South Platte River Fly Fishing, Colorado

With a majority of rivers and waterways to fish in the state of Colorado, knowing some of the better places to hit is crucial. One of the top areas to throw your lure or fly in the water is on one of the multiple rivers in Summit County and those waters to the south. For tough, but excellent fishing options, the South Platte River southwest of Denver is a top notch area that demands skill. If any trout in Colorado were to be referred to as "smart," the fish of the South Platte from Cheesman Reservoir down to Waterton Canyon would swim to the head of the class. The anglers of Denver and other Front Range communities who fish this river regularly have taught these fish well and the fish have the lip scars to prove it. Obviously, the idea is to catch and release as many fish as possible, but regardless of the outcome the scenery alone is worth the trip.

The oxbow sections of the Platte flow through a high plain area known as South Park. Over 50 miles of public access to this Gold Medal water are well marked. Weather can be an issue in this area, so dress for wind and be on the lookout for lightning. The South Platte gets most of its water from hundreds of small streams and springs in South Park as they meander across willow and wind-swept flats to the edge of the Front Range. Wading is no problem in the river as the bottom is not slick and most of it consists of fine gravel and smaller stones. Chest waders definitely would come in handy just for the ease and comfort of moving in the water.

The river is home to mostly brown trout, plus Snake River cutthroats, rainbow and brooks. Because of its close proximity to the major population centers of the state, the South Platte receives intense fishing pressure – mainly on the weekends. And, it isn't unusual to wait in line to fish some favorite watering holes.