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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
Deckers is still holding its crown as a top fly fishing destination in Colorado. The combination of moderate flows and clear water makes it a winter hotspot for anglers chasing trophy trout. While the mornings may be chilly, the mid-day sun warms up the river just enough to get fish actively feeding. With fewer anglers and the beauty of snow-dusted banks, this is winter fishing at its finest.
That said, you’ll need to bring your A-game. Trout here are educated, so perfect drifts and smaller flies will be your ticket to success. It’s also a prime time for nymphing, but don’t count out a midge hatch bringing risers to the surface. The river is alive, and the fish are hungry—just don’t forget to dress warmly!
Conditions Summary
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- Flow Rate: 90-110 CFS
- Water Temperature: 38-42°F
- Clarity: Clear
- Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
- Current Conditions Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5) – Beautiful setting but technical conditions with low flows.
River Flow Chart
Deckers Hatch Chart
| Month | Primary Hatches | Effective Patterns |
|---|---|---|
| December | Midges, BWOs | Zebra Midge (#20-24), Blue Wing Olive (#18-22) |
| January | Midges | Black Beauty (#20-24), WD-40 (#20-22) |
| February | Midges, BWOs | Top Secret Midge (#20-22), Griffith’s Gnat (#20-24) |
Top 3 Flies for the Week
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- Dry Fly: Griffith’s Gnat (#20-24) – Use during midge hatches in the afternoon.
- Nymph: Zebra Midge (#20-24) – Always effective in Deckers’ winter conditions.
- Streamer: Olive Woolly Bugger (#8-10) – Target deeper pools for aggressive strikes.
Tips Fly Fishing in Deckers
Seasonal Tip
Winter is all about timing and patience. Focus on mid-day fishing when the water and fish are more active.
Dry Fly
Look for subtle rises during sunny afternoons. A Griffith’s Gnat or small Parachute Adams can do the trick.
Nymphing
Go small and precise. Pair a Zebra Midge with a smaller BWO nymph for a double threat. Use indicators for better depth control.
Streamer Fishing
If nymphing slows down, switch to a smaller Woolly Bugger and fish the deeper, slower runs.
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.
