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Waterton Canyon doesn’t get the attention it deserves. With easy access just outside Denver, clear water, and trout that see fewer flies than their Deckers cousins, this stretch rewards the early riser and the patient angler.
Updated: 12/01/2025
Flows bumped slightly this week but remain low and ultra-clear, creating classic late-November Waterton conditions where stealth is everything and trout slide into deeper mid-channel slots. The canyon has seen colder overnight temps, making mornings slow until the sun hits the water. Midday midge activity is consistent, and the big prize this week has been sight-nymphing tight slots along the shaded walls. Pressure remains moderate, but with bike-only access, most anglers spread out fast. Expect small flies, light tippet, and slow presentations.
Listen to the Audio Overview
Conditions Summary
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Flow: ~80 CFS (stable week over week)
Water Temp: Upper 30s
Air Temp: Low 40s mid-day
Clarity: Very clear, 5 ft visibility
Crowds: Moderate
Best Window: 11 am to 2:30 pm
5 Day Weather Forecast
Expect cold canyon air early, with the mid-day warm-up making most of the difference. Guides are reporting fish waking up late and feeding only once the light softens.
Fishing Type Scores
Dry Fly: ⭐⭐
Nymphing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Streamer: ⭐⭐⭐
Top Flies in Your Box
Late November is all about small midges, slim baetis, and subtle presentations. Bring confidence patterns and keep everything sparse.
Ten must-haves for Waterton Canyon right now:
- Black Beauty 20–22
- Top Secret Midge 22–24
- Mercury Midge 22
- Zebra Midge Black 20–22
- Cream Midge Larva 20
- Juju Baetis 20
- RS2 Black 20–22
- Barr’s Emerger BWO 20
- Bling Midge 20
- Mini Leech (Black or Olive) 14
Pro Rig of the Week
The Waterton Winter Edge-Walker
Leader: 10–11 ft, 6x fluoro
Top Fly: Top Secret Midge 22
Dropper: Black Beauty 22
Weight: Tiny split shot, only enough to tick bottom in soft edges
Indicator: Yarn micro-indicator for delicate takes
Hatch Chart for November
| Hatch Type | Bugs You’ll See | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Primary | Midges (cream, black) | Strongest 11 am to 2 pm |
| Secondary | Baetis | Light but present on cloudy days |
| Tertiary | Winter Stones | Rare but possible near rocky shelves |
Primary: Midges
Black Beauty, Top Secret Midge, Mercury Midge
Secondary: Baetis
RS2, WD40, small Barrs BWO
Tertiary: Scuds
Olive and Grey sizes 16 to 18
Access Points
Trailhead to First Mile
Wide, slow edges with good sight nymphing around midday.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Marston Diversion Structure
Consistent holding water with defined seams and winter troughs.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Above the Second Bridge
Narrower canyon water, light pressure, small trout but steady action.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Trailhead to Mile 1
Easiest access and sees the most pressure. Best in the deeper bends and mid-channel troughs.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Mile 1 to Mile 2
Great winter structure with deeper rocks and shelves.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Mile 2 to Mile 3
Less traffic. Holds fish in slower seams along canyon walls.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Above Mile 3
Long walk but low pressure. Coldest water and slower bite until mid-day.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Local Regulations and Notes
No dogs allowed
Road closed to private vehicles
Cyclists and hikers have priority
Flows controlled by Strontia Springs releases
FAQ
Q: Are there still rising fish this time of year?
A: Yes, mostly mid-day midge sippers on calm warm days.
Q: Is the canyon windy in winter?
A: Wind funnels unpredictably but is usually lighter inside the walls than outside.
Q: Can I ride a bike into the canyon?
A: Yes, and it is the fastest way to reach the better water.
Q: How far should I walk for the best fishing?
A: Most consistent winter water is between the Marston Diversion and the second bridge.
Q: Are streamers productive?
A: Fair. Best early, late, or under cloud cover.
Q: What depth should I run nymphs this week?
A: Just off the bottom in slow troughs. Keep rigs shallow in the upper canyon.
Stop Here After You Fish
Platte River Bar & Grill – Littleton, CO
A legit local hangout fifteen minutes from the Waterton gate. No pretense, no crowds of tourists, just burgers, beers, and the kind of warm, easy atmosphere that feels right after hiking the canyon.
Taco Tuesday, grab a cold Coors draft, and sit on the patio if the weather cooperates. Dont worry, they have heaters.
Website: http://theplatteriverbarandgrill.com/
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