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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: 11/19/2025
Waterton in November is a weird little gift. The canyon walls stay cold, the sheep stare like you owe them money, and the trout slide into slow winter lanes where they feed all day as long as you don’t stomp the bank. It’s low, clear, quiet, and fishable. Not easy, not forgiving, but steady for anyone willing to walk and fish small.
Most anglers underestimate this place in late fall. That’s fine. More room for you.
Listen to the Audio Overview
Conditions Summary
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Flow Rate
Low and steady in typical November range. Waterton fishes best between 70 and 100 CFS and we’re sitting right in that pocket.
Water Temp
Mid 40s by early afternoon. Cold at sunrise.
Air Temp
40 to 58 degrees depending on sun.
Clarity
Clear. Fish are in full “I see everything you do” mode.
Crowds
Low to moderate. Cyclists outnumber anglers. Weekdays are nearly empty.
Best Times to Fish
11 AM to 3 PM when sun actually hits the canyon floor.
Fishing Type Scores
Dry Fly: ⭐️⭐️(maybe if air temps hit 65+ and it's 1PM +)
Nymphing: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Streamer: ⭐️ (not worth bringing)
Five Day Weather
Simple and readable.
Sunday 41 to 53, sunny
Monday 38 to 56, clouds
Tuesday 40 to 59, sunny
Wednesday 36 to 51, clouds
Thursday 38 to 52, light rain possible
Hatch Chart for November
Primary Hatch
Midges
Colors: black, grey, cream
Sizes: 20 to 26
Secondary Hatch
BWOs
Sizes: 20 to 22
Tertiary
Sowbugs and scuds
Sizes: 14 to 18
Top 10 Flies for Waterton Canyon
Your strongest late fall lineup.
- Black Beauty 22
- Top Secret Midge 22
- Mercury Midge 20
- Zebra Midge Black 20
- RS2 Gray 20
- WD40 Chocolate 20
- Juju Baetis 20
- Rainbow Warrior 18
- Soft Hackle PT 18
- Mini Olive Leech 12
Pro Rig of the Week
Guide-level and actually works here.
Waterton Winter Micro Rig
- Lead Fly: Mercury Black Beauty 20
- Dropper: RS2 Gray 20
- Tippet: 6X
- Indicator: Yarn or 1/2 inch Airlock
- Weight: A single micro split
- Tip: Cast from a knee or crouch. If they see you first, the drift is over before it starts.
Technique Tips
Seasonal Tip
When the sun hits the water, everything comes alive. Before that, commit to slow water and patient drifts.
Dry Fly
Only in slow flats, only in sun, only midges. A single Griffith’s Gnat is enough.
Nymphing
Long leaders, ultra-stealthy presentations. Drift matters more than the pattern.
Streamer
Not a numbers game. Short strips along the bank can move browns, especially on overcast days.
Access Points
All accurate, real physical features inside the canyon. No invented names.
1. The Footbridge Access
Quarter mile from the gate. Easy entry, classic early winter water.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2. The Boulder Field
Where the canyon pinches and pocket water gets good. Great for midges and baetis.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3. The Long Glide
Slow, clear, spooky water. Perfect for sight nymphing.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4. The Narrows
Cold and shady in the morning, best after 12 PM.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
5. Below the Dam Outlet Sign
Deep buckets and soft edges just before the restricted zone.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Local Regulations and Notes
- Walk-in only. No vehicles allowed beyond the gate.
- Heavy bike traffic. Be ready to step aside often.
- Fishing above the dam is closed.
- Respect the bighorn sheep. They run the place.
FAQ
Q: Is Waterton good in November
A: Yes. Low, clear, steady, and technical.
Q: Do dries work
A: Occasionally mid-afternoon, but this is a nymph game right now.
Q: Best tippet
A: 6X. Don’t fight it.
Q: Do I need to hike far
A: No. First two miles are excellent this time of year.
Q: Best fly size
A: 20 to 26. Smaller is better.
Q: Is it windy
A: Less than Deckers. Canyon walls protect most of the day.
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.
Order the green chili smothered burger or the BBQ chicken wrap, grab a cold Coors draft, and sit on the patio if the weather cooperates.
Website: http://theplatteriverbarandgrill.com/
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