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Cheesman Canyon is the most technical stretch of the South Platte River near Denver, especially in winter. Low clear water, heavily pressured trout, and steep canyon walls create a fishery that rewards patience and precision.
Cheesman is fishing how Cheesman always fishes this time of year, technical, clear, and unforgiving if you’re sloppy. Flows are stable, water clarity is near perfect, and fish are holding in classic canyon structure, but they’re not giving you much margin for error.
Midday is your window. As the sun hits the water, fish loosen just enough to feed more consistently. You’ll get light BWO activity, but this is still a nymphing game. Long leaders, light tippet, and perfect drifts are the difference here.
Listen to the Podcast
Conditions Summary
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- Flow Rate: ~120–180 CFS (stable)
- Water Temp: 39–43°F
- Air Temp: 48–62°F
- Clarity: Crystal clear
- Best Times: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Weather
Cheesman Canyon Hatch Chart
| Month | Hatch | Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| February | Midges | #20–24 | Primary food source |
| March | Midges, Early BWOs | #18–24 | Midday activity |
| April | BWOs, Midges | #18–22 | Consistent midday windows |
Top Flies for April – Cheesman Canyon
🔥 Fish These First
- Top Secret Midge #22–24
- Juju Baetis #20
- RS2 #20–22
If you’re only rigging once, start here.
Fly Box for the Month
Match the Hatch
| Fly | Size | When | Where |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parachute BWO | #20–22 | Midday hatch | Tailouts and slower glides |
| BWO Emerger | #20–22 | Hatch transition | Just below surface film |
| Foam Wing RS2 | #20 | Late morning | Suspended fish in softer seams |
Big Eats
| Fly | Size | When | Where |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kreelex | #10–12 | Low light | Deeper runs and structure |
| Mini Leech | #12 | Afternoon | Transition water and buckets |
Wildcards
| Fly | Size | When | Where |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zebra Midge (Black/Silver) | #22–24 | High pressure | Deep slow seams |
| Mercury Baetis | #20 | Selective fish | Clear water transitions |
How to Fish It
- Start with Top Secret Midge + Juju Baetis on a long leader setup
- Depth and drift matter more than fly changes
- Rotate in RS2 when fish refuse or get selective
- Stay back, long casts and stealth are critical
- Match the Hatch only when you see consistent activity
Tips Fly Fishing on Cheesman Canyon
Seasonal Strategy
Still early spring patterns. Fish deeper early, adjust slightly higher as temps rise.
Dry Fly
Possible, but technical and short-lived. Don’t rely on it.
Nymphing
Primary method. Light tippet, small flies, perfect drifts.
Streamer Fishing
Limited but can work in deeper structure during lower light.
Access Points
Gill Trail Access | 📍 Locals Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5.0
Classic canyon entry with access to prime technical water and holding fish.
Cheesman Canyon Trailhead | 📍 Locals Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5.0
Main access to the canyon with consistent runs, seams, and deeper structure.
Lower Canyon Stretch | 📍 Locals Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.5
Less pressured water with strong holding lies and transition zones.
→ Want more access points, maps, and real-time updates?
[Explore the River Whispers Beta App]
Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights
Regulated by Colorado Parks and Wildlife
- Artificial flies and lures only
- Catch and release enforced in most sections
- Barbless hooks recommended
- Respect all posted boundaries and access points
FAQ on this Spot
Is Cheesman Canyon fishing good right now?
Yes, but it’s technical. Fish are feeding midday, but presentation has to be perfect.
What flies should I use in Cheesman Canyon?
Small midge and baetis patterns like Top Secret Midge, Juju Baetis, and RS2 are key.
What is the best time of day to fish Cheesman Canyon?
Late morning through mid-afternoon offers the most consistent activity.
Where should I fish in Cheesman Canyon?
Focus on deeper runs, seams, and slower glides where fish can hold comfortably.
Is Cheesman Canyon good for beginners?
No. This is highly technical water better suited for experienced anglers.
Do I need a guide for Cheesman Canyon?
Not required, but strongly recommended if you want to shorten the learning curve.
