From DTU:
Premier fly fishing event raises funds to support angling access to and conservation of the South Platte River in Denver, Colorado. The Tournament will be held on September 13th, 2025.
DENVER, Colo., September 13th, 2025 – Denver Trout Unlimited (DTU) has unveiled the new format of the 2025 Carp Slam fly fishing tournament. The annual tournament is designed to raise funds for the Denver South Platte (DSP) fishery and users of the river corridor – including cleanup and restoration of the river, protection from industrial waste, and educational programming for local schools and universities.
The 2025 Carp Slam tournament will span approximately 39 miles of river, from Oxford Avenue in the southernmost section, to E470 in the north. 15 teams will fish two sections of the river, with each team switching beats between AM and PM sessions. All participants will contribute to fund raising this year.
Professionals and Amateurs Team Up
A highlight of this tournament is its Pro-AM format. Teams are set in a blind drawing the night before the tournament, during which amateur anglers of varying skill levels are paired with South Platte Slambassadors–ambassadors seasoned in the sport of fly fishing for carp in the DSP. The Pro-Am component serves several purposes: to encourage a deeper understanding of the DSP urban fishery; to foster a keen appreciation for this highly technical fishing challenge; and to nurture friendly camaraderie among the competing teams and anglers.
“In addition to all of the personal fundraising, we’re also proud to team up with some big-name sponsors, said Nic Hall, president of Denver Trout Unlimited. “Brands including Orvis, Abel Reels and Anglers Allhave all joined DTU to support the effort through in-kind or cash donations.”
Impact
Funds raised through CarpSlam directly support Denver Trout Unlimited’s mission to protect and enhance the Denver South Platte River. In 2024, the tournament set a new fundraising record of $60,600, enabling five river cleanup events, supporting Trout in the Classroom programs in 11 local schools, and funding advocacy efforts to combat regulatory changes that could increase industrial pollution. During the 2024 tournament, anglers caught and safely released 39 fish, including 16 common carp, showcasing the river’s vibrant fishery and the skill required to target this challenging species. Carp, often misunderstood, are a vital part of the Denver South Platte’s ecosystem, drawing anglers to this unique urban fishery while fostering community and conservation efforts.
About DTU
Denver Trout Unlimited is the Denver chapter of the national not-for-profit organization, Trout Unlimited. DTU’s mission is to conserve the Denver South Platte River from Chatfield Dam to 120th Avenue. This includes improving the fishery, water quality, river access and fishing opportunities for all. For more information see https://denvertu.com/ and https://carpslam.org/
