South Platte River
FishableColorado
Current Conditions
The South Platte River is running at 83 CFS — fishable but higher than ideal. Nymph rigs will outfish dries today. Streamers may produce.
Last updated: Mar 30, 2026, 2:45 AM from USGS gauge 06701900 (South Platte at Deckers)
7-Day Flow Trend
Flow thresholds: Optimal 100–250 CFS | Fishable to 500 CFS | Marginal to 800 CFS
About the South Platte River
Colorado's Front Range tailwater system offers multiple Gold Medal sections within an hour of Denver. From Cheesman Canyon to Deckers to Eleven Mile, the South Platte is known for technical fishing with selective trout in clear water.
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Midge Griffith's Gnat #20-24 | ||||||||||||
Blue-Winged Olive BWO Parachute #18-22 | ||||||||||||
Pale Morning Dun PMD Sparkle Dun #16 | ||||||||||||
Caddis Elk Hair Caddis #16 | ||||||||||||
Trico Trico Spinner #20-22 |
Active Hatches — March
Patterns: Griffith's Gnat #20-24, Zebra Midge #20-22, Top Secret Midge #20
Patterns: BWO Parachute #18-22, RS2 #20, Sparkle Dun #20
River Sections
Cheesman Canyon
wade access147 CFS
Iconic Gold Medal canyon with trophy trout. Hike-in access only. Artificial flies and lures, catch-and-release.
Deckers
wade access83 CFS
Accessible Gold Medal water popular with Front Range anglers. Excellent year-round fishing.
Guides on the South Platte River(22)
These fishing guides list the South Platte River as one of their home waters.
Angler’s All
Littleton, Colorado
Angler’s Covey
Colorado Springs, Colorado
ArkAnglers
Salida, Buena Vista and Pueblo, Colorado
Blue River Anglers
Frisco, Colorado
Breckenridge Outfitters
Breckenridge, Colorado
Colorado Fly Fishing Adventures
Pine, Colorado
Fly Fishing Services
Littleton, Colorado
Mile High Angler
Denver, Colorado
Mountain Angler
Breckenridge, Colorado
North Fork Ranch Guide Service
Colorado
Royal Gorge Anglers
Canon City, Colorado
South Platte Outfitters
Deckers, Colorado
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to fish the South Platte River?+
The South Platte River fishes well from spring through fall. Peak dry fly season is typically June through September. The best hatches occur during summer months with PMDs and caddis. Fall brings excellent streamer fishing and fewer crowds.
What flies work on the South Platte River in March?+
In March, the South Platte River sees Midge, Blue-Winged Olive activity. Top patterns include Griffith's Gnat #20-24, BWO Parachute #18-22. Always carry a selection of nymphs as well.
How many fishing guides operate on the South Platte River?+
Outguided lists 22 fishing guides who operate on the South Platte River. These guides offer local knowledge of hatches, access points, and current conditions that can significantly improve your experience.
What is the current flow on the South Platte River?+
The South Platte River's flow data is updated every 30 minutes from USGS gauge stations. Check the top of this page for current CFS readings, fishability status, and a 7-day flow trend chart. Optimal fishing flows are 100–250 CFS.
What fish species are in the South Platte River?+
The South Platte River primarily holds wild brown trout and rainbow trout. Fish sizes vary by section, with tailwater reaches typically holding larger fish.
Quick Conditions
Fishability Thresholds
USGS Gauges
South Platte at Deckers
Station #06701900
South Platte near Lake George
Station #06700000