North Platte River
CO
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River
About North Platte River
The North Platte River, a legendary western destination, offers exceptional wading opportunities through its 4.5-mile Wild Trout and Gold Medal section in Northgate Canyon, Colorado. This freestone river flows from the Routt National Forest towards the Wyoming border, providing excellent habitat for brown trout and cutthroat-rainbow hybrids. Anglers will encounter significant insect activity, with key hatches including Blue Wing Olives, Caddis, Midges, Stoneflies, and Western Green Drakes. The North Platte is known for trout that readily attack larger fly patterns, so consider presenting attractor nymphs and dry-dropper rigs with patterns like Stimulators and oversized Caddis imitations. Access is available from Walden via Highway 125, with parking near the Northgate Canyon entrance, and further opportunities north at 6-Mile Gap on the Wyoming side. A 9-foot 5-weight fly rod with floating line is ideal for both dry fly and nymph fishing.
Access
Seasons
Terrain
Water
Fish Species
Rainbow Trout
Cutthroat
Fishing Styles
undefined USGS Water Conditions
Water conditions for the last 7 days. You can gain insights to fishing activity based on these conditions, like water temperature and flow.
Methods
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Wade Friendly
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Float Friendly
Land Ownership
Public Forest Service
Trip Planning
Best fishing typically occurs during spring and summer. Check water conditions before heading out.
For more insight on the conditions, including hatches and water temperatures, check out the Hatch Forecast.