South Platte River: Deckers

Weekly Report

South Platte flows at Deckers are holding steady at 95 cfs and water clarity is high. Even on warmer days, water temps are cold and only reaching a high of 40 degrees during the afternoon. Even as we move past this cold front, keep this in mind and fish the warmest hours of the day when trout are most active. Trout are favoring their winter lies (deep pools, soft runs, slack water etc.) and the deepest portion of the water column, making a heavy nymph rig the ideal setup. As air temps rise into the 40s and 50s over the next few days, we should observe more hatch activity and find trout feeding closer to the surface in soft water and feasting on pupa in transitions, tailouts and along seams. Small midge larva patterns, size #18 searcher/attractor patterns and eggs are productive lead patterns when nymphing. Rainbow Warriors and eggs were particularly hot this week. If trout are turned off by a larger lead pattern, switch to a midge larva. Patterns such as Bling Midges, Miracle Nymphs, Blood Midges and tube midges are always a safe bet this time of year. Midge pupa and baetis emerger patterns have been lights out in the trailer position. Think olive RS2s, WD-40s, Manhattan Midges and Mercury Black Beauties. Hatch activity is expected to improve and will offer dry fly opportunities during the late morning and afternoon. Sections that receive direct sunlight will produce the best hatches. Griffiths Gnats and Parachute Adams will get attention from trout looking up at the surface. Warmer weather will also increase angling pressure, so don’t expect to have the river to yourself. Explore the sections downstream of Deckers and look for sections with pronounced pools and runs.

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