Where to Go South Platte River – Cheesman Canyon
Current Reports
SUMMER HOURS 6 am to 6 pm Daily
Current Conditions:
Report Date: 7/18/2026
Our technical tailwater that is Cheesman Canyon, is still in great shape as the summer continues to roll on. The waterway is still over 200 cfs (239cfs today), with the water coming exclusively from the bottom release of Cheesman Dam. This means it will stay colder longer when compared to other waterways in the Colorado Rockies currently. As mentioned, the fishing here is technical. The fish should be settled and eating a mix of bugs right now. Look for fish to be pushed into the riffles and more oxygenated water as the day progresses.
Guide Reports -
Shop Report -
Dillon West 7/2/2026
Hatches:
We have Tricos and Caddis in the system right now. These are our summertime favs, but the good old standbys are still there as well. Midges will always be around in the canyon. Expect to see them earlier in the day when the temps are cooler, and the light is low. This will also be true for any BWO activity you might come across. Also keep an eye out for PMD activity mid-day!
Tactics:
Tips:
Weather:
Short term:
It is warm today, but there is some cloud cover out there for us. No rain today, and some mild wind can make for a pleasant but possibly difficult day on the water. Don't forget to cover up and make sure to stay hydrated!
Long term:
We are still getting teased with our afternoon thunderstorms. The first part of this coming week is sunny and warm with temps in the upper 80's. The tail end of the week looks to offer that moisture we desperately need. Tuesday through Saturday hold chances for rain, with the most likely days being Wednesday and Saturday as of now. Bring on the rain!
BE SURE TO CHECK OUT OUR "WHERE TO GO" PAGE FOR DETAILED INFORMATION ON OTHER AREAS!
Recommended Patterns
Dry Fly Patterns
- Organza Trico Spinner, size 20-24
- Sparkle Dun, PMD, size 16-20
- Parachute Adams, size 20-24
- Micro Chubbies, Cinnamon, size 12-16
Nymph Patterns
- Buckskin Caddis, size 18-20
- Bling Midge, size 20-22
- Split Back PMD, size 18-22
- Guide's Choice Hare's Ear, size 14-18
- Massacre Midge Brown, 20-22
- Barrs Graphic Caddis, Tan and Green, size 14-18
Streamer Patterns
- Baby Gonga, Black
- Flatliner, White
- Slump Buster, Olive
Anglers Covey Bug Of The MOnth:
River Details
Cheesman Canyon is one of the most technical and rewarding tailwater fisheries in Colorado. A half-hour hike from Gill trailhead through some hilly terrain gets you to the base of the canyon where the trail splits into a high road and low road. This stretch of the river is catch and release only and is known for holding large rainbows. Almost the entire length of the river that runs through this gorgeous boulder-filled canyon is loaded with deep pocket water and fast runs that provide different challenges depending on where the fish are located. Most of the time the fish are hanging close to undercut boulders and other structure.
Before going to Cheesman, load your box with these patterns: Cheesman Emergers #22-24, Amy's Ants #10-14, hoppers #8-10, Murphy's Bubbleback Midge #20-24, Blindside Midges #20-22, Dorsey's Top Secret and Medallion Midges #22-24, Stonefly nymphs #14-18, Caddis larva #16-20, Tan and orange scuds #14-18, Sparkle Wing RS-2's #18-22, BWO Barr's Emergers #20-22, Copper Johns, Black Beauty #22-24, and Stalcups baetis #20-22.
This is an area we specialize in and are permitted to guide in, so give us a shout if you have any questions or if you're interested in working with one of our Orvis- Endorsed guides to conquer Cheesman.
"THE Canyon. Or one of them anyway. This is one special place. Not only will it challenge your technique, but it will kick your butt on the hike out! We are lucky to have such an amazing fishery!"
Brady Laehr, Director of Operations
Accessibility: There is a 1.5 mile trail from the parking lot on Co 126 to the river. At the river the trail splits into a high and a low section that runs approximately 5 miles upstream from the Wigwam Club (posted) to Cheesman Dam.
Elevation: 6,600 ft
Distance: 42.5 miles from Colorado Springs / 55 minutes .
Season: Fishable all year depending on flows
Fish species: Brown, Rainbow, Cutthroat and Cutbow trout
Fishing Regulations: Catch and release, flies and lures only
Techniques & Tips: Fishing is technical and calls for 9-12 foot leaders and fine tippets - 5X to 6X
Camping: Not in the canyon, though there is camping nearby at Lone Pine and Wigwam Campgrounds on Co 126.
Kids: Yes, but parts of the trail going down to the river can be very steep.
Additional Information: Cheesman Canyon can be crowded, especially in the summer. The further upstream you walk, the fewer crowds you will encounter.
South Platte River – Cheesman Canyon.
Interested in Booking a Trip?
Directions - 42.8 miles - 55 Minutes
- From Angler's Covey head west on US 24 W/Cimarron St, go 16.7 miles
- Turn right at CO-67 towards Deckers, go 23.1 miles
- Slight left at the town of Deckers and CoRd 126, go 3.0 miles
- Parking area is on the left