Ranch Creek Valley Vista

Discover a stunning 2-mile stretch of Ranch Creek in Fraser, Colorado, ideal for a mountain fishing day trip just under an hour and a half drive from Denver. This breathtaking mountain meadow stream is easily accessible for most anglers. You'll park a short distance from the creek and can access it from several downstream locations. The creek lies in the shadow of a bluff on the western bank and a hay meadow on the eastern side. Reaching the upstream boundary requires a bit of effort, but you'll be rewarded. Anglers will find many twists through the property with cutbanks, long runs, numerous riffles, and deep holes. As you near the downstream boundary, you'll encounter a beaver pond in a small canyon-like section, which is easy to navigate around or through. While in this downstream section remember to look up and see a nesting eagle nest. Throughout this property, most anglers will find it easy to navigate with stones ranging from 2 to 6 inches. The gentle creek banks make it easy for most anglers to step into the water. While on the property, anglers can target Brook, Brown, and Rainbow Trout.

For the best experience, come prepared with a 2 to 4 wt rod ranging from 6'6" to 8'6". However, if you only have a 9' 5wt rod, you'll still have a great day on the water thanks to open casting lanes. Depending on the season, this property is perfect for wet wading. Things to keep in mind: Respect Hoot Owl guidelines during the warmer months (Late July and August). Please be off the water around noon or when the temps of the water get above 68 degrees. This is very important to the health of the fishery and to the landowner.

Ponds on the property are off-limits for fishing.

This is an active cattle ranch with about 50 head of cattle roaming the property.

Fishing Details: Species: The creek is home to a variety of fish including brook, brown, and rainbow trout.

Flies: Recommended flies include dry flies such as Elk Hair Caddis, parachute Adams, and various nymphs like Prince Nymphs and Pheasant Tails.

Water Depth: Depth ranges from ankle-deep to 6 feet, varying by season.

The best time to fish Ranch Creek typically depends on a few factors:

Spring (April to June): This is an excellent time for fishing as the water levels are higher from snowmelt, and fish are actively feeding. Spring hatches of insects like mayflies and caddisflies make for productive fishing.

Summer (July to August): Fishing can be great during the cooler parts of the day, especially in the early morning or late evening. Be sure to follow Hoot Owl regulations during warmer months to protect the fishery.

Fall (September to October): Fall offers good fishing opportunities as fish are preparing for the winter and are actively feeding. Cooler temperatures and less fishing pressure make this a favorable time.

Winter (November to March): Winter fishing can be challenging due to colder temperatures and lower water levels. However, if conditions allow, some anglers find success with specific winter tactics. In general, the best time to fish will be early morning or late evening when fish are most active

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Sunrise to Sunset

Don’t forget your local fishing license, you can grab one online here.

Don't forget to check the local river flows.

Please reach out to a local fly shop for the most up-to-date hatch and fly information.

Know the local regulations.

Fishing Season: March to late May (before runoff), September to November. June/July is typically affected by runoff, August may have Hoot Owl Restrictions.

Rod Recommendation: 2 to 4 wt rod ranging from 6'6" to 8'6". However, if you only have a 9' 5wt rod, you'll still have a great day