Daily Fly Fishing Report for South Platte River at Deckers, Colorado (August 2, 2024)
Current Conditions:
EXACT and CURRENT flows: https://waterdata.usgs.gov/monitoring-location/06701900/#parameterCode=00065&period=P7D&showMedian=false
- Flow Rate: 258 CFS (Cubic Feet per Second)
- Weather: Temperatures are in the mid-80s°F with mild wind (7-15 mph). Overcast conditions expected throughout the day.
Hatches and Fly Recommendations:
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Morning:
- Midges: Size #18-#24, black, olive, and cream patterns like WD-40 and Zebra Midge.
- Tricos: Size #20-#24, Trico Spinner and Trico Dun patterns are effective.
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Afternoon:
- Caddis: Size #14-#18, Elk Hair Caddis and X-Caddis.
- Blue Wing Olives (BWO): Size #18-#22, RS2 and Parachute Adams.
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All Day:
- Terrestrials: Size #14-#20, patterns like Chernobyl Ant and Parachute Hopper.
- Nymphs: Standard producers. Larger flies: Worms, cranefly larva, scuds. Small stuff: Midges, PMD nymphs, trico emergers, sunk tricos
Techniques and Tips:
- Nymphing: Effective throughout the day with smaller flies (Size #18-#22). Use fluorocarbon tippet in 5X and 6X for best results. Employ split shots or tungsten bead head nymphs to get down deep, especially in deeper pools and riffles.
- Dry Fly Fishing: Best during hatch periods. With the current overcast conditions, expect some dry fly action later in the day. Focus on imitating midges and pmd hatches. Terrestrials are always good this time of year.
- Streamers and Leeches: Olive and brown mini leeches are highly effective, especially when nymphs are not producing.
Best Spots:
- Deckers Chute: Accessible with a short hike, offering good opportunities for brown and rainbow trout.
- Scraggy View Picnic Ground: Features a long fishing dock and a scenic picnic area, ideal for a full day of fishing.
- Bridge Crossing: Located just upstream of Deckers, with plenty of fish in deeper waters.
- Willow Bend: Accessible via the Gill Trail, providing excellent rock structures for targeting large trout.
Local Insights:
- Water Temperature: Avoid fishing if the water temperature exceeds 70°F to prevent stressing the fish.
- Fishing Pressure: Deckers can get crowded, especially on weekends. Early morning or late evening trips might offer a more solitary experience.
- Conservation: Practice catch and release to help maintain the fish population and preserve the river ecosystem.