South Platte - Cheesman Canyon
CO
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Tailwater
About South Platte - Cheesman Canyon
South Platte - Cheeseman Canyon is a highly technical, gold medal tailwater fishery renowned for its exceptionally educated brown and rainbow trout, typically ranging from 12 to 18 inches. Access requires a 30-minute hike along the Gill Trail, which winds through steep granite canyon walls, offering stunning scenery. Anglers will find success primarily nymphing with very small flies, sizes #22 and smaller, as the trout are easily spooked by larger presentations. Key insect activity includes midges and sporadic Blue Wing Olives, making midge nymphs, emergers, and dries particularly effective. While the canyon can get crowded, hiking further upstream often reveals less pressured water, and the smart trout, though picky, are not overly spooky, allowing for careful presentations.
Access
Seasons
Terrain
Water
Fish Species
Brown Trout
Rainbow Trout
Regulations
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Fly Fishing Only: This water is restricted to fly fishing gear. No spinning or bait-casting equipment permitted.
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Catch & Release: All fish must be immediately released. Handle with care using barbless hooks.
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.
Data sourced from the USGS National Water Information System
Methods
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Wade Only
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Wade Friendly
Land Ownership
Public Forest Service
Private No Access
Regulations
•
Fly Fishing Only: This water is restricted to fly fishing gear. No spinning or bait-casting equipment permitted.
•
Catch & Release: All fish must be immediately released. Handle with care using barbless hooks.
Trip Planning
Best fishing typically occurs during winter and year round. Check water conditions before heading out.
See what insects are emerging on South Platte - Cheesman Canyon's hatch forecast — including active hatches, water temperatures, and which patterns to have in your box this month.