Gearing up for a fishing escapade on the South Platte River? Hold on to your hats, because you’re about to dive into the most comprehensive guide on how to fly fish this iconic Colorado waterway. We’re talking river biography, best fishing spots, tackle guidance, fly selection, pro techniques, rigging how-tos, local laws, and more. With our help, you’ll be landing rainbow trout like a seasoned pro in no time.
The South Platte River: A Fisherman’s Tale
Winding its way from the Colorado Rockies to its confluence with the North Platte River in Nebraska, the South Platte is a mecca for fly fishing. The river’s storied reputation boasts diverse landscapes, from mountainous terrain to vast plains, and an impressive variety of trout species including Brown, Rainbow, Cutthroat, and Brook.
Best time to fish? Spring to early summer (April-June) and fall (September-November) are prime periods. Expect a plethora of bugs and active fish, but remember, every season has its charm and secrets.
Perfect Places for Casting Away
| Spot Name | Directions | Local Guide Shop |
|---|---|---|
| Deckers | Take Hwy 67 from Sedalia | Flies and Lies |
| Cheesman Canyon | Located near Deckers, off Hwy 126 | Angler’s Covey |
| Eleven Mile Canyon | Off Hwy 24, near Lake George | The Peak Fly Shop |
| Dream Stream | Near Hartsel, off Hwy 24 | South Platte Fly Shop |
| Badger Basin | Near Lake George, off Hwy 24 | Blue Quill Angler |
For Solitude Seekers: Eleven Mile Canyon
This is your sanctuary. Eleven Mile Canyon, despite its stunning beauty and plentiful fish, is often overlooked by crowds due to its $7 entry fee. Yeah, it’s not free, but the solitude and scenic splendor are worth every penny.
For Social Fishers: Deckers
If you don’t mind a bit of company, Deckers is your go-to spot. Its accessibility and ample trout population make it popular among anglers, resulting in a bustling fishing community.
Gear Up Right: Rod and Reel Selection
Go with a 9ft, 4-6wt rod for versatility. Reel-wise, opt for a mid-arbor disc drag reel. Load it up with a weight-forward floating line to match your rod weight, and you’re good to go.
Fly Selection: Your Secret Weapon
| Season | Fly Name | Favorite Color | Hook Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | Midge Larva | Red | #20 |
| Winter | Black Beauty | Black | #22 |
| Winter | Mercury Baetis | Olive | #20 |
| Spring | Blue-winged Olive | Olive | #18 |
| Spring | RS2 | Gray | #20 |
| Spring | Buckskin | Tan | #18 |
| Summer | Elk Hair Caddis | Tan | #16 |
| Summer | PMD Sparkle Dun | Yellow | #16 |
| Summer | San Juan Worm | Red | #14 |
| Fall | Trico Spinner | Black | #20 |
| Fall | Hopper | Brown | #10 |
| Fall | Egg Pattern | Orange | #16 |
How to Fly Fish the South Platte: 3 Pro Techniques
- Nymphing: Get ready to go deep. Start with a 9-foot, 5X leader and attach 1-2 BB split shots 8-16 inches above your fly.
- Dry Fly Fishing: Wait for the hatch and go for a 9-foot, 5X-6X leader. Keep your fly dry and keep a keen eye on your target.
- Streamer Fishing: Try an intermediate sinking line with a short, stout leader. Cast upstream and across, then strip the fly back towards you in short, abrupt pulls.
Rigging Up Right
Begin with a 9-foot 5X leader. Add tippet size to match the flies you are using, but remember, the smaller the fly, the finer the tippet. If you’re nymphing, attach 1 or 2 BB split shots 8-16 inches above your fly. If you’re dry fly fishing, no weights are needed. Depth? Go 1-2 feet below the surface for nymphs and keep dry flies on the surface.
Follow the Law: Local Regulations
Be respectful, keep an eye out for private property, and practice catch and release to maintain the river’s trout population. A valid Colorado fishing license is required, and daily catch limits apply.
Conclusion
There you have it, your ultimate guide on how to fly fish the South Platte River. Armed with these tips, you’re ready to tackle this angling mecca, respecting the ecosystem while honing your craft. Remember, the river is as much about the journey as it is about the catch.
