Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

South Platte - Eleven Mile Canyon - 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 Afternoon 18-24 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
Winter Stoneflies Afternoon 16-20 Tunghead Stonefly, Rubberlegs Stonefly
February Midges Afternoon 18-24 Chocolate Thunder, Miracle Midge
Winter Stoneflies Afternoon 16-20 Hot Wire Prince, Copper John
March Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Afternoon 18-22 RS2, Pheasant Tail Nymph
April Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Afternoon 18-22 Juju Baetis, Mercury Baetis
Caddis Afternoon 14-18 Holy Grail Caddis, Elk Hair Caddis
May Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Afternoon 18-22 Barr's BWO Emerger, Foam Wing RS2
Caddis Afternoon 14-18 E/C Caddis, Graphic Caddis
June Pale Morning Dun (PMD) Morning/Evening 16-18 PMD Sparkle Dun, PMD Thorax
Caddis Afternoon 14-16 X-Caddis, Buckskin Caddis
July Pale Morning Dun (PMD) Morning/Evening 16-18 Biot PMD, PMD Halfback
Caddis Afternoon 14-16 Tan CDC Caddis, Elk Hair Caddis
August Trico Morning 20-24 PMD Loop Wing Emerger, Trico Spinner
Caddis Afternoon 14-16 Henryville Special, Caddis Emerger
September Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Afternoon 18-22 Sparkle Dun BWO, Soft Hackle BWO
Trico Morning 20-24 Hi-Vis Trico Spinner, Trico Dun
October Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Afternoon 18-22 Quill Body BWO, Baetis Nymph
Midges Afternoon 18-24 Mercury Midge, UV Midge
November Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Afternoon 18-22 Micro Mayfly, Blue Wing Olive
Midges Afternoon 18-24 Griffith's Gnat, Midge Pupa
December Midges Afternoon 18-24 Disco Midge, Miracle Midge
Winter Stoneflies Afternoon 16-20 Two Bit Stone, Prince Nymph

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 at Eleven Mile Canyon in Colorado offers a wide range of options for fly fishing enthusiasts. Some of the best spots to consider are:

  • Eleven Mile Canyon Dam: This is a great starting point. Large trout often congregate in the deep pools just below the dam.
  • Lazy EWE Campground: Known for its nature setting, the fish-filled water adjacent to this campground makes it a prime spot for fishing.
  • Riverside Site 11: Offering calm and slow-moving water, these ideal conditions make it easy for spotting and fishing for trout.
  • North Fork Reservoir: Famed for its clear waters that host rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout, this reservoir offers exciting fly fishing opportunities.
  • The Dream Stream: Located between Eleven Mile Reservoir and Spinney Mountain Reservoir, this stretch is rich in large trout and is quite popular among anglers.

Best Access Points

The South Platte River in Eleven Mile Canyon is a popular fly fishing destination renowned for its healthy trout populations. Here are the top access points:

  • Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area: An excellent spot for year-round fishing with easy access from the trailhead.
  • Eleven Mile State Park: Providing fantastic shoreline access, it’s a wonderful position for sight anglers.
  • Bridge crossing at Mile 6: A less crowded point with potential for secluded fishing.
  • Witchers Cove: A deep pool area, excellent for wet fly techniques.
  • Cross Creek: Below the Cross Creek Reservoir, this spot often yields larger fish.

Please respect private property rights while accessing these areas and always maintain responsible fishing principles such as ‘Catch and Release’.

Local Fish

  • Brown Trout: Brown Trout are a prominent species in Eleven Mile Canyon and are attractive targets due to their impressive size and fighting spirit. They are often found in deeper pools and moving water.
  • Rainbow Trout: These are another common species in the South Platte river system with vibrant coloration. Rainbow Trout are more likely to be in faster, shallower waters.
  • Cutthroat Trout: Cutthroat Trout are a favorite for fly fishermen due to their striking red gills slits. They are most common in quieter, deeper waters.
  • Brook Trout: Named for the small streams they inhabit, Brook Trout are prevalent in Eleven Mile Canyon. They are typically found in cooler, high-altitude sections of the river.
  • Mountain Whitefish: A species native to Colorado, Mountain Whitefish are prevalent in Eleven Mile Canyon. Despite their smaller size, they are a challenging catch due to their wary nature.
  • Arctic Grayling: Though less common, Arctic Grayling can be found in parts of South Platte. Their large dorsal fins and attractive coloring make them a prized catch.
  • Tiger Trout: Tiger Trout are a hybrid of Brown Trout and Brook Trout. They are prized for their distinctive markings, aggressive nature, and the challenge they present to anglers.
  • Greenback Cutthroat Trout: These are Colorado’s state fish and a threatened species. They are a rare and incredibly satisfying catch for any angler.

About The River

Venture into the spectacularly scenic South Platte – Eleven Mile Canyon, a hidden gem in the heart of Colorado. Historically, this was a cherished hunting ground for the Ute Indians, sustained by the abundant wildlife provided by the flowing South Platte river.

In the 1800s, the area took on a very different purpose with the construction of a railroad, facilitating gold and silver mining expeditions. Now, it proudly serves as a sanctuary for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

The South Platte – Eleven Mile Canyon offers:

  • World-class fishing opportunities, boasting a thriving population of trout.
  • A multitude of scenic hiking trails encompassing various degrees of difficulty.
  • Ancient, yet well preserved Ute rock art that takes you on a journey back in time.
  • Remarkably clear night skies for stargazers to observe constellations with breathtaking clarity.

Immerse yourself, and uncover the diverse history and natural wonders offered by this Colorado state treasure.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

Recent Articles

Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons
Gear ReviewsFly Fishing

Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons

April 20, 2024

Hip Waders or Chest Waders? Choosing the right gear for fly fishing can make all the difference in…

Read More
Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions
Fly TyingFly Fishing

Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions

April 18, 2024

Welcome to fly tying: How to tie a Pheasant Tail Nymph! If you’re new here or a seasoned…

Read More

Fly Tying Articles

Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions

April 18, 2024