Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

South Platte - Above Spinney - Colorado

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges 11AM - 4PM 18-26 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
Blue Winged Olives Overcast days 18-22 RS2, Mercury Flashback Pheasant tail
February Midges 11AM - 4PM 18-26 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
Blue Winged Olives Overcast days 18-22 RS2, Mercury Flashback Pheasant tail
March Midges 11AM - 4PM 18-26 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
Blue Winged Olives Overcast days 18-22 RS2, Mercury Flashback Pheasant tail
April Midges 11AM - 4PM 18-26 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
Blue Winged Olives Overcast days 18-22 RS2, Mercury Flashback Pheasant tail
May Caddis Evening 14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X Caddis
Midges 11AM - 4PM 18-26 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
June Caddis Evening 14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X Caddis
Midges 11AM - 4PM 18-26 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
July PMDs Water temperature above 50F 14-18 Sparkle Dun, Adams Dry Fly
Terrestrials Sunny days 10-16 Chernobyl Ant, Foam Beetle
August Terrestrials Sunny days 10-16 Chernobyl Ant, Foam Beetle
Tricos Morning 18-24 Trico Spinner, Griffith's Gnat
September Terrestrials Sunny days 10-16 Chernobyl Ant, Foam Beetle
Midges 11AM - 4PM 18-26 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
October Midges 11AM - 4PM 18-26 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
Blue Winged Olives Overcast days 18-22 RS2, Mercury Flashback Pheasant tail
November Midges 11AM - 4PM 18-26 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
Blue Winged Olives Overcast days 18-22 RS2, Mercury Flashback Pheasant tail
December Midges 11AM - 4PM 18-26 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
Blue Winged Olives Overcast days 18-22 RS2, Mercury Flashback Pheasant tail

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The South Platte River, above Spinney, is teeming with large rainbow and cutthroat trout. Here, are some excellent fly fishing spots:
  • Spinney Mountain Reservoir: This high-altitude reservoir boasts 2500 acres of gold medal waters known for its trout and salmon.
  • Charlie Meyers State Wildlife Area: Also referred to as the “Dream Stream”, it offers a flawless combination of serene beauty and abundant wildlife. It’s famous for its fall-run rainbow trout.
  • Eleven Mile Canyon: Renowned for its large trout, this canyon is a fantastic spot for fly fishing enthusiasts. Its pristine waters and scenic views will not disappoint.
  • Deckers: With its slow-moving waters and abundant insect life, Deckers is a paradise for trout. Stocked with brown and rainbow trout, it’s ideal for beginners and experts alike.
  • Badger Basin / Corral Creek: This more remote area provides a tranquil fly fishing experience away from the crowd.

Best Access Points

The South Platte, specifically the area Above Spinney, is a long stretch full of prime fly fishing spots.

  1. Horseshoe Bend: This access point boasts long S curves providing lots of opportunity for diverse fish placement.
  2. Tomahawk SWA: Offering plentiful runs and riffles, this State Wildlife Area makes for diverse fly fishing.
  3. Badger Basin / Corral Creek : These areas provide a backcountry feel with its abundant wild fish stocked by Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
  4. Eleven Mile Canyon: Nestled in a canyon, this area offers a vast array of pockets where trout are prolific.
  5. Deckers/ Cheesman Canyon: Known for its large fish population and epic scenery, these are arguably the most famous fishing spots on the South Platte.

Pack your gear and start exploring these top access points in the South Platte for a memorable fly-fishing adventure.

Local Fish

  • Brown Trout – The Brown Trout is a classic favorite among local fly fishers. It is native to Europe and known for its great size, some reaching up to 44 pounds.
  • Rainbow Trout – These colorful fish are a popular choice for fishermen. They fight hard and are quick to rise to a dry fly, making them a challenging and rewarding catch.
  • Brook Trout – Smaller than some other species, the Brook Trout is nevertheless a fun catch. Their distinctive coloring and patterns make them easy to identify.
  • Yellow Perch – Yellow Perch offer some good light tackle action and are commonly found close to shore. They have a mild flavor and excellent eating quality.
  • Cutthroat Trout – These trout are named for the distinctive red coloration on the underside of their jaw. They are generally smaller and rarer than other types of trout.
  • Suckerfish – Suckerfish may not be the most glamorous catch, but they offer a good fight and are plentiful in the South Platte.
  • Pike – Pike are predatory fish, hunting smaller fish and frogs. They can grow to significant sizes, up to 55 pounds and 4.9 feet for the Northern Pike.
  • Mountain Whitefish – Mountain Whitefish are a common catch in the South Platte River. They’re a cold-water fish species that lives in many of the North American western streams.

About The River

The South Platte – Above Spinney is a treasure-trove of aquatic delights situated in the heart of Colorado. This section of the river, which flows from the mountains down a broad, sweeping valley, is home to a large population of hard-fighting rainbow and brown trout. The South Platte’s history is as rich and colorful as its surrounding landscapes. Long before it won the hearts of fishermen, it served as a crucial source of water for the region’s Native American residents and early settlers. The key highlights of its history include:
  • The river was once a major thoroughfare for fur traders in the early 19th century.
  • In the 1850s, it played a central role in the Colorado Gold Rush, as many prospectors settled near its banks in search of riches.
  • In the 20th century, it became a popular hub for water-based recreational activities, including fishing and water rafting.
Today, the South Platte – Above Spinney continues to charm anglers and adventurers alike with its rich fish life and serene beauty.
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