RIVER REPORT
Middle Fork, South Platte River | Below Montgomery Res
The Middle Fork of the South Platte River below Montgomery Reservoir offers a rich and rewarding fly fishing experience in a stunning high-altitude setting. This tailwater section benefits from consistent flows regulated by the reservoir, creating ideal conditions for trout to thrive. Anglers will find a mix of brown and rainbow trout in the cold, clear waters, along with deep pools and runs that make for excellent nymphing and dry fly action. Surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery and expansive meadows, this section of the river is both accessible and secluded, offering a peaceful escape with challenging fishing opportunities. The dynamic water structure and abundant insect life make the Middle Fork below Montgomery Reservoir a must-visit for serious anglers.
CONDITIONS
Weather & Flow Data Reported From OpenWeather and USGS
Recent Reports
Middle Fork of the South Platte River Below Montgomery Reservoir – April Fly Fishing Report: As of early April, the Middle Fork of the South Platte River below Montgomery Reservoir is transitioning into spring conditions. Recent reports indicate that this section remains frozen, with extremely low flows hindering fishing opportunities. Anticipated warmer temperatures and increased water releases from the reservoir may improve conditions in the coming weeks. Historically, as ice recedes and flows stabilize, anglers can expect hatches of midges and Blue-Winged Olives (BWOs) during warmer midday periods, providing opportunities for both nymphing and dry fly fishing. Effective nymph patterns include Pheasant Tails, Copper Johns, and RS2s in sizes 16–20. For dry fly enthusiasts, BWOs and midge patterns in sizes 18–22 can be productive during active hatches. Additionally, streamer fishing with patterns like Woolly Buggers and Sculpzillas can yield positive results, especially during overcast conditions. Employing light tippets (5x to 6x) and a stealthy approach is advisable due to the river’s clear water and wary trout. Focusing efforts during the warmest parts of the day, typically late morning to early afternoon, can enhance success rates. Anglers should monitor local conditions and weather forecasts to determine the optimal time to visit this section of the Middle Fork of the South Platte River. As spring progresses, fishing opportunities are expected to improve.
Water Flow Data
5 Day Outlook
BUGS
Middle Fork, South Platte River’s insect life provides a smorgasbord for hungry trout. AvidMax recommends these key fly patterns:
THE FISHERY
The Middle Fork of the South Platte River below Montgomery Reservoir provides anglers with a productive tailwater fishery, offering consistent flows and excellent trout fishing opportunities in the scenic high country of central Colorado.
Fish Species
The Middle Fork of the South Platte River below Montgomery Reservoir is home to wild brown, rainbow, and brook trout. Browns dominate this section, with trout ranging from 10-16 inches. The consistent cold water flow from the reservoir supports a healthy trout population, and larger fish are possible, especially during the fall when brown trout are more active as they prepare to spawn.
Unique Fishing Conditions
This section is a tailwater fishery with steady, cold flows that create excellent year-round fishing opportunities. The river offers a mix of riffles, runs, and deep pools, making it ideal for nymphing and dry-dropper setups. Summer and fall provide good hatches of caddis, blue-winged olives, and midges, with dry fly action being strong during these months. Nymphing with stonefly, caddis, and midge patterns (sizes 16-20) is highly productive throughout the year, especially in deeper pools and along seams.
Access and Regulations
Public access is available below Montgomery Reservoir, with several trailheads and parking areas providing easy entry points to the river. While there are no special regulations, anglers are encouraged to practice catch-and-release to maintain the health of the fishery. Seasonal flow fluctuations from the reservoir can affect fishing conditions, especially during the spring runoff and fall drawdowns, so checking water levels before heading out is recommended for optimal fishing conditions.
TACTICS
AvidMax encourages anglers to explore their full repertoire on the Middle Fork of the South Platte River:
Nymphing
Nymphing allows anglers to target trout feeding below the surface, with or without an indicator, making it an effective technique for covering deep runs and slow pools where fish are actively feeding on subsurface insects.
Dry Fly Fishing
Fishing with dry flies provides the ultimate surface experience, imitating adult insects and offering exciting visual strikes, particularly during hatches when trout are feeding on the water’s surface.
Streamer Fishing
Using streamers mimics baitfish and other larger prey, offering an aggressive approach that can entice bigger, predatory trout, especially when fishing deeper water or fast-moving currents.
SEASONS
Each season on the Middle Fork of the South Platte River brings unique joys and challenges for AvidMax anglers:
Spring
Spring runoff can lead to high flows, but trout can still be caught by nymphing with stoneflies and baetis patterns in slower pools and along the banks. Focus on eddies and calm water where fish hold during runoff.
Summer
Summer provides excellent dry fly action with caddis, PMDs, and terrestrials like ants and hoppers. Early morning and late evening are the best times to fish, especially in riffles and pocket water.
Fall
Fall is prime for targeting brown trout during their pre-spawn period, with streamers and egg patterns being particularly effective. Focus on deeper pools and runs near structure where large trout hold.
Winter
Winter fishing is slower, but small midges and baetis nymphs fished deep in slower, more stable pools are productive. Fish during the warmest part of the day when trout are more likely to feed.
REMEMBER
The Middle Fork of the South Platte River below Montgomery Reservoir offers anglers a productive tailwater fishery with consistent flows and healthy trout populations, but its high-elevation setting and fluctuating conditions require careful preparation and responsible fishing.
Water Conditions
As a tailwater, flows are generally consistent, but releases from Montgomery Reservoir can affect water levels. Always check the current flow conditions before heading out, especially during spring runoff or after rain.
Regulations
Certain sections of this river may have catch-and-release requirements and restrictions on artificial flies and lures only. Be sure to familiarize yourself with local regulations to protect this fishery and ensure compliance.
Safety
Wading can be challenging due to the rocky riverbed and fast currents, especially after water releases. Wear proper wading boots with good traction and be cautious in deeper pools or swifter water, particularly in colder, high-altitude conditions.
COMMENTS
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