Previous Fishing Reports

May 5, 2024

Eleven Mile Canyon is fishing pretty good at the time of this report. Flows have dropped slightly over the past few days, but are still at a healthy 108 c.f.s.  This is higher than historical averages for this time of year, which has helped in the overall fishing. There have been some sporadic BWO dry fly activity in the non-windy afternoons, and we are just starting to see some Caddis.  The majority of fish will be caught using nymphing techniques with tiny midge patterns in the #22-24 size range. We are also having success on San Juan worm patterns, baetis emergers, and caddis pupa and larva. Begin your morning with a nymph rig and fish the deeper pools with plenty of weight or heavy lead flies.  Switch over to dries if you see rises or when the water warms up a bit.  Fluorocarbon tippet in the 5x or 6x range with your nymph rigs is essential based on the water clarity.  Here are some of our recommended patterns.

Patterns:

• Sparkle-Wing RS2s, Olive, Gray, #20-24
• Bling Midges, Red, Purple, #22-24
• JuJu Baetis, Black, Purple, #20-24
• Thorax BWOs, Olive, #20-24
• Caddis Larva, Chartreuse, Buckskin, #16-18
• San Juan Worms, Red, Pink, #12-14

Oct 9, 2023

The canyon is fishing pretty good this week. The flows are low only at 45 c.f.s., but trout are stacked up in the deeper pools and riffles. Water clarity is excellent and trout are rising to feed. BWOs are now going off between 10-11am & then again in the late afternoon, especially on the overcast days. The naturals are grey body and olive right now so both BWOs and Adams are productive patterns. Use imitations in the #20-24 range and be sure to have light leaders and small tippet on your dry fly presentations.  For nymphing, try red, black, or purple midges in #22-24 and baetis patterns in the #18-20 range.  Below are some of our recommended patterns.

Patterns:

• GT Adult Adams, Natural, Dun, #20-24
• Bling Midges, Chocolate, Purple, #20-24
• Manhattan Midges, Black, Brown, #20-24
• Hot Pocket BWOs, Olive, #18-22
• Rio Pearl Jam, Green, Pearl, #16-18
• Trico Emergers, Black, Olive, #22-24

Jun 13, 2023

With the large amounts of rainfall recently and low water demand downstream, the flows at Eleven Mile Canyon continue to be low and are currently only at 47 c.f.s.  The water clarity is exceptional, but the fish are extremely spooky and weeds and debris can be an issue.  Make sure to check and clean your flies after each cast. Trout are spread evenly throughout traditional runs and riffles, but anglers need to be stealthy and really key in on their presentations to hook fish.  Use fluorocarbon tippet and very small midge patterns to be successful.  Dry fly action is beginning to pick up with caddis and terrestrials being spotted on the surface now that temperatures are rising.  Try a hopper/dropper rig and be wary of large indicators when nymphing.  Here are some flies which have proven successful in the past few days.

Patterns:

• Graphic Caddis, Olive, Tan, #14-18
• Kryptonite Caddis, Chartreuse, Amber, #14-16
• Amy's Ant, Olive, Red, Amber, #10-14
• Rainbow Warriors, Pearl, Purple, #20-22
• Foam Back Emergers, Black, Gray, #20-24
• RS2s, Gray, Black, Olive, #20-24

Feb 15, 2023

The flows in the canyon have come down slightly over the past week and are currently at 59 c.f.s. Water clarity is excellent making sight fishing possible. The lower half of the canyon has had lots of ice, so expect some company with the majority of anglers fishing Springer Gulch section up to the dam.  Fish will be settled in tight to structures and in the deeper pools.  Look for the areas of river that see some fair amount of sun, and fish the deeper seams and at the end of runs. There has been the occasional riser once the water temperature warms up a bit, but the majority of time should be spent nymphing. The fishing doesn't really pick up until around 10-11am.  Both dry and midge patterns need to be in the #20-26 range. Black, chocolate, purple, and red midges and baetis patterns work well this time of year. Dress in layers as much of the canyon is protected by shady areas, and be prepared to routinely clear the ice off your guides. We would describe the fishing as decent, but not great in the canyon right now. Here are some recommended patterns.

Patterns:

• RS2s, Black, Brown, Gray, #20-24
• JuJu Baetis, Purple, Zebra, Blue, #18-22
• Bling Midges, Chocolate, Clear, #20-24
• Winter Baetis, Black & Olive, #20-24
• Griffith Gnats, Grizzly, Hi-Vis, #20-24
• Zebra Midges, Black, Purple, Red, #20-24

Sep 29, 2022

The canyon is fishing excellent this week. The flows have crept up slightly over the past few days and are currently at 137 c.f.s., which is higher than the historical average for this time of year. The dry fly action continues to be outstanding with a variety of bugs on the surface of the water throughout the day. The fish are holding in riffles in the wider sections of the river. Water clarity is excellent and trout are rising to feed. Tricos are still being seen in the early mornings, with PMD and BWO hatches in the late afternoon well into the evenings. Some Caddis are still coming off but are not as heavy.  Terrestrials are also fooling the fish and a hopper/dropper set-up would be a productive rig this time of year.  Use imitations in the #20-26 range for your midges and be sure to have light leaders and fluorocarbon 5x&6x tippet.

Here are some of our favorite patterns to use right now.

Patterns:

• Drowned Tricos, Black, Gray, #20-24
• Sniper Baetis, Gray, Olive, Purple, #18-20
• Foam Back Emergers, Chocolate, Black, #20-24
• Chubby Chernobyls, Tan, Golden, Pink, #10-14
• Ant Patterns, Black, Red, Brown, #12-16
• I'd Hit That Midge, Clear, Red, Pink, #20-22

Jun 15, 2021

Flows in Eleven Mile have been mostly consistent staying between 55 - 75 c.f.s for the past several weeks (74 today) and the canyon continues to fish well. With the Dream Stream and Deckers flows being so sporadic, the crowds at Eleven Mile have increased, especially on weekends.  Water clarity is excellent. We are still seeing some BWO hatches and caddis are beginning to appear as well. Fishing is best early morning and late afternoon, which is no surprise. Use small midge imitations in the #20-24 range, pay close attention to your drift, and be sure to have light leaders and small tippet on your dry fly presentations to maximize your success. Here are some recommended patterns.

Patterns:

• Bishop Dynamite Caddis, Chartreuse, #16-18
• Darth Baetis, Olive, Gray, #18-20
• Sparkle RS2s, Gray, Black, Olive, #22-24
• Top Secrets, Chocolate, #20-24
• Mother's Day Caddis, Peacock, Tan, #14-18
• Squirmy Worms, Tan, Pink, Red, #12-16

Jan 11, 2021

The flows at Eleven Mile have dramatically increased and are now at 150 c.f.s, which is over triple the historical average of 42 c.f.s in late January, early February. Much of the canyon, however, is now covered in ice. Only the stretches from the twin tunnels to the dam are really fishable right now. The water is crystal clear but make sure you have polarized glasses to cut down on snow glare. We highly recommend using long leaders, small indicators, and fluorocarbon 6/7x tippet. Nymphing in the morning hours is most productive with trout sporadically rising to tiny midges and BWOs. As mentioned in our other reports, wait for the water to heat up a bit, as we have seen very little feeding activity until 11am or so.  Try leading with a brightly colored fly at the top as an attractor pattern (red San Juan, orange egg, scud, etc.) trailed by a dark midge in the #22-26 size range. A #22 or #24 Adams, BWO, or Griffith's Gnat can fool the occasional sipping trout, usually found in the slower water and eddies.  During these cold, winter months, the flies for the canyon really need to be in the #20-#26 sizes to have any success. Listed below are some recommended patterns:

Patterns:

• Foam Back Emergers, Chocolate, Black, #20-24
• Sniper Baetis, Brown, Purple, #18-20
• Miracle Midges, Black, Cream, #20-24
• Morgan's Para Midge, Charcoal, #20-22
• RS2s, Gray, Olive, #20-24
• Sow Bugs, Gray, #18-20

Nov 5, 2020

The gauging station in Eleven Mile is currently not reporting any water flow due to the work Denver Water is doing on the damn's release valves.  We have been told the project should be completed "in November", but do not have any more specific information.  Despite the very low water, the canyon is fishing pretty good this week. The flows are low but trout are stacked up in the deeper pools and riffles. Water clarity is excellent and trout are rising to feed. BWOs are now reliably going off in the mornings and then again in the late afternoons, especially on the overcast days. The naturals are grey and olive body right now so both BWOs and Adams are productive patterns. Use imitations in the #20-24 range and be sure to have light, long leaders and small tippet on your dry fly presentations.  Baetis nymphs and BWO emergers along with leeches and scuds are catching fish.  The name of the game right now really is presentation, small bugs, and sight fishing.  Here are some of our recommended patterns to use right now.

Patterns:

• Barr's BWO Emerger, Natural, Olive, #18-22
• Radiation Baetis, Peacock, Orange, #18-20
• Craven Mole Flies, Brown, Olive, Gray, #20-24
• Etha-Wing BWOs, Olive, #20-24
• Thorax Adams, Dun, #20-24
• Mini Leeches, Black, Olive, #14-16

Aug 19, 2020

The canyon is fishing good this week, despite the dramatic drop in flows.  Currently the flow is 134 c.f.s.  The fish are holding in riffles and in the deeper pools. Tricos are now going off during the morning. Caddis in the late afternoon, especially on the overcast days. Rising temperatures slow down the catch rate during the mid day hours, but the fishing during the early mornings and late evening has been great with several hatches occurring simultaneously. The tricos are in full swing with both duns and spinners fooling fish. Use imitations in the #20-26 range and be sure to have light leaders and small tippet on your dry fly presentations.  Nymphing is suggested with #5x or #6x fluorocarbon tippet. Use an attractor pattern such as a scud, San Juan Worm, or Flashback Pheasant Tail up top & trail a small midge pattern in #20-24 for your nymph rig.  Here are some of our favorite patterns to use right now.

Patterns:

• Bucksin Caddis, Cream, Tan, #14-18
• Vis-A-Dun Tricos, Olive, Black, #20-24
• Drowned Trico Spinners, Olive, Black, #20-24
• Bionic Ants, Black, White, #14-16
• Sparkle Dun PMDs, Yellow, Pink, #16-20
• Foam Caddis, Tan, Olive, Chocolate, #16-18

Jul 27, 2020

The canyon is fishing excellent this week. The flows are up from historical levels and are at 282 c.f.s at the time of this report.  The fish are holding in the riffles in the wider, slower sections of the river. Water clarity is excellent and trout are rising to feed. Caddis are now going off between 7-10am & then again in the late afternoon well into the evenings. The naturals are tan right now. Some PMDs are also coming off but are not as heavy. The tricos are in full swing with both dries and spinners working. The best time for trico hatches have been between 9am-11am.  Use imitations in the #20-26 range for the tricos, #16-18 for the caddis and PMDs, and be sure to have light leaders and fluorocarbon tippet on your dry fly presentations.

Patterns:

• Amy's Ant, Purple, Red, Olive, #10-14
• RS2s, Gray, Black, Olive, #20-24
• Rainbow Warriors, Red, Black, Pearl, #18-22
• Drowned TB Tricos, Black, Olive, #20-24
• Imposter Midges, Black, Red, Purple, #20-22
• Apple Caddis, Chartreuse, #14-18

Jun 10, 2020

The canyon is fishing excellent this week. The flows have increased substantially in the last 5 days and are now at 269 c.f.s, which is more than double the historical average for this time of year. The dry fly action is really starting to pick up and caddis and BWOs are being seen all along the banks.  Water clarity is excellent and trout are rising to feed. Caddis are now going off between 8-11am & then again in the late afternoon well into the evenings. The naturals are dun and tan right now. Use imitations in the #16-#20 range and be sure to have long leaders and 6x tippet on your dry fly presentations. Look for fish trying to escape the faster water by fishing slow back eddies and areas close to the banks. For nymph rigs, try leading with a larger pattern such as a stonefly, girdle bug, or scud followed by a sparser midge in the #22-24 size range.  Hopper-dropper rigs are also a good choice right now.  Here are some of our recommended patterns.

Patterns:

• Amy's Ant, Olive, Red, Purple, #10-14
• Foam Caddis, Tan, Olive, Dun, #16-18
• Kryptonite Caddis, Amber, Chartreuse, #16-18
• UV Emergers, Black, Chocolate, Olive, #20-24
• Jiggy Caddis Larva, Green, #12-14
• Buckskins, Tan, #16-20

May 1, 2020

The flows at Eleven Mile Canyon have steadily been dropping over the last few weeks and are currently at 64 c.f.s. which is much more in-line with historical averages.  The fishing has really started to pick up, however, despite the drop in flows, thanks to more abundant bug life and warmer temperatures.  Furthermore, Eleven Mile Reservoir is still at 102% capacity, which is great news for the upcoming weeks and months.  Dry fly fishing has increased with tiny BWOs and cream or black midges being the best patterns to fool selective risers, usually with hatches beginning around 11am and continuing all throughout the afternoon. Small RS2's, BWO emergers, and baetis nymphs have been the most effective droppers. We recommend fishing with 5x and 6x fluorocarbon and look for the trout to be holding in the slower currents, deeper pools, and along the banks. Redds are prevalent this time of year, so please be conscientious of where you fish and wade and leave the spawning fish alone.  The 10am - 4pm time slot still seems to be the most productive fishing. Mornings can be quite chilly in the shaded parts of the canyon, so remember to dress accordingly. Here are some of our recommended patterns.

Patterns:

• Soft Hackle PTs, Natural, Black, Orange, #18-24
• Sparkle Wing RS2s, Black, Gray, Olive, #22-24
• Hot Pocket BWOs, Olive, #18-22
• Griffith Gnats, Black, Grizzly, #22-24
• Darth Baetis, Purple, Black, Gray, #18-20
• Black Beauties, Black, Red, #20-24

Feb 3, 2020

Flows have increased at Eleven Mile Canyon this week at pretty high winter levels around 135 c.f.s. Water clarity remains excellent and the recent cold temperatures have keep the crowds to a minimum. Be sure to dress accordingly with plenty of layers, as temperatures can be down right frigid in the early mornings. The lower 2/3rds of the canyon may be frozen, so expect some company with the majority of anglers fishing Springer Gulch section up to the dam. Be prepared to routinely clear the ice off of your guides. Fish will be settled in tight to structures, so fish the deeper seams and at the ends of runs. Water temperature is in the 30's, so the most productive fishing will be from the 11am-4pm range. You may see some sparse dry fly action mid-day, but the fishing will be primarily nymphing. The occasional risers will be small midges and BWOs later in the afternoon. Here are some recommended patterns. Dry imitations need to be in the #22-24 range as well as the midges. Here are some recommended patterns.

Patterns:

• Barr's BWO emergers, Olive, Tan, #18-22
• JuJu Baetis, Black, Purple, Blue, #20-24
• UV Emergers, Chocolate, Gray, #20-24
• Midge Larva, Red, Black, #20-24
• Skinny Nelsons, Zebra, #18-24
• Thorax BWOs, Olive, #20-24

Nov 5, 2019

The canyon is fishing pretty good this week. The flows are low at 62 c.f.s, but plenty of trout are still stacked up in the deeper pools and riffles. Water clarity is excellent and trout are rising to feed on the warmer days. BWOs are now going off between 10-11am & then again in the late afternoon, especially on the overcast days. The naturals are gray body and olive right now so both BWOs and Adams are productive patterns. The occasional Trico can also still fool a trout looking up late in the season.  Use imitations in the #20-26 range and be sure to have light leaders and small tippet on your dry fly presentations.  The best dry fly action has been between 10am - 2pm. We suggest you use an attractor pattern such as a scud, egg, or bright copper john up top & trail a BWO emerger or small baetis midge pattern for your nymph rig. For top water action, stick to size #22 or smaller and use fluorocarbon tippet with such low flows. Here are some recommended patterns.

Patterns:

• RS2s, Black, Gray, Olive, #22-24
• Thorax BWOs, Gray, Olive, #20-24
• Barr's BWO emerger, Natural, Olive, #18-22
• Pheasant Tails, Black, Red, Natural, #18-24
• Foam Back emergers, Chocolate, Gray, #22-24
• Radiation Baetis, Peacock, Pink, #18-20

Sep 21, 2019

Eleven Mile Canyon is fishing excellent this week and is probably the most consistent place to hook fish right now on the South Platte. The flows have come down slightly and are now at 86 c.f.s.  Eleven Mile Reservoir is still at 102% capacity which is fantastic news going into the fall season.  The fish are holding in riffles and in the deeper pools during the middle of the day and water clarity remains good. Trico hatches continue to be going off during the morning between 8am - 11:30am. Caddis are hatching in the late afternoon, especially on the overcast days. Both trico duns and spinners are fooling fish. Use imitations in the #20-24 range and be sure to have light leaders and small tippet on your dry fly presentations.  If you’re nymphing, try leading with the reliable San Juan Worm or a larger beadhead fly, followed by black, olive, or purple midges in the size #22-24 range.  Target the deeper pools and shady spots of the canyon during the mid-afternoon hours and don't be afraid to slap a hopper off the bank to trigger a strike.

Patterns:

• Tails-Up Tricos, Black, Olive, #20-22
• Buckskin Caddis, Tan, #14-18
• San Juan Worms, Red, Tan, Pink, #12-16
• Zebra Midges, Black, Purple, #20-22
• Hippie Stompers, Tan, Yellow, Orange, #12-14
• CDC Elk Caddis, Peacock, Tan, Olive, #16-20

Aug 7, 2019

The canyon is fishing excellent this week. The flows have dropped dramatically and are at 224 c.f.s., which is still approximately 40% higher than the historic average.  The dry fly action has been spectacular! The fish are holding in riffles in the wider sections of the river. Water clarity is excellent and trout are rising to feed. Caddis are now going off between 8-10am & then again in the late afternoon well into the evenings. The naturals are tan right now. Some PMDs are coming off but are not as heavy. The tricos are in full swing with both dries and spinners working. The hatch has been typically occurring early in the mornings lasting from first light until about 11am. Use imitations in the #20-26 range (olive for the females, black or gray for the males) and be sure to have light leaders and tippet on your dry fly presentations.

Patterns:

• TB Drowned Trico, Olive, Black, Gray, #20-24
• Etha-Wing Trico, Black, #20-24
• RS2s, Black, Gray, Olive, #20-24
• Elk Hair Caddis, Tan, Yellow, #14-18
• Amy's Ant, Olive, Red, #10-14
• Graphic Caddis, Olive, Tan, Orange, #14-18

May 27, 2019

Flows have been very consistent in Eleven Mile Canyon around 90 c.f.s for the past month (87 as of today) & the canyon continues to fish well. With the flows at Deckers being so sporadic, the crowds at Eleven Mile have increased, especially on weekends.  Water clarity is excellent. We are still seeing some terrific BWO hatches on the overcast days and are just starting to see Caddis on the banks. Fishing is best early in the morning and late afternoon, which is no surprise. Use small midge imitations in the #20-24 range, baetis patterns in the #18-#22, and pay close attention to your drift.  Be sure to have light leaders and small tippet on your dry fly presentations to maximize your success. Here are some recommended patterns.

Patterns:

• Etha-Wing BWOs, Olive, Dun, #20-24
• Thorax BWOs, Daek Olive, #18-24
• Radiation Baetis, Peacock, Orange, #18-20
• JuJu Baetis, Purple, Zebra, #20-24
• Imposter Midges, Purple, Red, Olive, #20-22
• Rainbow Warriors, Red, Pearl, Black, #20-24

Apr 24, 2019

Almost all ice is now gone throughout 11 Mile canyon, and the fishing has really started to pick up. Consistent stream flows around 80 c.f.s for the past several days have certainly helped conditions, and just this am, the canyon was bumped up to 90 c.f.s Dry fly fishing has increased with tiny BWOs and cream or black midges being the best patterns to fool selective risers. We have seen the hatches later in the day around 2pm in the afternoon.  Small RS2's, BWO emergers, and baetis nymphs have been the most effective droppers. We recommend fishing with 5x and 6x fluorocarbon and look for trout to be holding in the deeper pools and runs. The 10am - 4pm time slot seems to be the most productive fishing. Mornings can still be quite chilly in the shaded parts of the canyon, so remember to dress accordingly. Here are some of our recommended patterns:

Patterns:

• Radiation Baetis, Orange, Peacock, #18-20
• JuJu Baetis, Purple, Black, #20-24
• Pete's Caddis, Chartreuse, #20-22
• Sniper Baetis, Purple, Gray, #18-22
• BH Barr's Emergers, Olive, Dun, #18-22
• Etha-Wing BWOs, Olive, #18-24

Mar 5, 2019

Eleven Mile Canyon continues to fish well recently, despite some extreme cold weather. The rainbows are spawning, so please be respectful of the spawning redds. That also means larger crowds, so be prepared to share the river. Flows have dropped slightly over the past ten days and are at 59 c.f.s. at the time of this report, but the fishing remains good.  Dry fly fishing has increased in the past two weeks, with tiny BWOs and cream or black midges being the best patterns to fool selective risers. Small RS2's, BWO emergers, and baetis nymphs have been the most effective droppers. We recommend fishing with 5x and 6x fluorocarbon and look for trout to be holding in deeper pools and runs. Streamer fishing has also been working in the canyon, especially in the deeper water. Try striping a sparkle bugger or a slump buster (white/olive/black) through pools and around rocks. The 10am - 4pm time slot seems to be the most productive fishing. Mornings can be quite chilly in the shaded parts of the canyon, so remember to dress accordingly. Below are some of our recommended patterns for this time of year.

Patterns:

• Radiation Baetis, Orange, Pink, #18-22
• Darth Baetis, Gray, Olive, Purple, #18-22
• Barr's BWO, Olive/Dun, #20-22
• Thorax BWOs, Olive/Dun, #20-24
• Pheasant Tails, Natural, Black, Orange, #18-24
• Slump Busters, Black, Rust, White, #6-10

Jan 27, 2019

The flows in the canyon have remained fairly consistent over the past week around 62 c.f.s. at the time of this report.  Water clarity is excellent making sight fishing possible. The lower 2/3rds of the canyon will be frozen, so expect some company with the majority of anglers fishing Springer Gulch section up to the dam. Again, dress in layers as much of the canyon is protected by shady areas, and be prepared to routinely clear the ice off your guides. Fish will be settled in tight to structures, so fish the deeper seams and at the ends of runs. There has been the occasional riser once the water temperature warms up a bit. Dry imitations need to be in the #22-24 range as well as the midges. Black, purple, & red midges work well this time of year.   Here are some recommended patterns.

Patterns:

• JuJu Baetis, Purple, Red, Black, #20-24
• Barr's BWO Emerger, Olive/Tan, #18-22
• Etha-Wing BWOs, Olive/Dun, #18-24
• RS2s, Olive, Gray, Purple, #20-24
• Black Beauties, Black/Red/Copper, #20-24
• UV Emergers, Chocolate, Gray, #20-24

Dec 7, 2018

Winter fishing has certainly arrived on the South Platte.  Eleven Mile Canyon is fishing slightly better than the Dream Stream right now, but is still difficult. The flows are higher than the Dream but still relatively low at 78 c.f.s, so look for trout in the deeper pools and riffles. Water clarity is excellent, but there is some significant amounts of debris, so be prepared to clean off your flies after a few drifts. A few shady spots of the river are starting to see some ice build-up. BWOs are hatching between 10-11am and again in the late afternoon. Use imitations in the #20-24 range and be sure to have light leaders and small tippet, especially on your dry fly presentations.  Don't hesitate to try a streamer pattern along the banks and in the darker water to enhance a strike from a predatory trout.  Bellow are some of our recommended winter patterns to fish right now.

Patterns:

• Killer Mayflies, Black, Brown, Olive, #20-22
• JuJu Flash Midges, Black, Red, Olive, #20-22
• Miracle Midges, Cream, #20-24
• Black Beauties, Black/Copper/Red, #18-24
• Muddlers, Gray, White, #10-14
• Thorax BWOs, Olive, #18-24

Oct 1, 2018

The flow at 11 Mile Canyon is currently at 106 cfs.  Mayfly hatches (BWOs, PMDs, and Tricos) have been consistent in the size #18-24 range. Caddis have been in the #16-20 range. Best dry fly action has been on cloudy calm days. For nymphing, small mayfly, caddis, and emerger patterns are still consistent, but smaller diameter tippet and adjusting depth frequently is a key strategy for success. Fluorocarbon tippet in 5-6X is essential with the lower flows and clear visibility.  Recent cooler nights have brought the water temperature to around 54 degrees mid-day, which is a welcome to both the trout and anglers.  Make sure to use enough split shot or larger tungsten bead point flies to get your flies down deep quickly and adjust your weight prior to switching patterns. Streamer action is picking up with the fall season now upon us.  Below are some recommended patterns for this time of year.

Patterns:

• Tung Tactical Mayfly, Black, Olive, Brown, #14-16
• Tails-Up Tricos, Black, Olive, #20-22
• CDC RS2s, Grey, Black, #20-22
• Radiation Baetis, Orange, Peacock, #18-20
• JuJu Flash, Purple, Red, Chartreuse, #20-22
• Thorax BWOs, Dark Olive, #18-24

Aug 15, 2018

It is mid August and the warmer days are slowing the fishing down during the middle of the day. Rising temperatures are sending the fish into the deeper holes. The fishing during the early mornings and late evening, however, has been fantastic with some great dry fly action.

Eleven Mile Canyon is fishing good right now. The flows are at 100 cfs and the fish are holding in riffles and in the deeper pools during the middle of the day. Water clarity is good. Tricos are now going off during the morning between 8am - 11:30am. Caddis are hatching in the late afternoon, especially on the overcast days. The caddis naturals are tan & olive right now. The tricos are in full swing with trout rising to both dries and spinners. Use imitations in the #20-24 range and be sure to have light leaders and small tippet on your dry fly presentations.  Below are some recommended patterns for fishing the canyon.

Patterns:

• Chocolate Thunders, Chocolate, #20-22
• Red MB P.Tails, Red, #18-20
• Thorax Trico, Black, Olive, #20-24
• Pure Midge Larva, Chartreuse, #20-22
• Zebra Midges, Chocolate, Black, #20-22
• Sparkle Wing RS2s, Chartreuse, Grey, #20-24

Jul 16, 2018

The flow at Eleven Mile Canyon is at 280 cfs and the river is fishing fantastic. Nymphing the slower pools will produce fish. We are now seeing lots of tricos in the morning along with the Caddis that have been present for the past several weeks. Try Caddis nymphs, pink/red San Juan worms, and black or grey midge patterns in the #20-24 size range. 5x leaders and 6x fluorocarbon tippet are recommended for the canyon.  Water temperatures are still quite high in the heat of the day, so we highly recommend getting on the water early, keep your picture taking to a minimum, and keep your hands wet and those fish in the water as much as possible.

Below are some of our favorite patterns to use right now:

Patterns:

• Amy's Ant, Olive, Red, #10-14
• Desert Storm, Chartreuse, #20-22
• Perfect Wing Trico, Black, #20-24
• Skinny Nelson, Black, Copper, #18-24
• Moodah Poodah, Tan, Olive, Purple, #12-14
• Bubbleback PMD, Yellow, Olive, #16-20

Jun 12, 2018

Water levels in Eleven Mile Canyon have dropped over the past few days and the current flow is at 55 c.f.s. While there are still plenty of visible trout to cast at, the fishing has become more challenging with the decrease of water being released. With the temperatures climbing as the day progresses, the best fishing continues to be in the early morning hours and later in the evenings. Caddis pupa and larva are abundant and we are still seeing the occasional BWO on the water. When nymphing, be wary of larger strike indicators, use 5x or 6x fluorocarbon tippet, and stick with the smaller size #22-#24 midges. Have a variety of Pheasant Tails, Baetis, Caddis, and BWOs in your flybox. Below are some recommended patterns that have been successful in fooling the trout.

Patterns:

• Graphic Caddis, Tan, Olive, #14-18
• Nitro Caddis, Tan, Olive, #16-18
• RL Tung Pheasant Tail, Natural, Black, #18-22
• CDC RS2, Purple, Grey, #20-24
• Purple Haze, Dun, Olive, #18-24
• Trans Ant, Black, Red, #14-20

May 8, 2018

Signs of spring are beginning to show all along the South Platte River. The bug activity has increased dramatically over the past few weeks and the fish are enjoying the increase in multiple food sources. We are seeing a heavy emergent activity of mayflies, midges and even caddis.

The flows at Eleven Mile Canyon have been bumped slightly over the past few days and are now around 85 cfs.  The water temperature is in the mid-40s and excellent water clarity makes sight fishing a breeze.  These conditions do require stealthier approaches, lighter tippets (fluorocarbon), smaller flies, and longer leaders. Make sure you use plenty of weight, be wary of large, bright strike indicators, and get your patterns into the fish’s feeding lanes quickly. The best fishing has been between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. We are starting to catch fish on caddis larva and pupa patterns and BWO hatches continue to be abundant in the late afternoons, especially on overcast days.  As always is the case, look for trout to be holding in the slower, deeper runs and pools where they can obtain the largest quantity of food, while expending the least amount of energy.  

Patterns:

• Thorax BWOs, Olive, Dun, #18-24
• Rainbow Warriors, Red, Pearl, #20-22
• Sparkle Wing RS2s, Grey, Olive, #20-24
• Juju Baetis, Black, Purple, Red, #18-22
• Sam's Carolina Caddis, Chartreuse, #18-20
• Nitro Caddis, Tan, Chartreuse, #16-18

Mar 9, 2018

The flow in Eleven Mile Canyon has been consistent around 75 c.f.s for the past several weeks, which is slightly above the historical average for this time of year. The water is for the most part clear, allowing for abundant sight fishing. The best fishing has been between 9am - 3pm. On some days, the wind has picked up in the late afternoons, and the fishing slows down a bit. There is very little ice on the banks, so the majority of the river is fishable. The trout have been taking small midges and emergers in the morning, with dry fly activity in the later afternoon. For success, you must use tiny patterns in the #20-26 range for both nymphing and dry flies.  We recommend using plenty of split-shot, long leaders, and certainly 6x fluorocarbon tippet. Midges and BWOs have been spotted on the surface on overcast days, but nymphing is still the most productive technique this time of year. Try an attractor pattern up top (scuds/eggs/worms), trailed by chocolate, purple, red, or black midges. The recent warmer weather has seen an increase in insect life along the banks and the canyon fish seem to be healthy, strong, and abundant.

Patterns:

• JuJu Baetis, Purple, Red, #20-24
• Sniper Baetis, Purple, Black, #18-22
• Zebra Midges, Black, Red, Chocolate, #20-22
• Griffith Gnats, Grizzly, Hi-Vis, #22-24
• Sow Bugs, Gray, #16-18
• Sam's Carolina Caddis, Chartreuse, #18-20

Dec 4, 2017

Over the weekend, flows have increased in the canyon to 90 c.f.s, which is good news.  The water is clear with river temperatures in the low 40's, so sight fishing should be possible.  Try different weights to hit all the levels of the water column to see where the fish are feeding and adjust accordingly. Midges and BWO nymph imitations should be your focus throughout the winter.  Black, chocolate, and red midge colors are good this time of year.  We also recommend going down to 6x or even 7x fluorocarbon.  Some midge hatches are happening in the afternoon, so make sure to have some #22-#24 Adams or BWOs in your fly box. Nymphing has been productive lately, but don't miss the opportunity to go after fish targeting specific hatches, especially on those overcast days. 

Patterns:

• Barr's BWO Emergers, Olive, #18-22
• Thorax BWO Dry, Olive, Dark Grey, #20-24
• Parachute Adams, Grey, #20-24
• Zebra Midges, Red, Chocolate, Black, #20-22
• Killer Mayfly, Black, Brown, #18-22
• Darth Baetis, Black, Olive, Grey, #18-22

Sep 20, 2017

Fishing in Eleven Mile Canyon has been pretty good lately. As we transition into fall the PMD hatch has come to an end while the fall Blue Winged Olive hatch begins. Look for BWO's hatching in the afternoons, especially on cloudy days with light winds.

We are still seeing good Trico hatches in the mornings which should continue into October. September is also a great time to try a hopper dropper combo, especially in the afternoons when no other hatch is obvious.

Patterns:

• Barr's BWO Emerger, #18-22
• TB Pheasant Tail, #18-22
• Sparkle Dun Baetis, Olive, #20-22
• JuJubee Midge, Red, Brown, #20-22
• Zebra Midge, Black, Copper, #20-22
• Griffith's Gnat, Grizzly, #18-22

Jul 12, 2017

Fishing in 11 Mile Canyon is very good. We are seeing all of the typical summer hatches. Tricos, Pale Morning Duns (PMD), Caddis and Stoneflies.

Tricos Duns (female/olive) are hatching first thing in the morning followed by the Trico Spinner Fall. Just before the Tricos wrap up the PMDs start to come off. The entire process is usually wrapped up by 1pm.

In the afternoon and evening try using a Hopper/Dropper combo or a Caddis Dry Imitation. 

Patterns:

• Drowned Trico Spinner, #20-22
• Barr's Visa-dun Trico, #20-22
• Comparadun PMD, #16-18
• Thorax PMD, #16-18
• Hippy Stomper, #14-16
• Elk Hair Caddis, #16-18
• RS2, Black, #20-22

Jun 19, 2017

The entire South Platte is fishing great. It's an excellent time to be on the water!

Flows have been bouncing around a bit but the additional water is welcome. Like the rest of the South Platte we are starting to see Tricos and PMD's. The fish should start keying in on them soon.

Caddis have been active throughout the day. This is also a great time of the year to throw a Hopper + Dropper.

Patterns:

• Bead Head Pheasant Tail, #18-22
• Puterbaugh Caddis, #16-18
• Girdle Bug, Coffee/Black, #6-10
• RS2, Black, #20-22
• Hares Ear, Olive, #16-18
• Trico Spinner Pearl Wing, #20-22
• Stimulator, #12-16

May 22, 2017

Fishing in the canyon has been very good. Flows have been pretty consistent over the past month but are still on the low side. While not as technical as the Dream Stream these fish will still spook so approach with caution.

Midges, Blue Winged Olives (BWO's), and Caddis are all active. Start the day dead drifting nymphs or stripping/swinging small streamers. We have been seeing some hatches beginning in the early afternoon.

If you see Caddis fluttering around the water but no obvious hatch try fishing a Caddis Pupa just under the surface either behind a dry or as part of a subsurface rig.

Patterns:

• S Platte Roller, #14-16
• Two Bit Hooker, Brown, Red, #18-20
• Mercury Phesant Tail, #18-20
• Etha-wing BWO, Olive, #20-22
• JuJu Baetis, Purple, #18-22

Apr 20, 2017

With consistent warm spring temperatures and decent flows the fishing in the canyon has been heating up. More fish are leaving their deep wintering holes and venturing into the shallower riffles and runs to feed.

While good hatches of Blue Winged Olives (BWO's) have been going off throughout the South Platte River the fish seem to still be focused on feeding subsurface.

Good hatches of Baetis (BWO's) have been going off throughout the South Platte River and the Caddis are just around the corner.

We've been seeing good surface activity in the afternoon. Especially on overcast days with less wind. 

Nymphing with Baetis and Caddis larva can be very effective. As the Caddis become more prevalent, swinging pupa patterns can be deadly.

Don't overlook stripping or swinging streamers. With warmer water temps these fish will move for a meal. 

Patterns:

• Etha-Wing BWO, #20-22
• Vis-dun Baetis, #20-22
• Rubber leg Pheasant Tail, #18-22
• Juans Hi-Vis Baetis, Red, Purple, #18-20
• Wooly Bugger, #12-14
• Mini Leach, #14-16
• Caddis Larva, #16-18

Feb 18, 2017

The flows in the canyon have been drifting up slowly over the past few weeks. Most of the water is ice free and accessible. Overall, the fishing has been fairly decent.

Despite the warm afternoons we've had lately the overnight temps are still very cold. Focus on the areas that have the earliest exposure to the sun.

Midge hatches have been somewhat sporadic. Dead drifting midge patterns or swinging small streamers and mini leaches have both produced fish. Fishing small (20-26) midge patterns on the surface has also been effective when fish are rising.

Patterns:

• Zebra Midge, red, #20-22
• Skinny Nelson, black, #20-24
• Fly Currents UV Emerger, black, brown, olive, #20-24
• Sniper Baetis , olive, purple, #18-22
• Mini Leaches, natural, black, rust, #12-16

Jan 16, 2017

The fishing in the canyon is fantastic. If you wanna dry fly fish, which is proving productive as long as the wind is down, try a tiny Parachute Adams trailed by a small high viz Griffiths Gnat. Nymph the deep slow pools with 6x flurocarbon tippet and tiny red, black and purple midges. Don't hesitate to dredge the bottom with your favorite streamer pattern like a Slump Buster or white Wooley Bugger. 

Patterns:

• Wooley Bugger, White, #6-10
• High Viz Griffiths Gnat, Natural, #20-24

Dec 13, 2016

The canyon is fishing better than the Dream Stream right now, but is still difficult. The flows are much higher at 96 c.f.s. Anglers should still look for trout in the deeper pools and riffles. Water clarity is excellent. 

 A few shady spots of the river are starting to see some ice build-up. BWOs are hatching between 10-11am & then again in the late afternoon. Use imitations in the #20-24 range and be sure to have light leaders and small tippet on your dry fly presentations.

Patterns:

• Griffith Gnat, #20-24
• GT Adams/BWOs, #20-24
• Hot Pocket BWO Emergers, #20-24
• Midges, #22-24

Oct 10, 2016

Flows in the canyon have been hovering in the 120 cfs range and fishing has been great.

We are still some Trico's but the hatch is starting to taper off. On cooler and overcast days we are also seeing decent Blue Winged Olive hatches.

As night time temperatures continue to drop the fish are less active in the early morning hours. Look for activity to pick up after 10 am as the water and air begin to warm.

Patterns:

• Pheasant Tail, #20-24
• RS2, Black, Gray, #20-24
• Barr's Emerger, #20-22
• Parachute Adams, #20-24
• Trico Spinner, #22-24

Sep 1, 2016

The canyon is fishing excellent this week. The flows are up at 184 cfs and the fish are rising! Sight fishing is definitely possible. Tricos are now going off between 7-11am and caddis are plentiful in the late afternoon well into the evenings. Some PMDs are also being spotted but are not as heavy. The Tricos are past full swing and are getting smaller with every week.

Use olive imitations (female) in the early morning and switch to the black as the day goes on. Use #20-24 range and be sure to have light leaders and fluorocarbon tippet.

Patterns:

• Trico Spinner, Pearl Black, #22-24
• Thorax Trico, #22-24
• RS2, Black, Sparkle Wing, #20-24
• Graphic Caddis, #18-20
• Caddis, Foam, Tan, #16-20

Aug 1, 2016

The canyon is fishing good and the flows are at 198 cfs. Fish are holding in riffles during the mornings and moving to the deep pools later in the day. Water clarity is good and Tricos are still going off during the morning between 8am - 11:30am. The fish are feeding heavily on the trico spinners. Caddis are hatching in the late afternoons especially on the overcast days. The caddis naturals are tan and light yellow right now.

Try fishing a double dry rig with a light yellow Elk Hair Caddis followed by a Trico Spinner. Use Trico imitations in the #20-24 range and be sure to have light leaders and small tippet on your dry fly presentations.

Patterns:

• Trico Spinner, Pearl Black, Drowned, #22-24
• Thorax Trico, #22-24
• RS2, Black, Sparkle Wing, #20-24
• Graphic Caddis, #18-20
• Caddis, Elk Hair, #16-20

Jul 22, 2016

Eleven Mile Canyon is at 113 cfs and is fishing fantastic. Nymphing the slower pools will produce fish. Tricos in the morning along with the Caddis have been present for the past several weeks. Try Caddis nymphs, pink/red San Juan worms, black, grey or brown midge patterns in the #20-24 size range.

If you prefer dry fly fishing you're in for a treat. Try a rusty spinner behind an Elk Hair Caddis.

Patterns:

• Trico Spinner, Pearl Black, Drowned, #22-24
• Thorax Trico, #22-24
• RS2, Black, Sparkle Wing, #20-24
• Graphic Caddis, #18-20
• Caddis, Elk Hair, #16-20
• Fat Albert Hopper, #14-12

Jul 1, 2016

The canyon is fishing excellent this week. The flows have been rising steadily and are now at 98 c.f.s. There are trout everywhere, but especially stacked up in the deeper pools and riffles. Water clarity is excellent and trout are rising to feed.

Caddis, PMD, and Tricos are now all going off! The fishing is best between 8-11am & then again in the late afternoon, especially on the overcast days. The caddis naturals are small and dark in color. Use imitations in the #18-20 range and be sure to have long leaders and small fluorocarbon tippet on your dry fly presentations.

Patterns:

• Trico Spinner, Pearl Black, Drowned, #22-24
• Thorax Trico, #22-24
• Adams, Hot Pocket, #20-24
• Graphic Caddis, #18-20
• Caddis, Foam, Olive, Brown, #16-20
• Peacock Caddis, #16-20

Jun 1, 2016

Eleven Mile Canyon has a reputation for great fly fishing opportunities, and currently the river is not disappointing. With flows consistently hovering around 75 cfs, water clarity is exceptional. Trout of all species are abundant, and spread evenly throughout traditional runs, riffles and pools. If you spend some extra time carefully looking in these areas, sight fishing for trout in the 16-19 inch range can be excellent.

Dry fly action is ever present especially into the evening. Don't be afraid to throw a small streamer like a slump buster through the deeper pools.

Patterns:

• Parachute Adams, #20-22
• Comparadun BWO, #20-22
• Pheasant Tail, Flashback, #20-22
• RS2, Gray, Sparkle Wing, #20-22
• Slumpbuster, #8-12

Apr 1, 2016

If it’s great dry fly fishing you want, then make sure you hit the canyon soon. The Blue Winged Olive hatch has been exceptional. The flows are at 60 cfs and it’s an opportune time for sight fishing. Fish a tandem dry fly rig with a size 18 Parachute Adams up front and size 22 or 24 Parachute Blue Winged Olive trailing.

Keep the distance between the flies short (around 6-8 inches). If the space between your dry flies is too large they will get stuck in different currents, and your presentation will be compromised.

Don’t let the great dry fly fishing overshadow the fantastic nymphing to be found in the canyon right now. Fish a tandem rig with a red San Juan worm up front and purple JuJu Baetis trailing. If you don’t get any takers on the Baetis try switching it out for a U.V. Midge Emerger.

Patterns:

• Parachute Adams, #20-22
• Comparadun BWO, #20-22
• Pheasant Tail, Flashback, #20-22
• RS2, Gray, Sparkle Wing, #20-22
• Barr's Emerger, BWO, #20-22

Mar 7, 2016

Almost all ice is off the water at 11 mile canyon. The banks can still be snowy so use caution when walking down to the water. The flows are hovering around 65 cfs so look for fish in the deep pools and runs.

Use long leaders with 5x and 6x fluorocarbon tippet. Mornings can be cold in the shade of the canyon so dress warm. Try leading with an orange egg pattern, and a black u.v. emerger behind.

Patterns:

• Foam Back Emerger, Choclate, #20-24
• UV Emerger, Black/Choclate, #20-24
• Pheasant Tail, Flashback, #20-22
• RS2, Gray, Black, Sparkle Wing, #20-22
• Barr's Emerger, BWO, #20-22