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When everyone flocks to the South Platte or Clear Creek, savvy anglers know to head the other direction. The Front Range is packed with small, often overlooked creeks near Denver—places where the fish are wild, the crowds are light, and the experience is all yours.
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If you’re tired of shoulder-to-shoulder casting and spooked trout, these five creeks offer a refreshing reset.
1. Bear Creek – Between Morrison and Evergreen
Distance from Denver: 25–40 minutes
Species: Browns, Rainbows
Flows Best Around: 20–60 CFS
Why it’s overlooked: Most anglers pass it on their way to Deckers.
Why you should fish it:
- Consistent dry fly action from late April through June
- Easy access via Bear Creek Lake Park and Lair o’ the Bear
- Wild browns in clear water, especially early mornings
Top Flies:
- Parachute Adams (#16–18)
- Elk Hair Caddis (#14–16)
- Copper John (#18–20)
Pro Tip: Fish early before tubers show up, and focus on shaded banks and deep bends.
2. South Boulder Creek – Walker Ranch Area
Distance from Denver: 45–60 minutes
Species: Browns, Rainbows
Flows Best Around: 40–90 CFS
Why it’s overlooked: Requires a hike, and Boulder anglers often stop at Gross Reservoir.
Why you should fish it:
- Pocket water that rewards stealth and precision
- Cold, clear water year-round below Gross Dam
- Consistent hatches and excellent dry-dropper fishing
Top Flies:
- Royal Wulff (#14–16)
- Stimulator (#14)
- Beadhead Pheasant Tail (#16–18)
Pro Tip: Carry light—everything down means everything back up. Wear good boots and bring a snack.
3. St. Vrain Creek – Lyons to Longmont
Distance from Denver: ~50 minutes
Species: Browns, Rainbows
Flows Best Around: 40–70 CFS
Why it’s overlooked: Overshadowed by Boulder Creek and the Big Thompson.
Why you should fish it:
- Varied water types from riffles to plunge pools
- Easy access via parks, turnouts, and trails
- Underfished due to its more urban feel in places
Top Flies:
- Blue Wing Olive (#18–20)
- Hare's Ear Nymph (#16–18)
- Griffith's Gnat (#20–22)
Pro Tip: Fish the seams behind Lyons and after light rains when visibility remains high but pressure drops.
4. Tarryall Creek – Collard Ranch Area
Distance from Denver: ~1 hr 45 min
Species: Browns, Brookies
Flows Best Around: 25–50 CFS
Why it’s overlooked: Remote, newly opened public section, minimal signage.
Why you should fish it:
- Lightly pressured and visually stunning
- Excellent terrestrial and attractor dry fly action
- Wild brookies mixed with fat browns in beaver ponds
Top Flies:
- Adams Parachute (#16–18)
- Prince Nymph (#14–16)
- Caddis Pupa (#16–18)
Pro Tip: Bring a topo map or GPS—the Collard Ranch section isn’t well-marked but absolutely worth it.
5. Big Dry Creek – Westminster to Thornton
Distance from Denver: 20–30 minutes
Species: Stocked trout, warmwater species
Flows Best Around: Variable—fish post-rain
Why it’s overlooked: Runs through parks and suburbia—hardcore anglers write it off.
Why you should fish it:
- Unexpectedly fun urban fly fishing
- Great for a quick after-work session
- Potential for carp, bass, and even stockers
Top Flies:
- San Juan Worm (#12–14)
- Woolly Bugger (#8–10)
- Clouser Minnow (#6–8)
Pro Tip: Focus on deeper holes and slow bends near walking paths and bridges. Carry light, blend in, and keep expectations fun—not trophy-level.
FAQ: Overlooked Fly Fishing Near Denver
What are the best small creeks to fly fish near Denver?
Bear Creek, South Boulder Creek, St. Vrain, Tarryall Creek, and Big Dry Creek all offer great fly fishing with fewer people.
Is Bear Creek good for fly fishing?
Yes. It has strong dry fly activity and a mix of browns and rainbows. Best from Morrison to Evergreen in spring and early summer.
Where can I fly fish near Denver without the crowds?
Try hiking into South Boulder Creek or exploring lesser-known stretches of the St. Vrain. Tarryall Creek is an excellent full-day option.
Can I fly fish urban creeks near Denver?
Yes. Big Dry Creek and similar suburban streams hold warmwater species and the occasional trout—great for practice or quick outings.
