Welcome to Clear Creek, Colorado, where the trout are wily and the water is swift! This picturesque creek runs parallel to I-70 from Georgetown to Golden, offering easy access to some fantastic fly fishing spots.

Clear Creek continues to fish fantastically. Recent rain bumps have settled into manageable flows around 110 CFS, the water remains clear, and trout are eating everything from midges to terrestrials. Hopper action is on the rise, and streamer enthusiasts are finding success in early and late light. Afternoon storms are still a threat—plan accordingly and expect divided water temps.

Rise Beyond Fly Fishing – Clear Creek Deep Dive
Hilights what’s cooking in pocket water, how to fish hoppers right, and which techniques are outperforming average day guidance.

• AS GOOD AS IT GETS!
• Flow Rate: ~110 CFS (soft post-storm receding)
• Water Temp: Mid- to upper 50s °F
• Air Temp: Comfortable 60s–70s °F; afternoon storms possible
• Clarity: Excellent—prime sight-fishing from riffle to pocket
• Best Times: 6:30–10 AM; evenings when clouds build
• Fishing Pressure: Moderate near Golden, lighter upstream
  

Note: Midges and BWOs dominate through the shadows. Terrestrials and hoppers are gaining midday traction in calm zones.

Drys & Terrestrials

• Hopper (e.g., Chubby Chernobyl) – size 12–14
• Beetle / Ant patterns – size 14–16
• Superman Caddis, Griffith’s Gnat – size 16–18

Nymphs & Emergers

• Juju Baetis – 18–22
• Graphic Caddis or RS2 – 20–24
• Frenchie or Hare’s Ear – 18–20

Streamers

• Chicago Overcoat
• Kreelex
• Mini Jig Bugger

• Morning: Clean dries and emerger rigs in pockets where trout hunt midges.
• Mid-Day: Terrestrials make the difference—focus on slower seams and grassy edges.
• Afternoon: Storm approach—switch to micro streamers or tight-nymph fishing in shaded runs.
• Tip: Long leaders, soft presentations, and watch the sky—hydraulics and weather matter.

Q: Is the rain bump still hanging around?
A: No—flows have receded into a very fishable range with minimal stain.

Q: What bugs are most reliable right now?
A: Midges continue through late-day, with BWOs and PMDs holding in cooler spots. Afternoon brings bug-terrestrial crossover.

Q: Are streamers worth casting?
A: Definitely in low-light or shaded seams—light, thin bugs get more attention.

Q: Best rod setup for Clear Creek?
A: A 4- or 5-weight with 5X–6X, 12–14 ft leaders gives the finesse needed here.

Q: What brings you the best shot?
A: Early dries in riffles and hopper-dropper tactics in transition zones.