Weekly Report
Note: This will be the last report update that will be provided. We’ve loved every minute of this journey and value the relationships we’ve made and the community that we’ve built but unfortunately, it’s time for us to focus on other priorities. Barring any major changes to flow, the story for Bear Creek will largely be the same as we move through fall. Flows are on the low end but have been stable. For protection and to conserve energy, trout are spending most of their time in deep pools, runs and pockets. A dry dropper with a stimulator, Elk Hair Caddis or Amy’s Ant is our preferred tactic right now. Sub-surface, trout aren’t overly picky. Red Zebra Midges, red Copper Johns, Guide’s Choice Hare’s Ears, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies and Flashback Pheasant Tails are our go-to nymphs for a dry dropper. Aside from dry droppers, BWOs and Griffiths Gnats are bringing trout to the surface during the afternoon and early evening. It may sound funny, but stripping small streamers, such as a Woolly Bugger can be productive on this creek during the fall. Swing your streamer through a deep pool or run and strip it erratically upstream. As overnight temperatures drop, trout are becoming increasingly sluggish during the early morning. As a result, we recommend fishing between 10 am and 4 pm when trout are most active.
Recommended Flies
Subsurface
- Zebra Midge (red/black #18-20)
- Mercury Midge (#18-20)
- Mercury Black Beauty (#18-20)
- Sparkle Wing RS2 (#18-20)
- JuJu Baetis (#18-20)
- San Juan Worm
- Prince Nymph (#16-18)
- Psycho Prince (#16-18)
- Flashback Pheasant Tail (#16-18)
- Rainbow Warrior (#18)
- Guide's Choice Hare's Ear (#14-18)
- Frenchie (#16-18)
- Perdigon (#16-18)
Surface
- Griffiths Gnat (#18-22)
- Parachute Adams (#18-22)
- Amy's Ant (#12-14)
- Chubby Chernobyl (#12-14)
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River Flow
Detailed River Info
Background:
Bear Creek is a small creek that starts in the Mount Evans Wilderness area and eventually feeds into the South Platte in Englewood. Bear Creek flows through the town of Evergreen, Kittredge and Morrison before it dumps into Bear Creek Lake. Only 30 minutes from Denver, Bear Creek is a solid option for anglers looking for a quick trip to scratch the fly fishing itch. While there are many access points, Lair O’ the Bear Park is one of the most popular access points. With that said, there are numerous parks between Lair O’ the Bear and Evergreen that provide easy access and great fishing. Anglers can expect to catch Brown and Rainbow Trout in the 6” – 12” range. If you’re looking for Brook Trout, the Mount Evans Wilderness area will be your best bet. Bear Creek is a freestone creek and therefore is best fished during the summer and fall.
Angling:
If you’re looking for a true mountain creek fishing experience, Bear Creek is a great option for anglers of all experience levels. 3 weight – 5 weight rods will be all that you need and our go-to rig is leading with an Amy’s Ant followed by a size #18 - #22 Prince Nymph, Pheasant Tail or SJ Worm. These trout are eager but can be easy to miss so be ready to set the hook with each cast. Fish the obvious pools and runs but don’t rule out the pocket water. Some of our most productive days come from quickly moving upstream and making 1 – 2 casts to small pockets.
River Access
Bear Creek runs alongside Highway 74 providing for easy access throughout. From Denver, Take Highway 6 or I-70 to C-470. Take the Morrison Exit near Bandimere Speedway. Take Highway 74 west towards Evergreen and stay on this road for roughly 6 miles until you see Lair O’ the Bear Park on your left. Once you park, it’s a short walk to the creek.