Fly Fishing - Clear Creek Colorado

A 66-mile long tributary of the South Platte River, Clear Creek is home to native species of Brook, Brown, Rainbow, and Cutthroat Trout. Via a reservoirs Clear Creek even offers lake fishing which can include Kokanee Salmon (landlocked). Historically, Clear Creek was home to a large amount of mining activity during the Colorado Gold Rush remnants of which can still be seen in the towns you'll pass through as well as the hills surrounding the creek. This activity unfortunately damaged much of the fisheries in the creek but it has since bounced back and has become know for its Brown Trout!

While much of the creek is open to public fishing the most anglers target wheelchair accessible Georgetown Lake (west of Idaho Springs) or Clear Creek Canyon (west of Golden). Much of the canyon has a paved path that meanders alongside the river allowing easy access to a variety of features along the way. If you are coming from Golden simply hop onto Route 6. Along the way you will find 3 different parking areas with immediate river access. It's recommended you follow Route 6 until you hit the intersection with State Highway 119. Turn left to remain on Route 6 and you will pass through a tunnel. Just on the other side is a pull off parking area (space is limited) that connects you to the Clear Creek Greenway Trail. From that point you can pick a direction - headed west upstream will have less crowds and more technical fishing, headed east downstream provides nice access points just off the Greenway Trail.

Not sure how to fly fish? Check out this great post by another OP contributor: Getting Started with Fly Fishing