Cheesman Canyon Fishing Report: Fall Fly Fishing in Colorado’s Legendary Waters 11.25.2024

Cheesman Canyon Fishing Report – November 2024

Fishing Cheesman Canyon this November is like stepping into a fly angler’s dream—if you dream of clear water, wild trout, and technical challenges that reward patience. Flows are holding steady at 75-100 CFS, creating perfect conditions for nymphing and even some midday dry fly action during sparse BWO hatches. The trout are hanging in deeper pools and slower seams, sipping on midges and Blue Wing Olives. While the fish are selective, the breathtaking scenery and rewarding catches make this trip worthwhile.

Bring your “A” game—Cheesman’s crystal-clear water leaves no room for sloppy presentations or heavy footsteps. Late morning to mid-afternoon is prime time, so plan to make the most of those warm, sunny hours. A double-nymph rig or a sneaky streamer might help you land a bruiser in those deep pockets.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 75-100 CFS
• Water Temperature: 40-44°F
• Clarity: Crystal clear
• Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
• Current Conditions Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Cheesman offers stellar fishing with technical demands and plenty of rewards for skilled anglers.

River Flow Chart

Source: Colorado Department of Natural Resources

Cheesman Canyon Hatch Chart

Top 3 Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Blue Wing Olive (#18-22) – Midday hatches are your shot for surface action, especially in slower pools.
• Nymph: Zebra Midge (#20-24) – Consistently productive in riffles and deep seams.
• Streamer: Black Woolly Bugger (#8-10) – Target bigger browns lurking in deep pockets and undercut banks.

Tips Fly Fishing in Cheesman Canyon

Seasonal Tip
Low flows and clear water make stealth a necessity. Approach pools quietly, keep casts delicate, and use long leaders to avoid spooking fish.

Dry Fly
Blue Wing Olive hatches are sparse but present in the late morning. Focus on calm, slow-moving pools where risers are more likely to appear.

Nymphing
A double-nymph rig with a Zebra Midge and Pheasant Tail is your best bet. Adjust depth frequently to find trout feeding lanes.

Streamer Fishing
Work a Black Woolly Bugger through deep runs and structure. Slow retrieves near undercut banks can tempt larger fish to strike.

Access Points

Cheesman Canyon Trailhead

• Description: Your starting point for accessing the canyon’s stunning fishing opportunities.
• Why Fish Here: Offers prime water for nymphing and dry fly fishing, with breathtaking scenery along the trail.
• Location: Near Deckers, CO.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Upper Canyon Pools

• Description: This stretch is known for its deep pools and productive riffles.
• Why Fish Here: A top spot for targeting larger trout using streamers or nymph rigs.
• Location: Accessed via the Cheesman Trailhead after a moderate hike.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Wigwam Club Boundary

• Description: A peaceful section of Cheesman Canyon at the lower boundary near private property.
• Why Fish Here: Offers a mix of pocket water and calm runs with less angling pressure.
• Location: Near the Wigwam Club property line.
• Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

• Cheesman Canyon is catch-and-release only, and barbless hooks are required to protect its trout population.
• Respect property lines near the Wigwam Club, and stick to public access areas.
• A valid Colorado fishing license is mandatory, and anglers are encouraged to pack out all trash to preserve this pristine fishery.