Fishing Season: Year Around

South Platte River - CO

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

38

Royal Gorge Anglers's Tip of the Week

Bigger bugs with the bigger release.

Directions open in app

Map of South Platte River

Water Flow Data

Tidal Conditions

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

Royal Gorge Anglers
Angler's Covey
Sunrise Anglers

5-Day Outlook as of 5/27/26

With the draining of Antero, flows will be moved through to Cheeseman Reservoir...which will mean higher flows through all of the upper sections for some time. This can mean really strong fishing, but different tactics.

Techniques & Tips as of 5/27/26

Dry/ Dropper and nymphing activity will be your best technique. Mix in some small streamer stripping!

Local Species Available Year Around

  • Fish Icon

    Rainbow Trout; Cutthroat Trout; Brown Trout; Cuttbows

Royal Gorge Anglers's Recommended Fly Patterns

"Must-have" fly fishing patterns in descending order of importance:

Name: Colors: Size(s):
RS2 Black 20, 22
Pale Morning Dun Thorax Dun 22
Travis Hi-Vis BWO Para Emerger BWO 20
Sparkle Dun black 20
Juan's Slim Shady BWO 22
Ice Queen black 22
Indicator Parachute - Trico black 20
Indicator Spinner - Trico black 22
Copper John black 20
Rainbow Warrior Pearl 22

RS2

A must have emerger fly pattern for any trout fisherman.

2.49

Item #067T

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Royal Gorge Anglers's Recommended Gear

Description: About South Platte River

Elevenmile Canyon starts just below Elevenmile Reservoir. Although the reservoir is situated on the open/ windy plateau of South Park, Elevenmile Canyon a completely different scenario all together with pine and fir trees, tremendous rock outcroppings, and gorgeous pools. The installation of changes in DOW regulations since 2001 have improved and preserved this fishery. Elevenmile Canyon is now artificial flies and lures only, and catch and release, for the four miles below the dam (to Springer Gulch). This fishery proves to be one of the most consistent tailwater fisheries in the state day in and day out.

Nearest Airport:

Colorado Springs

Hatches:

Tricos, BWOs, Caddis....Worms, Sowbugs and Scuds with the higher flows.

Best Time to Fish:

Mornings

Best Stretch:

Springer Up

Best Access:

Co Rd 96, Lake George, CO