Fishing Season: Year Around

South Platte River - CO

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

38

Royal Gorge Anglers's Tip of the Week

Flows are low, and are now below the historic winter average range. There's a lot of pressure on this section so be ready for technical fishing and practice good etiquette when it comes to fishing around other anglers.

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 4/8/24

Good hatches and equally good dry fly fishing. Nymphing is steady as well. Focus on BWO, Tricos, PMDs, and of course caddis. Tricos rule right now! With the low flows, stay focused on fishing the morning hours and give the fish a break with the warm water temps.

Techniques & Tips as of 4/8/24

Euro systems that get deep quickly, as well as standard western indicator nymph rigs. Long leader dry fly rigs.

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
Blue Wing Olive Parachute BWO 20
Sparkle Dun black 20
Juan's Slim Shady BWO 22
Ice Queen black 22
Indicator Parachute - Trico black 20
Bead Head Caddis Pupa Olive 22
Caddis Larva Tan 16
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:

BWOs, PMDs, tricos, caddis

Best Time to Fish:

Mornings

Best Stretch:

Springer Up

Best Access:

Co Rd 96, Lake George, CO