Colorado Early Spring Fly Fishing: Top Tips and Hotspots Near Denver

Time to wade into one of my favorite topics...Spring fly fishing right here in what is still the great state of Colorado (Yes, we're still great regardless of the continued gun bans, ridiculous legislation against hunters and the ongoing TDA drama, IYKYK).

But I digress...

There’s nothing like the crisp air, the sound of melting snow trickling into streams, and the thrill of hooking a feisty Brownie after a long winter.

So, let’s break down the top tips for early spring success and spotlight a few killer locations to get your line wet.

First off...What’s Happening Out There?

Early spring in Colorado—think late February through March—is a magical time on the water, but a terrible time on the roads...I70 am I right? The snow’s still melting, the days are getting longer, and the trout are waking up from their winter slumber. Water temps are chilly, usually in the high 30s to low 40s, so the fish are a bit sluggish, but hungry. This is peak pre-runoff season, meaning rivers are typically low and clear, giving you prime visibility and access before the big snowmelt turns everything into a chocolate milk mess.

The key to success? Focus on the bugs. Midges are the name of the game in early spring—they’ve been hatching all winter and are a trout staple. Look for clusters of midges buzzing over the water, especially on calm, overcast days. Blue-winged olives (BWOs) also start popping off as the water warms slightly, triggering some epic dry-fly action if you time it right. Nymphing, though, is your bread and butter this time of year—trout are still hugging the bottom, conserving energy in the low and slow pools.

Top Tips for Early Spring Success:

1. Go Small and Subtle: Trout aren’t chasing big meals yet. Stick to small flies—size 18-22 midges (think Zebra Midges or Black Beauties) and tiny BWO nymphs or emergers. Keep your tippet light (5X or 6X) to match the low, clear water.

2. Fish the Warmest Part of the Day: Early spring mornings can be frigid, and trout won’t move much until the sun’s been up a while. Aim for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., when water temps nudge up a degree or two and the fish get active.

3. Target Slow Water: Look for deep pools, eddies, and soft seams where trout can feed without burning energy. Avoid fast riffles—they’re too cold and chaotic for early season fish.

4. Nail Your Presentation: With clear water, trout can be spooky. Keep casts delicate, mend your line to avoid drag, and let those nymphs drift naturally. If you see a midge hatch, switch to a dry fly like a Griffith’s Gnat and watch the magic happen.

5. Layer Up and Stay Safe: Colorado weather’s a wild card in spring—sunny one minute, snowing the next. Dress in layers, pack a rain jacket, and wear waders. Rivers might be low, but they’re still cold and slick.

Now, let’s get to the good stuff—where to fish within an hour of Denver.

Ideal Locations Within an Hour or so of Denver:

1. South Platte River – Deckers
   Drive Time: About 45 minutes southwest of Denver via US-285.
   
   Why It’s Hot: The Deckers stretch of the South Platte is a tailwater fishery below Cheesman Reservoir, meaning consistent flows and cold, clear water year-round—perfect for early spring. It’s loaded with rainbow and brown trout, and the fish here aren’t too picky this time of year.
   
   Tips: Focus on the deeper runs and pools near the bridge or downstream toward Scraggy View Picnic Ground. Nymph with a two-fly rig—try a size 20 Pheasant Tail trailed by a size 22 RS2. If you see midges hatching, switch to a dry. Crowds can pick up on weekends, so hit it midweek if you can.
   
   Bonus: It’s a scenic escape from the city, with pine-covered hills and plenty of elk sightings.
   
   
2. Clear Creek – Golden to Idaho Springs
   Drive Time: 30-45 minutes west of Denver via I-70 or Hwy 6.
   
   Why It’s Hot: Clear Creek is a sleeper hit for quick-access fly fishing. It’s a freestone stream with tons of brown trout and a few rainbows, and the lower stretches near Golden fish well in early spring before runoff kicks in.
   
   Tips: Park at one of the pullouts along Hwy 6 west of Golden and work the slower pockets behind boulders. A size 18 Prince Nymph or a San Juan Worm works wonders here. Stay stealthy—the water’s gin-clear, and these fish spook easily. Higher up near Idaho Springs, you might even snag a cutthroat.
   
   Bonus: You’re minutes from Golden’s breweries for a necessary post-fish beer.
   
   
3. Bear Creek – Morrison to Evergreen
   Drive Time: 25-40 minutes southwest of Denver via CO-470 and Hwy 74.
   
   Why It’s Hot: Bear Creek is a small-stream gem that’s often overlooked. It’s packed with wild browns and a few brook trout, and the low flows in early spring make it wadable and fishable.
   
   Tips: Access it at Lair o’ the Bear Park or along Bear Creek Road toward Evergreen. Fish tight to the banks with a size 20 Parachute Adams or a small beadhead nymph like a Rainbow Warrior. Keep your casts short—this is tight, brushy water.
   
   Bonus: The trail at Lair o’ the Bear is perfect for a family hike if you’re bringing the whole crew.

Let's Wrap it Up...

Early spring fly fishing near Denver is all about timing, finesse, and picking the right spot. Deckers, Clear Creek, and Bear Creek are your go-to’s within an hour—each offers a shot at solid trout and that unbeatable Colorado vibe. So grab your rod, tie on a midge, and hit the water.

Got a monster early spring catch? Share it with us on our Social media (Joe on X or Joe on Instagram) or better yet...drop a comment here or on the podcast at Rumble or Youtube— we’d love to hear your stories.

Until next time, tight lines and fish on!