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Nestled just an hour from Denver, the Deckers stretch of the South Platte River is a renowned playground for fly fishing enthusiasts. Known for its crystal-clear waters, challenging trout, and stunning scenery, Deckers offers a mix of excitement and tranquility that keeps anglers coming back year-round.
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South Platte River Fishing Report – Near Deckers – Jan 2024
The Deckers section of the South Platte River is winter fishing at its finest—beautiful scenery, peaceful waters, and a shot at hooking some quality trout. While the trout are less active in these colder months, they’re still willing to take a well-drifted nymph or midge. The low flows mean stealth is key, so keep your movements slow and your presentations precise.
Winter brings an added bonus to Deckers: fewer crowds. With the snow-covered banks and the sound of the river as your companion, it’s the perfect time to hone your technical fishing skills. Bundle up, and let the crisp mountain air fuel your next adventure on the South Platte.
Conditions Summary
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- Flow Rate: 50-60 CFS
- Water Temperature: 38-42°F
- Clarity: Crystal clear
- Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
- Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (Challenging but rewarding for dedicated anglers)
River Flow Chart
Deckers Hatch Chart (Winter)
| Month | Primary Hatches | Effective Patterns |
|---|---|---|
| December | Midges | Black Beauty (#20-24), Top Secret Midge (#20-22) |
| January | Midges | Mercury Midge (#20-22), Zebra Midge (#20-24) |
| February | Midges, Baetis | Parachute Adams (#18-22), BWO Emerger (#20-22) |
Top 3 Flies for the Week
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- Dry Fly: Parachute Adams (#20-22) – Sparse opportunities during midday warmth.
- Nymph: Top Secret Midge (#20-22) – A staple for winter nymphing.
- Streamer: Black Woolly Bugger (#8-10) – Fish it slow in deeper pools.
Tips Fly Fishing on Deckers
Seasonal Tip
Winter fishing requires patience and precision. Focus on slower water and adjust your rig to fish near the bottom.
Dry Fly
Opportunities are limited, but a small Parachute Adams can work during sunny midday hatches.
Nymphing
Use a two-fly nymph rig with a midge and small Baetis pattern. Adjust your weight to get into the strike zone.
Streamer Fishing
Slowly stripped streamers can tempt a larger trout, especially in shaded or deeper pools.
Access Points
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Deckers Bridge
- Description: Iconic access point with riffles, runs, and pools.
- Why Fish Here: Excellent for nymphing and the occasional dry fly action.
- Location: Near the town of Deckers, CO, off Highway 67.
- Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trumbull Area
- Description: A quieter stretch with slower water and deeper pools.
- Why Fish Here: Great for targeting larger trout with nymphs or streamers.
- Location: Downstream of Deckers, along County Road 67.
- Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½
Cheesman Canyon Trailhead
- Description: A stunning, technical section for adventurous anglers.
- Why Fish Here: Trophy trout and challenging conditions make it rewarding for experienced anglers.
- Location: Upstream of Deckers, near Cheesman Canyon.
- Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights
The Deckers section of the South Platte River is a gold-medal fishery with extensive public access. However, some areas border private property, so anglers should stick to designated access points. A valid Colorado fishing license is required, and catch-and-release is encouraged to preserve this high-quality fishery.
