River Guide
North Platte River
World-Class Tailwater in Colorado's Sage Country
Location
Jackson County / North Park
Best Season
Year-round (best June–October)
Difficulty
Intermediate
Water
20+ miles of prime tailwater
Overview
The North Platte below Northgate Canyon in Jackson County is one of Colorado's best-kept fly fishing secrets. Fed by consistent releases from Northgate Canyon, this tailwater section offers excellent year-round fishing for large brown and rainbow trout. The wide, braided channels and sage-covered banks give it a distinctly western feel unlike anything else in Northern Colorado.
Access Points
Northgate Canyon Launch
Popular put-in for float fishing. Wade access also available. The canyon section holds some of the largest fish on the river.
Six Mile Gap
Excellent wade access to wide, braided channels. Good for dry-dropper rigs in summer and fall.
State Bridge Area
Lower section with more accessible wading. Lots of riffles and runs holding consistent numbers of fish.
Regulations
Always Verify Current Regulations
Catch-and-release in Gold Medal section. Check CPW North Platte regulations carefully—rules vary by section. Valid Colorado license required.
Fish Species
- Brown Trout
- Rainbow Trout