.png?width=300&height=100&name=Copy%20of%20Rise%20Beyond%20Logo%2012.31.24%20(300%20x%20100%20px).png "Rise Beyond Fly Fishing Co. logo featuring a cowboy riding a large trout, holding a fishing rod in one hand and a camera in the other, with stylized text in a rugged, outdoor-themed font")
.png)
The tailwater is cold, ultra-clear, and unforgiving, with trout holding tight to structure in deep canyon runs and soft transitional seams. Feeding windows are short but intense when sunlight finally reaches the river floor. This is pure Cheesman Canyon winter fly fishing: technical, demanding, and deeply satisfying when it comes together.
Updated: December 15, 2025
The South Platte River through Cheesman Canyon is firmly in winter mode. Cold bottom-release flows keep water temperatures stable, but clarity is at its peak, which means trout see everything. Fish are holding deep in pockets, seams, and canyon troughs where they can feed efficiently without moving far.
This week’s update for Cheesman Canyon fly fishing centers on precision and restraint. Midges dominate the menu, with baetis nymphs showing during milder afternoons. Long leaders, light weight, and controlled drifts are mandatory. If you rush water here in winter, the canyon will remind you quickly who is in charge.
Listen to the Audio Overview
Conditions Summary
%20(4).png?width=800&height=175&name=Guide%20Rating%20(800%20x%20175%20px)%20(4).png)
Flow: Stable winter tailwater release
Water Temperature: Mid 30s and consistent
Air Temperature: High 30s to low 40s during the day, colder mornings
Clarity: Ultra clear
Crowds: Light due to winter access and hiking requirements
Best Window: 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Fishing Type Focus: Technical nymphing with small midges and baetis
Weather
Cheesman Canyon Colorado Weather
Cold mornings and brief midday warmth define the fishing window. Calm, sunny days offer the best chance for consistent feeding, while light cloud cover can extend midge activity slightly. Once shadows fill the canyon, water temperatures drop quickly and trout shut down.
Top Flies in Your Box This Week
- Black Beauty 20 to 24
- Zebra Midge (black or red) 20 to 22
- Mercury Midge 20 to 22
- RS2 (black or gray) 20 to 22
- WD-40 20 to 22
- Juju Baetis 18 to 22
- Barrs Emerger 18 to 20
- Small Pheasant Tail 18 to 20
Pro Rig of the Week: Cheesman Canyon Precision Rig
- Indicator: Small yarn or minimal air-lock
- Lead Fly: Barrs Emerger 18 to 20 or Small Pheasant Tail 18
- Dropper: Black Beauty or Zebra Midge 20 to 22
- Weight: One small split shot adjusted to maintain bottom contact without snagging
- Target Water: Deep pocket tails, slow seams below boulders, and canyon troughs
Hatch Chart for December
| Bug Type | Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Midges | 20 to 26 | Primary winter food source |
| Baetis nymphs | 18 to 22 | Active on warmer afternoons |
| Winter stones | 16 to 18 | Rare but possible |
Download the South Platte Hatch Chart
Access Points
Gill Trail – Lower Canyon Entrance
Steady access to deep winter buckets and classic Cheesman runs.
⭐ 5.0
Mid-Canyon Pullouts (via Gill Trail)
Technical sight-nymphing in clear light; best on sunny days.
⭐ 4.7
Upper Canyon Pools
Colder, darker, and tougher but holds some of the largest fish.
⭐ 4.6
Hayman Regrowth Section
Open terrain, easier casting, softer winter edges.
⭐ 4.4
Stop Here After the River
Bud’s Bar-Sedalia
Old-school, cash-only, unapologetic Colorado. This is the place guides hit when they want something simple and perfect after a long day on the South Platte. Order the single cheeseburger with onions, grab a side of chips, and take in the atmosphere that hasn’t changed in decades. It’s loud, it’s honest, and it hits the spot after hiking in and out of canyon water all day.
Local Regulations & Notes
- Artificial flies only in main stretches
- Watch for ice shelves in shadowed canyon walls
- Respect trail closures and posted signage
- Fish are extremely selective; micro-adjust drifts and weight often
FAQ
Q: Is Cheesman Canyon good in December?
A: Yes, but it’s ultra-technical. Clear water and small bugs dominate.
Q: Do fish rise in winter here?
A: Very rarely; only occasional midge clusters on warm, still days.
Q: What is the best technique right now?
A: Two-midge nymph rig with light weight and long, drag-free drifts.
Q: Is the hike difficult in winter?
A: Some sections are icy; traction helps significantly.
Q: Where are trout holding most consistently?
A: Deep buckets, slow inside seams, and canyon-wall shelves.
Q: What is the biggest mistake anglers make?
A: Too much weight and rushing through good water.
Q: How difficult is Cheesman Canyon in winter?
A: Very. Clear water, cold temperatures, and educated trout demand patience and precision.
Q: Is it worth hiking in during winter?
A: Yes, if conditions are safe. Pressure drops quickly and fish are more predictable.
Q: Are dry flies an option right now?
A: Rarely. Midges may bring fish up briefly on calm sunny afternoons, but subsurface is the program.
Q: Do streamers work in Cheesman Canyon in winter?
A: Occasionally, but small nymphs consistently outproduce streamers in cold clear flows.
Q: What tippet should I use?
A: 5X to your lead fly and 6X to your midge dropper is standard.
Q: When does the bite shut down?
A: Typically once canyon shadows take over, often shortly after 2:30 p.m. in winter.
Companion Article for December
Photo of the Month
Credit: Colorado Trout Hunters
Book Colorado Trout Hunters for Private Waters and Top access along the South Platte