The North Fork of the South Platte Fishing Excellent After Denver Water Turns on the Roberts Tunnel!

Fisherman are all smiles after the Denver Water Board began releasing water from the Roberts Tunnel this past week. Currently Denver Water is releasing 100 cfs (to supplement the natural flow of 40 cfs) and the trout are feisty as ever. All of the private leases (The Meadows, Long Meadow, Boxwood Gulch, and the North Fork Ranch) are once again open for business! To book a guided day of fishing on one of these private leases, call the Blue Quill Angler at 303-674-4700. We would be happy to accommodate your needs!

No one knows how long the Roberts Tunnel will remain on. Denver Water will continue to release water as long as there is downstream demand. This can change quickly based on wet weather trends or hot and dry conditions. Currently Denver Water is holding back water on the South Fork of the South Platte to try and keep Cheesman Reservoir full. Currently the water is 100 cfs below Cheesman Reservoir.

According to Chris Wells, Fishing Manager at The Meadows, “The North Fork of the South Platte is fishing excellent right now. The fresh water from the Roberts Tunnel has rejuvenated our fishery.” As long as the flows remain above 100 cfs, and Denver Water supplements flows with Roberts Tunnel water, the river will continue to fish well. Keep your fingers crossed that Denver Water will continue to release water throughout the fall and winter months!

Sean Kennedy fooled this beautiful rainbow on “The Meadows” a few days ago. Red Copper Johns, San Juan Worms, and a variety of midge patterns have been the flies of choice.