The South Platte at Deckers is currently at 270 CFS, and the fishing has been awesome! With the recent cooler weather, water temperatures have been staying low throughout the day, keeping the fish happy and actively feeding. The fish are still keying in on larger bugs, so don’t shy away from bigger attractor patterns such as Squirmy Worms, Pat’s Rubber Legs, and Mini Leeches. That said, there are still plenty of opportunities to fish dries throughout the day, with consistent bug activity in the mornings and evenings.
Nymph rigs and hopper droppers have been the most effective techniques lately, with weight being crucial for success. For nymph rigs, we recommend leading with a larger attractor pattern—brown Squirmys and Pat’s Rubber Legs in sizes #8-12 have been our go to lead flies as of late. For droppers, it’s hard to go wrong with a small midge, baetis, or caddis pupa. Think RS-2s, Chocolate Thunders, Graphic Caddis, or a Mayhem Midges in sizes #18-22 for your second fly (Think #14-18 for caddis nymphs). Hopper dropper rigs have also been producing well, especially when fished tight to the banks in the afternoon. Brown and olive Chubby Chernobyls in sizes #8-12 paired with an olive Perdigon or Soft Hackle Pheasant Tail in sizes #16-20 have been top producers for us. Weight has been the most important variable for both nymphing and hopper droppers, so be sure to fish plenty of split shot or use heavy, tungsten-beaded nymphs to ensure adequate depth for your nymphs.
Dry fly action remains consistent in the mornings and evenings, with strong hatches of caddis, baetis, and midges still coming off in good numbers.Though we’re nearing the end of PMD season, Tricos are still present in the mornings, so come prepared with tiny Trico spinners (#18-24) and light tippet for those picky risers. Black RS-2s in a #20-22 have also been producing well when Tricos are present—consider dropping one below a dry or as part of a nymph rig if you see Trico activity. Baetis, midges, and caddis have been coming off throughout the day, with your best shot at targeting risers being in the mornings or late evenings. Griffith’s Gnats, Barr’s Vis-a-Duns, Parachute Adams, and Elk Hair Caddis in sizes #16-22 have been the most productive.
We’re inching closer to fall every day, and the fishing is only getting better. Be sure to swing by the shop and grab some flies before your next outing! See y’all on the water!
Tyler Banker