Deckers, Colorado

Best Flies For South Platte River

Updated Apr 24, 2026, 8:12 AM MDT

Fish the slow seams with a shallow, technical nymph rig first, then adjust toward emergers or a small dry only if you see steady noses.

Current Conditions
  • Flow: Moderate spring flows usually keep the Deckers water wadeable while still giving fish cover.
  • Water Temperature: Low-fifties water is enough for consistent feeding, but not enough to make fish reckless.
  • Weather: Overcast gives you more flexibility. Bright afternoons usually make the river more technical.
  • Overall Rating: 7/10
Today's Read

South Platte River is fishing around midges and blue-winged olives. Start with the patterns below and adjust only after fish show you something different.

Best Flies Right Now
  • Top Secret Midge, size 20-24, nymph
  • RS2 olive or gray, size 20-22, emerger
  • BWO Barr Emerger, size 18-20, nymph
  • Chocolate Foam Wing Emerger, size 20-22, emerger
  • Parachute Adams, size 20-22, dry
What They Match
  • Midges, size 20-24, all day with strongest windows early and late
  • Blue-winged olives, size 18-22, late morning through afternoon
  • Caddis prep and pupa activity, size 14-16, sporadic warm afternoons
How To Fish These Flies
  • Keep the rig shallow enough to drift clean through the softer seam instead of hanging in every slot.
  • Focus on slower shelves, tailout lips, and the soft cushion beside faster current rather than the heaviest riffle water.
  • If fish start showing on top, cut back to one dry and one emerger or a single dry. Long, drag-free drifts matter more than covering more water.