I'm surprised at the lack of enthusiasm...If you are Denver based and had a choice to reach in the same amount of time, what areas would you prefer? St. Vrain, Big Thompson, Clear Creek? Waterton Canyon, Some place else?
Cheesman and 11 mile are both amazing fisheries. Dont listen to the guys here that attempt to put them down. Theyre both definitely worth fishing. I have had AMAZING dry fly days at both. Overall, cheesman is definitely a little harder to fish. But, there have been times at cheesman (especially right before dark) where i caught a fish literally every time i dragged my indicator rig through a lane or pool.(nice fish, too)Sometimes its tough, sometimes its a slaughter. If youre there at the right time with the right stuff, it can be incredible. Ive been there at times when the river literally looks littered with fish. Its crazy how many fish are actually in there. Either way, you cant really go wrong. Id be happy to fish either. Eleven mile is nice cuz you can drive along the whole river. With cheesman, you have to hike into the canyon. For this reason, if youre willing to put in some work and hike back further than most, youll access some BIG fish and get away from the crowds. The further back you go, the less spooky the fish are and the bigger they get. Just make sure you bring some water and a snack.
So, overall, cheesman is definitely more technical but has bigger fish. Eleven mile is a little easier to fish in my mind. Why choose between one or the other? Fish both!