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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 March is the definition of early-season mountain fishing—it’s still cold, flows are low, and the trout are in winter survival mode. But don’t let that stop you. With midday sun warming the water, fish are starting to wake up from their winter slumber, feeding on midges and the occasional Baetis hatch.
Expect technical fishing, as these trout aren’t chasing much. Small nymphs, perfect drifts, and light tippet are your best bets. Streamer action? Slim, but if you work the deepest runs and slow pools, you might move a fish. Dry flies? Only if you get lucky with a surprise hatch. But hey, it’s Clear Creek—it’s always a good excuse for a quick, scenic trip up the canyon.
Conditions Summary
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- Flow Rate: 25-40 CFS (Low and clear)
- Water Temperature: 35-40°F
- Clarity: Crystal clear—stealth required
- Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
- Star Rating: ⭐⭐ (2/5 – Cold and low flows make it tough, but possible)
River Flow Chart
Source: Colorado DWR River Station Reports
Clear Creek Hatch Chart
| Month | Primary Hatches | Effective Patterns |
|---|---|---|
| February | Midges, Winter Stones | Zebra Midge (#20-24), RS2 (#20-22), Pat’s Rubber Legs (#12-14) |
| March | Midges, Baetis (BWO) | Black Beauty (#20-24), Blue Wing Olive (#18-22), Pheasant Tail (#16-20) |
| April | Baetis, Caddis, Midges | Elk Hair Caddis (#16-18), RS2 (#20-22), Pat’s Rubber Legs (#12-14) |
Top Flies for the Week
- Dry Fly: Blue Wing Olive (#18-22) – Only if you catch a hatch on a cloudy afternoon.
- Nymph: Pheasant Tail (#16-20) – Reliable Baetis imitation for deep drifts.
- Streamer: Thin Mint (#10-12) – Slow strips in deeper pools may move a fish.
Tips for Fly Fishing Clear Creek in March
Seasonal Tip
Focus on deep, slow water—trout are not aggressive yet, but they are feeding on small bugs.
Dry Fly
Limited activity, but watch for midges and Baetis on warmer afternoons.
Nymphing
Best bet right now—stick with small midges and Baetis nymphs in deep pools.
Streamer Fishing
Not great, but possible—try small leeches or Thin Mints with a slow retrieve.
Access Points
Golden to Idaho Springs
- Description: Easy roadside access with a mix of pocket water and deep runs.
- Why Fish Here: Good structure, but can be pressured.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Lawson/Dumont Area
- Description: Less pressured and offers deeper pools.
- Why Fish Here: More fish holding water, but requires more hiking.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Georgetown Area
- Description: Colder water, fewer anglers, and bigger fish potential.
- Why Fish Here: Harder to fish, but sometimes worth it.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights
- Artificial flies and lures only in most areas.
- Watch for private property—stick to public access points.
- Flows are low—be mindful of spooking fish.
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