RIVER REPORT
South Fork South Platte River | Below Antero
The South Fork of the South Platte River below Antero Reservoir is a renowned tailwater fishery offering anglers excellent fly fishing opportunities. The river’s cold, clear waters are rich with nutrients, supporting a healthy population of large brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout. This section of the river features a mix of riffles, deep runs, and pools, providing a variety of fishing conditions and making it a popular destination for both novice and seasoned anglers. The surrounding high-desert landscape, with its wide-open vistas and distant mountain views, creates a peaceful and scenic backdrop. Known for its productive waters and consistent flows, the South Fork of the South Platte below Antero is a prized spot for those seeking quality trout fishing in Colorado.
CONDITIONS
Weather & Flow Data Reported From OpenWeather and USGS
Recent Reports
South Fork of the South Platte River Below Antero Reservoir – April Fly Fishing Report: As of early April, the South Fork of the South Platte River below Antero Reservoir is exhibiting typical spring conditions with low and clear flows. Anglers can anticipate 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. Overall, the South Fork of the South Platte River below Antero Reservoir offers rewarding opportunities for anglers this April.
Water Flow Data
5 Day Outlook
BUGS
South Fork South Platte River’s insect life provides a smorgasbord for hungry trout. AvidMax recommends these key fly patterns:
THE FISHERY
The South Fork of the South Platte River below Antero Reservoir provides anglers with a productive tailwater fishery, featuring consistent flows and abundant trout in the scenic, wide-open landscape of South Park.
Fish Species
The South Fork of the South Platte River below Antero Reservoir is home to populations of brown and rainbow trout, with browns being the dominant species. Trout in this section generally range from 12-18 inches, but the presence of large fish from Antero Reservoir, especially during the fall spawning season, provides anglers with the opportunity to catch trophy-sized fish.
Unique Fishing Conditions
As a tailwater fishery, the South Fork below Antero benefits from cold, consistent flows throughout much of the year, offering excellent fishing conditions. The river features a mix of deep pools, riffles, and undercut banks. Summer and fall are the prime seasons for dry fly fishing, with hatches of caddis, blue-winged olives, and midges providing great surface action. Nymphing with small mayfly, stonefly, and midge patterns (sizes 16-22) is effective throughout the year, particularly in deeper runs and seams.
Access and Regulations
Access to the South Fork below Antero is good, with public lands and access points near Highway 24. This section of the river is part of Colorado’s Gold Medal Waters, meaning it is managed for trophy trout. Anglers are required to use artificial flies and lures only, and catch-and-release is encouraged to help maintain the quality of the fishery. Water flows can fluctuate due to releases from Antero Reservoir, so checking flow conditions before fishing is advisable.
TACTICS
AvidMax encourages anglers to explore their full repertoire on the South 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 South Fork of the South Platte River brings unique joys and challenges for AvidMax anglers:
Spring
Spring brings high water flows as snowmelt increases, making nymphing with stoneflies, baetis, and San Juan worms productive. Focus on the edges of faster water and deeper runs where fish seek refuge.
Summer
Summer offers excellent dry fly fishing with consistent hatches of caddis, PMDs, and terrestrials like hoppers and ants. Early mornings and late evenings provide the best action as water temperatures rise during the day.
Fall
Fall is a prime time for targeting large brown trout as they move upstream to spawn. Streamers and egg patterns are effective near deep pools and structure where these aggressive fish hold.
Winter
Winter fishing requires patience, with trout holding in slower, deeper water. Small midges and baetis nymphs fished under an indicator are the go-to patterns for cold weather conditions.
REMEMBER
The South Fork of the South Platte River below Antero Reservoir offers excellent tailwater fishing, with steady flows and large, healthy trout. However, its sensitive ecosystem and fluctuating water conditions require anglers to practice responsible fishing to protect this prime fishery.
Water Conditions
Water releases from Antero Reservoir regulate the flow, so check current levels before heading out. Sudden changes in water levels can affect fishing success and wading safety, especially during spring and summer.
Regulations
This stretch may be governed by strict catch-and-release rules and limits on artificial flies and lures. Be sure to review the local regulations to help preserve the trout population and ensure a sustainable fishery.
Safety
The tailwater section often has fast-moving currents, and the rocky riverbed can make wading tricky. Wear proper wading boots with good traction, and be cautious while crossing or navigating deeper pools, particularly after water releases from the reservoir.
COMMENTS
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