Clear Creek River Report
6-8-2026
Flows are up with snow melt, but water clarity isn't bad at all, especially compared to a typical year. Fishing pressure has been steady, as the bite has generally been good. The tuber hatch is on full swing in Golden, so head up into the canyon. Fish will be in areas that block current, and pocket water can be great. Also, don't forget to add weight, be it a bigger bead or some shot to get your flies down quickly in the strike zone. Hatches have been primarily Midges, BWO's, Stones and Caddis as well.
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For dries, throw a Sexton's Grunch, Chubby Chernobyl, Superman Caddis, Stimmie, Sparkle Dun BWO, Hi Viz Griffith's Gnat, Film Critic, AR's BWO Adult and Emerger and a Foam Run Caddis.
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For Nymphs/subsurface use a BH Electric Rock Worm, CDC Thrasher, AR's Perdigon, Arnot's Pocket Drone, BH Caddis Pupa, Trina's Squirm, San Juan Worm, Rainbow Warrior, Simple PTN, Juju Baetis, Hogan S&M Nymph, Sweet Meat Caddis, or a CDC Thrasher.
Guide Rating
4/5
Weather Experienced
- Temperature: Lower 70's (Upper canyon)
- Wind Conditions: Light breeze
- Precipitation: 20% chance of PM storms
Water Observations
- Water Temperature: Mid to upper 40's
- Flow Level: 250 CFS
- Water Clarity: Light stain
About Clear Creek Fly Fishing
When all the rivers and streams seem to be overloaded with anglers, Clear Creek always has an empty hole to fish. Clear Creek parallels I-70 from just east of Idaho Springs to Georgetown. Idaho Springs is 32 miles west of Denver. For access to the stream, take exit 240 at Idaho Springs. Turn left, then turn right on old Highway 6. The stream is open to fishing most of its length.
The water can be swift, so care should be taken while wading. a basic 4- or 5-weight outfit is fine, but bring plenty of split shot.