North Fork of the South Platte River Fly Fishing Report January 2025

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Welcome to the North Fork of the South Platte River—where the fish are feisty, the water's clear, and the only thing more diverse than the insect hatches is the crowd of anglers trying to outsmart them. This stretch of river is a hidden gem just outside of Denver, less crowded than its more famous cousins like Deckers or Cheesman Canyon, yet equally rich with opportunities to catch trophy-sized trout. If you’re tired of playing bumper rods with other anglers and ready to engage in some tactical fly fishing, the North Fork is calling your name.

North Fork of the South Platte Fly Fishing Report: January 2025

The North Fork of the South Platte is a winter gem that offers anglers a chance to test their skills in a serene and scenic setting. The river winds through snow-covered banks, its clear waters revealing trout holding in deeper pools and slower runs. Though the fish are less active in the cold, a well-placed nymph can still get their attention, making each catch feel like a well-earned triumph.

With minimal angler pressure and plenty of opportunities to explore, the North Fork is an ideal spot to escape the crowds and enjoy the quiet beauty of Colorado’s winter landscape. Just remember to dress warmly and wade carefully—the trout aren’t the only ones feeling the chill.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 30-40 CFS
• Water Temperature: 36-39°F
• Clarity: Crystal clear
• Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
• Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (Challenging yet rewarding for skilled anglers)

River Flow Chart

North Fork Hatch Chart (Winter)

Top 3 Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Parachute Adams (#20-22) – Limited use, but effective during rare midday surface activity.
• Nymph: Mercury Midge (#20-22) – Perfect for deeper pools and runs.
• Streamer: Olive Woolly Bugger (#8-10) – Slowly stripped along seams for larger trout.

Tips Fly Fishing on the North Fork

Seasonal Tip

Target the warmest parts of the day when trout are more active. Focus on slower currents and deeper runs for the best results.

Dry Fly

Dry fly action is rare but possible during sunny midday midge hatches.

Nymphing

A two-fly rig with a small midge pattern and a tiny Baetis imitation is your best bet for consistent bites.

Streamer Fishing

Streamers fished slow and deep can coax a strike from a bigger trout looking for an easy meal.

Access Points

Pine Valley Ranch Park

• Description: A scenic and family-friendly access point with ample parking and well-maintained trails.
• Why Fish Here: Excellent for wading with productive pools and riffles nearby.
• Location: Off Pine Valley Road near Pine, CO.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Bailey Area

• Description: A popular stretch near the town of Bailey with good pocket water and runs.
• Why Fish Here: Consistent action with opportunities for nymphing and dry fly fishing.
• Location: Along Highway 285 near Bailey, CO.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Below Deckers

• Description: A quieter section downstream from the main Deckers stretch, offering deeper pools and less angling pressure.
• Why Fish Here: Great for targeting larger fish with nymphs and streamers.
• Location: Below the confluence with the main South Platte.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

The North Fork offers ample public access, but some stretches run through private property. Be sure to stick to public access areas and respect landowner rights. A valid Colorado fishing license is required, and catch-and-release practices with barbless hooks are strongly recommended to protect the trout population.