Cheesman Canyon in February

Having grandma in town offered Kate and I an opportunity to get out and enjoy the outdoors on a warm February day. Now fly fishing can be tough this time of year in Colorado. Most of the rivers within easy reach of Denver are iced over with the exception of the few tail waters here in the area. Even then most are only open for the first mile or two below the dam. The flows are at their winter low and the water is crystal clear. The only hatches of any consequence are midges and then they are only out for about 3 hours. Needles to say fishing was going to be tough. One of the places I have been wanting to take Kate to was Cheesman Canyon which is only about an hour form our house and offers a nice little hike in up the Gill trail, "fishable" water this time of year and some spectacular Colorado scenery. I say "fishable" because while yes one can go fish it... this is one of the most technical fisheries in the state. Close to Denver and known for big trout... it gets pounded relentlessly.











We decided we would try to fish a little but this was mostly going to be a hiking and photo day since we knew the fishing was going to be pretty tough - and it was. Fortunately we were able to get some great shots to share and we enjoyed an afternoon together taking our rods for a walk in a beautiful place. Here are some of the great pictures we were able to get! I hope you enjoy them!