Rustic Ranch Creek

Discover the beautiful 1.75 miles of Ranch Creek in Fraser, Colorado, perfect for a mountain fishing day trip just under an hour and a half driver from Denver. Accessing this breathtaking meandering mountain meadow stream is easy for most anglers. Anglers will park a short distance from the creek. Once parked anglers will walk down a gentle embankment to the creek. The creek winds through willows for the half to three-quarters of a mile. As you make your way downstream through the property anglers will encounter a few beaver ponds, they’re simple to navigate around or through. The creek returns to its natural meandering path once through the beaver ponds. The creek bed is easy to navigate with stones ranging from 2-6 inches. The creek banks are gentle and most anglers should not find it difficult to step into the creek. Water depth varies from ankle-deep to 6-foot pools depending on the time of year.

While on property anglers will be targeting Brooke, Brown, and Rainbow Trout. For the best experience, anglers will want to come prepared with a 2 to 4 wt rod ranging in length from 6'6" to 8'6". However, if your current quiver only offers up a 9' 5wt you will still have a great day on the water due to open casting lanes. Depending on the time of year this property is great 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

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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 in length from 6'6" to 8'6", if your current quiver only offers up a 9' 5wt you will still have a great day