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Cheesman Canyon isn’t just a river—it’s a technical trout dojo. The fish are picky, the water is gin-clear, and if you show up with the wrong fly, you’ll leave with a masterclass in humility. But show up with the right bugs? You’ll earn your stripes—and maybe a grip-and-grin worth bragging about.
Listen to the Podcast!
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Here are the top 5 flies for Cheesman Canyon in spring, hand-picked for May based on real-time hatches, proven guides, and what actually works—not what just looks good in a fly box.
1. RS2 (Gray or Black, #20–22)
This fly needs no introduction. If you’re fishing Cheesman in May and not carrying a box full of RS2s, you’re doing it wrong. It’s a BWO emerger classic, subtle enough for fussy fish but deadly when drifted right.
When to Use: Late morning to early afternoon, especially when you see noses breaking the surface.
Pro Tip: Fish it as a dropper under a small dry or trail it behind a heavier nymph.
2. Top Secret Midge (#22–24)
Created for Cheesman. Dominant in spring. A must-have for early morning midging madness. It’s like trout candy when they’re sipping tiny bugs just below the surface.
When to Use: Calm mornings when midges rule the menu.
Pro Tip: Pair it with 6X or 7X tippet and keep your drift laser-clean.
3. JuJu Baetis (#18–20)
This fly puts in overtime when the Baetis are moving. Slim, flashy, and just enough attitude to get noticed in deeper runs. If the RS2 is too subtle, tie on the JuJu.
When to Use: Overcast days or when the BWO nymphs are active and fish are deep.
Pro Tip: Drop it 18–24” below a flashy attractor like a Flashback PT to get it down quick.
4. Barr’s Emerger (BWO, #18–22)
An all-star emerger pattern. Subtle profile, natural movement, and trout-approved in technical tailwaters like Cheesman. If the RS2 isn’t working, this one usually is.
When to Use: During or just before a BWO hatch.
Pro Tip: Fish it higher in the water column, just under the film. Dead drift first, then swing it.
5. Elk Hair Caddis (Tan, #16–18)
When the caddis pop in late spring, this is your dry fly MVP. Floats high, skates great, and triggers surface eats from trout that normally act like they have PhDs in fly rejection.
When to Use: Afternoon into early evening on warm days.
Pro Tip: Twitch it. Skate it. Move it. Caddis don’t sit still, and neither should you.
Spring Tactics for Cheesman Canyon
- Stealth mode: If they see you, you’re already done. Stay low, move slow, and ditch the neon gear.
- Tippet game: 5X to 7X fluorocarbon. Anything thicker and you’re just decorating the water.
- Timing matters: Fish mid-morning to early afternoon for BWOs and late afternoon for caddis.
- Know your water: Fish the seams, tailouts, and structure. Don’t waste time on flat water unless you see risers.
Cheesman Canyon Access Points
- Gill Trailhead: The main gateway. Moderate hike, heavy payoff.
- Family Pool: Trout stacked like cordwood—if you can sneak up on them.
- Ice Box Pool: Deep, clear, and humbling. Bring your A-game.
Final Word: Earn Your Cheesman Stripes
Fishing Cheesman Canyon in spring is a rite of passage. It’s where good anglers go to get better—and where great flies do the heavy lifting. These 5 flies are your starter pack for May, but success comes from matching the hatch, reading the water, and outsmarting trout that have seen everything.
So bring your RS2s. Bring your patience. And maybe leave your ego in the truck.
