RIVER REPORT
South Platte River | Eleven Mile Canyon
The South Platte River at Eleven Mile Canyon is a stunning and highly sought-after fly fishing location, offering both beauty and excellent trout fishing. Nestled in a narrow, winding canyon below Eleven Mile Reservoir, this tailwater section boasts clear, cold water that supports healthy populations of brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout. The river flows through a breathtaking landscape of towering granite cliffs and dense pine forests, creating a peaceful and scenic environment for anglers. With its mix of riffles, runs, and deep pools, Eleven Mile Canyon provides diverse fishing conditions that appeal to both novice and experienced anglers. The combination of its accessibility, serene surroundings, and productive waters make Eleven Mile Canyon a favorite destination for fly fishing in Colorado.
CONDITIONS
Weather & Flow Data Reported From OpenWeather and USGS
Recent Reports
South Platte River – Eleven Mile Canyon – April 2025 Fly Fishing Report: As of late March 2025, the South Platte River in Eleven Mile Canyon is exhibiting favorable early spring conditions. Flows are consistent, with current rates around 89 cubic feet per second (CFS), aligning with seasonal averages. These stable flows contribute to clear water conditions, offering excellent sight-fishing opportunities. Anglers can anticipate hatches of midges and Blue-Winged Olives (BWOs) during warmer midday periods. Effective nymph patterns include Foam Wing RS2s, Chocolate Thunders, and Zebra Midges in sizes 18–24. For dry fly enthusiasts, patterns like Parachute Adams and Blue-Winged Olive imitations in similar sizes can be productive during active hatches. Additionally, small streamers such as Woolly Buggers and Sculpzillas may yield positive results, especially during overcast conditions. The river’s clarity necessitates a stealthy approach and precise presentations. Employing light tippets (5x to 6x) is advisable due to the technical nature of the fishery. Focusing efforts during the warmest parts of the day, typically late morning to early afternoon, can enhance success rates. Anglers should also be mindful of spawning activity during this period and avoid disturbing fish on redds to support the health of the fishery. Overall, Eleven Mile Canyon offers rewarding opportunities for anglers this April, particularly for those who adapt to the technical challenges presented by early spring conditions.
Water Flow Data
5 Day Outlook
BUGS
The South Platte River’s insect life provides a smorgasbord for hungry trout. AvidMax recommends these key fly patterns:
THE FISHERY
The South Platte River at Eleven Mile Canyon offers anglers a scenic and productive tailwater fishery, with clear, cold waters and plentiful trout surrounded by towering granite cliffs and serene mountain landscapes.
Fish Species
Eleven Mile Canyon is home to healthy populations of wild brown and rainbow trout, with fish typically ranging from 12-18 inches, though larger trout are possible. The consistent water flows and cold temperatures from Eleven Mile Reservoir provide ideal habitat for these trout, making this section popular for anglers targeting quality fish.
Unique Fishing Conditions
Eleven Mile Canyon offers classic tailwater fishing, with cold, clear water flowing year-round. The river features a mix of deep pools, fast riffles, and pocket water, providing diverse fishing opportunities. Dry fly fishing is particularly good in the summer and early fall, with hatches of blue-winged olives, caddis, and tricos. Nymphing with small midges, baetis, and caddis patterns (sizes 16-22) is effective throughout the year, especially in the deeper pools and seams. Streamers can also be productive in the fall, especially for targeting larger brown trout.
Access and Regulations
Access to Eleven Mile Canyon is excellent, with multiple entry points along the canyon road, which runs parallel to the river. This section is part of Colorado’s Gold Medal Waters, meaning artificial flies and lures only, with catch-and-release encouraged to preserve the wild trout population. Seasonal flow variations due to releases from Eleven Mile Reservoir can impact fishing conditions, so it’s important to check flow levels before planning a trip for optimal fishing.
TACTICS
AvidMax encourages anglers to explore their full repertoire on 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 Platte River brings unique joys and challenges for AvidMax anglers:
Spring
Spring offers excellent nymphing with baetis and stonefly patterns, as snowmelt runoff is minimal due to the dam-controlled flows. Target deeper pools and seams where trout are feeding on emerging insects.
Summer
Summer brings fantastic dry fly action with prolific hatches of caddis, PMDs, and tricos. Fish early mornings and late evenings for the best results, as midday heat can slow down surface activity.
Fall
Fall is prime for targeting large brown trout during their pre-spawn, making streamers and egg patterns very effective. Focus on deeper runs and structure where browns tend to hold during this aggressive phase.
Winter
Winter fishing is challenging but productive with small midge and baetis nymphs, especially during the warmest part of the day. Look for trout in slower, deeper pools where they hold in colder months.
REMEMBER
The South Platte River at Eleven Mile Canyon is a beautiful tailwater fishery known for its clear, cold waters and healthy trout populations, offering technical fishing in a picturesque setting. Responsible angling is key to maintaining the delicate balance of this pristine environment.
Water Conditions
Water flows are regulated by releases from Eleven Mile Reservoir, and they can vary significantly. Always check the current flow rates before heading out, as low flows can make fish more selective, while high flows can challenge wading.
Regulations
Much of Eleven Mile Canyon is designated catch-and-release with artificial flies and lures only. Be sure to follow these regulations to protect the trout population and preserve this excellent fishery.
Safety
The canyon’s rocky terrain and cold water make wading tricky, especially during high flows. Wear proper wading boots with good traction, and be cautious while navigating the river’s slippery, uneven bed, particularly in deeper or swifter areas.
COMMENTS
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