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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: Today
Waterton Canyon feels like winter but still fishes well if you slow down and wait for the midday bump. The canyon walls trap cold air early, so fish stay glued to the bottom until the sun reaches the water. Once it warms, midges and the occasional baetis get moving and trout feed in predictable soft edges. Expect long, quiet walks, spooky fish, and small patterns all day. If you like solitude and clean water, this is your week.
Listen to the Audio Overview
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Conditions Summary
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Flow: 150 CFS
Water Temp: High 30s to low 40s
Air Temp: 38 to 54
Clarity: Clear
Crowds: Low
Best Window: 11 am to 3 pm
5 Day Weather Forecast
Sun: 40 to 48, clear
Mon: 32 to 53, clouds
Tue: 32 to 53, clouds
Wed: 37 to 44, clouds
Thu: 34 to 48, light snow
Top Flies in Your Box
Late November is all about small midges, slim baetis, and subtle presentations. Bring confidence patterns and keep everything sparse.
Hatch Chart for November
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
Pro Rig of the Week
Waterton Winter Deep Edge Rig
10 ft 5x
Top fly: size 20 Mercury Midge
Dropper: size 22 Black Beauty
Micro split shot 8 inches above the top fly
Small yarn indicator set just deep enough to tick the bottom
Fishing Type Scores
Dry Fly: ⭐⭐
Nymphing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Streamer: ⭐⭐⭐
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: ⭐⭐⭐
Local Regulations and Notes
Canyon closed to all vehicular traffic
Hiking or biking only
Sheep closures occasionally posted at the gate
Flows stable and clear
Watch for ice in shaded bends
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.
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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