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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.
If You Know, You Know — And You Fish Deckers Early
Deckers on the South Platte is no secret. But this week, the real edge comes from timing, stealth, and a fly box built for picky fish. Flows have settled around 246 CFS, and the fish are focused on Tricos and PMDs in the early hours. By 11 a.m., you’re either back at the car sipping coffee or wondering why no one’s eating your #10 hopper.
Expect clear water, skittish trout, and an early AM hatch window that rewards precision. Long leaders and soft presentations are critical, especially as the sun climbs and pressure builds.
🎧 Listen to the Podcast
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Conditions Summary
- Flow Rate: 246 CFS
- Water Temp: ~61°F mid-morning
- Air Temp: 65–85°F
- Clarity: Clear
- Best Times: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Crowds: Moderate weekdays, heavy weekends
- Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Deckers Hatch Chart
| Month | PMDs | Tricos | Caddis | Midges | Hoppers | Ants/Beetles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| June | ✅✅ | ✅ | ✅✅ | ✅✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| July | ✅✅✅ | ✅✅✅ | ✅✅ | ✅✅ | ✅✅ | ✅✅ |
| August | ✅✅ | ✅✅✅ | ✅ | ✅✅ | ✅✅✅ | ✅✅ |
Nymphs
| Pattern | Size |
|---|---|
| TDJ Sunken Trico | 20–22 |
| Gray Sparkle Wing RS2 | 20–24 |
| Darth Baetis | 20–22 |
| Frenchie | 18 |
| Two Bit Hooker (Black) | 16 |
| UV Midge (Black/Brown) | 18–22 |
Dries
| Pattern | Size |
|---|---|
| CDC Biot Trico Spinner | 20–22 |
| Matthew's Sparkle Dun (BWO) | 18–22 |
| Amy’s Ant | 14 |
| Parachute Adams | 18–22 |
| Elk Hair Caddis (Tan) | 16 |
| Beetle Patterns (Black Foam) | 16–18 |
Streamers
| Pattern | Notes |
|---|---|
| Mini Leech (olive or black) | Best in soft eddies and pockets |
| Baby Gonga (brown/olive) | Low-light only |
| White Bugger #10 | Small, twitchy retrieves |
Tips for Deckers
- Dry Fly: Work the flats early with #22 spinners. Long, dead drifts matter.
- Nymphing: Focus on small baetis patterns and natural midges in slow water.
- Streamer Fishing: Not a numbers game, but low-light sessions can pull out bigs.
- Weekend Warning: Be on the water before 6:30 AM if you want your pick of water.
Access Points
| Spot | Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Bridge Crossing | Classic water with deep bends | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Lone Rock | Dry-dropper heaven with riffles and runs | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Flatrock | Technical but rewarding | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Trumbull Pullout | Easy access with mid-river seams | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
Regulations & Notes
- Catch-and-release encouraged
- Barbless hooks recommended
- Be courteous to other anglers—tight quarters on weekends
FAQs: Deckers Fly Fishing
Q: What rod setup works best?
A: A 9’ 4–5 weight with a dry-dropper or euro rig is ideal.
Q: Can you fish mid-day?
A: You can, but your catch rate drops sharply. Mornings are where it’s at.
Q: What’s the best fly for summer at Deckers?
A: A CDC Trico Spinner early, followed by a Frenchie below an Amy’s Ant late morning.
Q: Is Deckers good for beginners?
A: It’s great water, but these fish are educated. Beginners can do well with guidance or luck.
Q: Do I need waders in August?
A: Not really. Wet wading is comfortable, especially midday.
Q: Can you bring dogs?
A: Yes, but leash up—this is tight water with plenty of traffic.
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River Whisper Flow & Forecast Insights
Real-time flows and seasonal context pulled straight from the DWR and USGS — so you can fish smarter, not just harder. Updated daily, decoded weekly.
