Fishing Report: South Platte River at Cheesman Canyon September

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September Fishing Report: Cheesman Canyon

Current River Conditions

Currently, Cheesman Canyon is flowing at a steady 290-400 cubic feet per second (cfs), rejuvenated by recent afternoon showers that have added a touch of excitement. The water remains crystal clear and refreshingly cold, holding a perfect temperature in the 50s—ideal conditions for keeping the trout active and ready to bite. However, don't be misled; these trout are incredibly discerning. If you're not cautious, they will spot you from a distance. Given the recent uptick in visitors, it's wise to arrive early to avoid the crowds and secure a prime fishing spot.

What's Bitting? 

The hatches in Cheesman Canyon have been a bit erratic lately, but there's still plenty of action for those willing to work for it. You'll see a mix of midges, Blue Wing Olives (BWOs), Pale Morning Duns (PMDs), caddisflies, Tricos, and the occasional stonefly. Here's what's been working best:

• Nymphs: With the water being so clear and the trout so selective, smaller nymph patterns have been the most consistent producers. Effective patterns include Foamback Emerger (#20-22), Rojo Midge (#20-22), Pat’s Rubber Legs (#10-16), Stalcup’s Baetis (#22), Barr’s PMD Emerger (#16-18), and RS2 (#20-22). Present these flies on a long, fine leader for a drag-free drift that tempts even the pickiest trout​

• Dry Flies: Dry flies can be deadly when the fish are looking up. Go small and precise with patterns like Mole Fly (#22), Parachute Adams (#20-24), Sparkle Dun PMD (#16-18), and Elk Hair Caddis (#14-18). Look for slower water and softer seams where fish might be sipping on emergers or taking dries off the top​

• Streamers: If you’re looking for bigger fish or want to mix things up, streamers can provide some explosive action. Woolly Buggers (#8-12), Baby Gonga (#6), and Mini Dungeon (#8) are solid choices. Cast these into deeper pools and along structures to provoke aggressive strikes from larger, territorial trout​. 

River Water Flow Chart

Hatches and Fly Patterns

Midges

• Patterns: Zebra Midge (Black, Olive, Red), Mercury Midge, Top Secret Midge
• Sizes: #20-24
• When to Use: Midges are a year-round staple on the South Platte, especially effective in the morning and late afternoon when fish feed on tiny insects just below the surface or in slower water.

Blue Wing Olives (BWOs)

• Patterns: Foam Wing Emerger, JuJu Baetis, Barr's Emerger BWO
• Sizes: #20-22
• When to Use: BWOs are a favorite during overcast days or in the late afternoon. The fish are often keyed in on these tiny mayflies, making them an excellent choice for dry fly fishing when you see surface activity.

Pale Morning Duns (PMDs)

• Patterns: PMD Emerger, Sparkle Dun PMD, Barr's PMD Emerger
• Sizes: #16-20
• When to Use: PMDs are more active in the mornings and early afternoons. Fishing PMD nymphs and emergers just below the surface or using dry flies when fish are visibly feeding on top can be very effective.

Caddisflies

• Patterns: Elk Hair Caddis, Buckskin Caddis, Goddard Caddis
• Sizes: #14-18
• When to Use: Caddis patterns are particularly useful during the warmer parts of the day and into the evening. Skating an Elk Hair Caddis across the surface can trigger aggressive strikes from hungry trout.

Terrestrials

• Patterns: Chubby Chernobyl, Fat Albert, Hopper Juan
• Sizes: #10-14
• When to Use: Terrestrial patterns such as hoppers, ants, and beetles are effective during the late summer and early fall months. Fish these along the banks and overhanging vegetation where trout often ambush terrestrials drifting in the water.

Attractor Nymphs

• Patterns: Pat’s Rubber Legs, San Juan Worm, Hare’s Ear Nymph
• Sizes: #10-16
• When to Use: Attractor nymphs are great for targeting deeper runs and faster water where trout are holding. These flies imitate various aquatic insects and are effective year-round, especially in higher water flows.

Emergers and Soft Hackles

• Patterns: RS2, Barr Emerger, Soft Hackle PT
• Sizes: #18-22
• When to Use: Emergers are highly effective when trout feed just below the surface during hatch periods. Soft hackles work well in riffles and seams where fish are feeding on emerging insects.

Streamers

• Patterns: Woolly Bugger, Mini Dungeon, Slump Buster
• Sizes: #6-10
• When to Use: Streamers are a great option for targeting larger, more aggressive trout, especially in deeper pools or undercut banks. For the best results, use them during lower-light conditions, like early morning or late evening.

Best Spots

Popular access points include:

• Cheesman Canyon Trailhead: Provides easy access to prime fishing spots with deep pools and riffles.
• Gill Trail: Offers access to various sections of the canyon, known for holding large trout.
• Bridge Crossing: Ideal for anglers seeking a mix of calm and fast waters​ 

For real-time data on river conditions, visit the Colorado Division of Water Resources.

Previous River Report

• August Cheeseman Canyon Fishing Report
• July Cheeseman Canyon Fishing Report

Safety Tips

Given the current flows and temperatures, wading can be hazardous. Always inform someone of your plans and avoid crossing the river at unsafe points. Use proper gear, such as a wading staff and boots, to maintain stability in the water. The swift currents can be dangerous, so exercise extreme caution​