South Platte River Near Deckers | Modern Reports For Modern Anglers

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.

Listen to the Podcast!

Deckers in March is a tale of two rivers—one day it’s calm, clear, and full of rising fish, the next it’s a windy, freezing test of patience and mental toughness. Flows are still low, meaning spooky trout and technical presentations are the rule, not the exception. But as the days get longer and Baetis hatches start to ramp up, fishing is slowly shifting into spring mode.

Midges remain a staple, and Baetis (BWOs) are starting to appear on cloudy afternoons. Trout are still hanging in deep, slow pools, but on warmer days, they’ll creep into riffles to snack on emerging nymphs. Streamer fishing? Not the most productive, but if you find an aggressive brown, a slow-stripped leech might trigger a strike.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 60-85 CFS (Low and technical)
• Water Temperature: 38-42°F
• Clarity: Gin clear with slight color after warm days
• Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
• Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5 – Technical but improving with spring hatches)

River Flow Chart

Deckers Hatch Chart

Top Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Blue Wing Olive (#18-22) – Best fished in the afternoons when Baetis are hatching.
• Nymph: RS2 (#20-22) – A must-have for picky tailwater trout.
• Streamer: Mini Leech (#10-12) – Slow strips through deep pools may wake up a bigger fish.

Tips for Fly Fishing Deckers in March

Seasonal Tip

Cloudy days are prime time—Baetis thrive in overcast weather, and trout are more likely to feed on top.

Dry Fly

While not an all-day event yet, Baetis hatches are starting to bring some risers out.

Nymphing

This remains the best method—small Baetis, midges, and scuds fished deep will be your ticket to success.

Streamer Fishing

Not the most effective approach, but dead-drifting or lightly twitching a small streamer can sometimes trigger a response.

Access Points

Bridge Crossing (Lower Deckers)

• Description: Easy access, deep pools, and great winter holding water.
• Why Fish Here: Consistently productive and a favorite spot for winter nymphing.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Trumbull Area

• Description: Slower runs and riffles ideal for Baetis nymphing.
• Why Fish Here: Less pressured than the main stretches near the bridge.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Mid-Deckers Section

• Description: Deeper pockets and plenty of structure.
• Why Fish Here: Great for prospecting with nymph rigs and the occasional dry fly action.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

• Artificial flies and lures only—no bait fishing.
• Barbless hooks required.
• Catch-and-release encouraged to protect wild trout populations.
• Respect private land boundaries—stay in public access areas.
• Watch for ice along the banks, especially in shaded areas.

Deckers is slowly waking up from winter, and with Baetis hatches starting, the fishing is only going to improve. If you can dial in the right drift, you'll be rewarded with some of the best technical tailwater fishing in Colorado.