Dry Fly: Parachute Adams (#20-22) – Sparse opportunities during midday hatches.
- Nymph: Top Secret Midge (#20-22) – A reliable winter producer in slow pools.
- Streamer: Black Woolly Bugger (#8-10) – Fish it deep and slow in shaded areas.
Tips Fly Fishing on Clear Creek
Seasonal Tip
Focus on deeper pools and slow-moving runs where trout are conserving energy. Dress warmly, as icy mornings can make fishing tough.
Dry Fly
Dry fly action is rare but possible on sunny afternoons during midge hatches.
Nymphing
A two-fly nymph rig with a small midge pattern is your best chance for success. Use light tippet for a more natural presentation.
Streamer Fishing
Slowly retrieve small streamers to entice larger, opportunistic trout hiding in deeper water.
Access Points
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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.
