.png?width=300&height=100&name=Rise%20Beyond%20Logo%2010.29.24%20300x100px%20(2).png "Rise Beyond Fly Fishing Co. logo featuring a cowboy riding a large trout, holding a fishing rod in one hand and a camera in the other, with stylized text in a rugged, outdoor-themed font")
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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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The Deckers section of the South Platte is delivering its usual mix of big, educated trout and technical winter fishing. Flows are low and steady, the water is crystal clear, and the fish are in full winter mode—which means they’re selective, sluggish, and hanging deep. If you’re thinking about fishing here, bring your A-game in presentation, small flies, and patience.
The best approach? Tiny midges, small Baetis nymphs, and long leaders with 6X or 7X tippet. Dry fly action is rare but not impossible—if you’re lucky, a few rising fish might take a clustered midge dry in the late afternoon. For those after big brown trout, a slow-drifted leech or sculpin pattern near structure might be worth the effort. Expect company—Deckers gets fished year-round, even in winter.
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Conditions Summary
- Flow Rate: 75-95 CFS (stable and clear)
- Water Temperature: 34-39°F
- Clarity: Gin-clear
- Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
- Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5 – Technical, but worth it for skilled anglers)
River Flow Chart
Deckers Hatch Chart
| Month | Primary Hatches | Effective Patterns |
|---|---|---|
| December (Previous Month) | Midges, Baetis | Black Beauty (#20-24), RS2 (#20-22) |
| January (Current Month) | Midges, Baetis, Scuds | Top Secret Midge (#20-22), Olive Scud (#16-18) |
| February (Next Month) | Midges, Baetis | Mercury Midge (#20-22), Zebra Midge (#20-24) |
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Top 3 Flies for the Week
- Dry Fly: Griffith’s Gnat (#20-22) – If fish are rising in slow tailouts.
- Nymph: Jujubee Midge (#20-24) – Perfect for deep winter pools.
- Streamer: Pine Squirrel Leech (#10-12) – Slowly twitched for larger browns.
Tips for Fly Fishing Deckers
Seasonal Tip
Trout are in energy conservation mode—keep your drifts slow, flies small, and presentations perfect.
Dry Fly
Occasional rising fish in slow pools on sunny afternoons—stick with small midges or BWOs.
Nymphing
A double-nymph rig with midges and Baetis patterns will produce the best results. Use light tippet (6X-7X) and be ready for subtle takes.
Streamer Fishing
Big browns are still willing to eat, but they’re not chasing. Try dead-drifting a leech or sculpin for a chance at a heavier fish.
Access Points
Bridge Crossing (Main Parking Lot Access)
- Description: The most heavily fished section, but also the most productive.
- Why Fish Here: Consistently holds large fish but requires precise presentations.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trumbull Area (Mid-Section)
- Description: A mix of riffles, deep pools, and undercut banks.
- Why Fish Here: Good shot at solitude with solid winter holding water.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lower Deckers (Downstream toward Scraggy View)
- Description: Wider sections with fewer anglers, but also more technical.
- Why Fish Here: Less pressure and a better shot at big browns.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights
- Artificial flies and lures only—no bait fishing.
- Catch-and-release encouraged—this section gets heavy pressure.
- Private property markers: Watch for fences, posted signs, and ranch boundaries along certain stretches.
- Winter safety tip: Icy riverbanks and deep wading spots can be dangerous—use caution.
If you're up for a technical but rewarding challenge, Deckers in winter is one of the best fisheries in Colorado—just be prepared for low, clear water and highly selective fish.
