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Fishing overview
Big-game seasons are at hand for Colorado fishermen, as well as for the
more-traditional hunters.
With arrival of fall, big fish are on the move. Brown trout, mackinaw
and kokanee salmon all are feeling spawning urges. All are becoming
more aggressive, and the season provides opportunities for catching
larger-than-average fish.
Brown trout, common in major rivers across the state, will readily take
streamer flies and many other offerings. The lower Colorado, White,
Yampa, Gunnison and Rio Grande, among others, are noted for brown trout
fishing in late September and October. The South Platte River has
spawning runs of brown trout from Elevenmile Reservoir into the "Dream
Stream" segment up to Spinney Mountain Dam, and from Spinney Mountain
Reservoir upstream as far as the Tomahawk State Wildlife Area above
Hartsel.
Many smaller streams and lakes also provide good late-season fishing
for browns.
Mackinaw, the state’s cold-water heavyweights, spend most of the summer
in very deep water, where they are accessible only by specialized
trolling gear. With the arrival of fall, they move into shallower water
and closer to shore, where they are accessible to fishermen using
standard tackle. Taylor Reservoir, Jefferson Lake, Granby Reservoir,
Blue Mesa Reservoir and Twin Lakes all have good populations of the
lake trout. The Catamount reservoirs on Pikes Peak also have readily
accessible mackinaw, but the area closes for the season on Sept. 30.
Kokanee salmon from Blue Mesa have entered the Gunnison River system,
on their trek to the Roaring Judy hatchery above Almont. Though no
longer feeding, the salmon will take a variety of streamer flies and
bead-head nymphs. In the swift river currents, they offer plenty of
sport for catch-and-release anglers.
The South Platte above Elevenmile Reservoir also has a spawning run of
kokanee. The Colorado Division of Wildlife has a spawn-taking station
on the river, marked by an orange plastic fence. Anglers are asked to
keep out of that area.
Though not spawners, wipers provide another big-game possibility on
many lower-elevation impoundments in eastern Colorado. Gangs of wipers
may attack schools young shad near the surface in late-season feeding
frenzies. Look for surface boils on Pueblo, Lonetree, Nee Gronda, North
Sterling and Jackson reservoirs, among others.
Denver Metro
Arvada Reservoir: Fishing for trout remains fair on Power Bait, salmon
eggs and small spinning lures. Early mornings and late afternoons
usually are the best times to fish this time of year. Some catfish are
being caught from the shore on night crawlers and other traditional
catfish baits. Only electric motors are permitted for boating. Belly
boats may not be used.
Aurora Reservoir: The water temperature is 65 degrees. Trout fishing
from shore is slow to fair. The best area from shore is the east end of
the dam, using Power Bait from a slip rig cast out 40-50 yards. Also,
floating crawlers off the bottom has worked for some. From boats,
fishing is slow to fair for some and good for others, trolling with
night crawlers and Pop Geer or anchoring in 25-35 feet of water and
dropping down crawlers or Power Bait. Walleye action at present is fair
to good using bottom bouncers with crawlers and jigs. However, most are
under the legal size limit. Perch action is slow to fair using jigs.
All other species are slow, or no reports have come in. The limit for
trout is two fish. Boating is restricted to electric motors.
Barr Lake: The water level remains high and the temperature is 74
degrees. The overall fishing has slowed with hot temperatures and the
algae bloom, but should improve as the water cools. Catfish have been
taken in the evening southwest of the boat ramp, and a few walleyes and
wipers have been caught by boating fishermen.
Bear Creek: Fish in the tailwater right below Evergreen. Try drifting a
small Prince Nymph, Pheasant Tail or RS-2 through some of the deeper
holes.
Bear Creek Reservoir: Fishing in the reservoir has been fair. Rainbow
trout have been caught on rainbow Power Bait or worms. Some saugeyes
have been taken on worms.
Berkeley Lake: The 40-acre lake is stocked with catchable-sized trout
in the spring, and the trout provide most of the early season action.
The lake also has largemouth bass, bluegills crappie and channel
catfish, among other warm-water species. Fishing for those improves
later in the season. Boats are not permitted. A recreation center,
playground and other amenities are available on the south side of the
lake.
Centennial Park Lake: The lake is stocked with catchable-sized trout in
the spring. The lake also has a variety of warm-water fish, including
bass, crappie, catfish and perch, which comprise most of the summertime
catch. No boats are allowed on the 15-acre lake. A playground,
restrooms and handicapped-accessible fishing pier are available.
Chatfield Ponds: Buzzbaits and other topwater lures have been producing
some bass. Live minnows also can be effective.
Chatfield Reservoir: The level remains good and the temperature is
around 70 degrees. Walleyes mostly are deep, in 40 feet of water.
Fishing for mostly sublegal-sized smallmouth bass has been fairly good
along the dam face and other structure on crankbaits and tube jigs. The
minimum size for bass at the reservoir is 15 inches. The minimum size
for walleyes is 18 inches, and only one exceeding 21 inches may be kept
daily. Boaters are reminded to watch out for unmarked hazards.
Cherry Creek Reservoir: The water level is normal and the temperature
is in the low 70s. Overall fishing has been a bit slow, but should
improve as the water temperature approaches 60. A few trout have been
taken off the dam face on worms. Night crawlers also have produced some
18- to 20-inch wipers, and an occasional walleye and largemouth bass
has been taken in 5-10 feet of water on olive/white Clouser Minnow and
green sculpin streamers flies. Boating fishermen might try Rapalas or
leech-tipped Lindy Rigs near the dam, and some catfish can be taken
late in the day on traditional catfish baits off the bottom.
Clear Creek (above Hwy. 119): Fish the edges next to main currents with
San Juan worms, Prince Nymphs or black Woolly Buggers. Respect private
property along the creek.
Clear Lake: The lake south of Georgetown off the Guanella Pass road
offers fair to good fishing for catchable-sized rainbow trout. It also
has some brook trout and a few browns. Fishing can be fairly good on a
variety of baits and lures, but success largely depends on periodic
stocking. The north shore often is the best location. No boats are
permitted on the lake.
Evergreen Lake: Try night crawlers or Power Bait around the inlet for
some decent-sized trout. Watch for tiger muskies in the shallows. A
large Rapala or bucktail spinner might tempt one.
Georgetown Lake: Catching trout here usually is little problem, and
regular stocking keeps the fishing good. Use Power Bait, worms or
salmon eggs off the bottom. Fly-bubble outfits also can be effective,
especially in late afternoon. Try a Renegade, Woolly Worm or orange
Asher.
Gross Reservoir: Fishing for trout has been fair. The inlet often is
best, but the dam area also can be productive. Try night crawlers or
small spoons. Watch the shallows for tiger muskies. A large,
shallow-running Rapala might tempt one.
Jim Baker Reservoir: A few trout may be taken on Woolly Worms and
minnows off a bobber. The lake also has smallmouth bass, walleyes,
panfish and tiger muskies. Boats are not allowed. Fishing hours are
sunrise to sunset.
Ketring Park Lake: The 15-acre lake has a variety of mostly small
warm-water fish. The action has been slow. Boats are not allowed.
Main Lake: The fluctuating 45-acre lake has bass up to 18 inches,
crappie, bluegills, catfish and other warm-water species. Fishing has
been slow to fair. Evenings generally have been best. No boats are
allowed on the lake.
Quincy Reservoir: The water temperature is 68 degrees. The water level
is dropping more quickly and will continue to drop over the remainder
of the summer. Trout fishing is slow to fair using Callibaetis patterns
and Hare's Ears. Bass fishing is slow to fair using jigs, spinnerbaits,
crawfish imitations, buzzbaits and surface plugs. Perch action is fair
to good on jigs. Most are on the small side. Quincy Reservoir is
restricted to fishing with artificial flies and lures. Please see the
definition of artificial in the Colorado Division of Wildlife's fishing
regulations booklet. The limit for trout at Quincy is two. Bass must be
at least 18 inches to keep. All boats must be hand launched. Electric
motors only. For more information, call 303-693-5463.
Rocky Mountain Lake: The lake has a variety of warm-water fish
including largemouth bass, panfish and catfish. Trout are stocked in
the springtime, and a few might still be taken off the bottom on Power
Bait. Boats are not allowed. The minimum size for largemouth bass is 15
inches. A playground and restrooms are nearby.
Sloans Lake: Summertime fishing has been slow. An occasional bass may
be taken on plastic worms or night crawlers, and carp offer other
possibilities.
Smith Reservoir: Warm-water fishing has been poor to fair. The 45-acre
lake has crappie, bass, bluegills, catfish and perch. Its largemouth
and smallmouth bass provide potentially good fishing well into the
summer. Early and late in the day tend to be the best times. No boats
are allowed on the lake.
South Platte River (Waterton Canyon): The river has been unusually high
and discolored. The section from Strontia Springs Dam downstream to 300
yards above the Marston diversion structure is restricted to artificial
flies and lures and offers the best fishing. The most effective lures
for spin-fishermen often are small Panther Martins, Mepps or Blue Fox
spinners. Night crawlers usually are the most effective bait in the
unrestricted lower stretch.
Standley Lake: The lake is near capacity and the water temperature has
been around 70 degrees. Trout fishing from the shore has slowed down,
but a few still are caught on Power Bait and salmon eggs early in the
morning. Fishing for bass and walleyes also has slowed with the summer
heat and warm water temperatures. A few are being caught from boats on
a variety of spoons and spinners. Boating season ends Sept. 30. Fall
fishing should pick up in the next few weeks. Winter hours for drive-in
traffic will be 7:00 a.m. to sunset. A $6 fee is required for drive-in
access. Walk-in access is free and is allowed from sunrise to sunset.
Permits for boats under 20 horsepower can still be purchased until
Sept. 30. For more information, contact the Standley Lake Visitor
Center at 303-425-1097.
Washington Park Lakes: Crappie running up to 10 inches, bass, bluegills
and catfish can provide some interesting fishing in an urban-park
setting. Try a small Fle Fly jig or live minnow below a bobber about 3
feet down for crappie during the cool times of the day.
Webster Lake: The lake is stocked with catchable-sized trout in spring
and early summer. Fishing for them usually is good early, but tapers
off during the heat of summer. The lake also has channel catfish, bass,
perch and crappie. Warm-water fishing has been fair in the mornings and
late afternoons. No boats are allowed. A handicapped-access fishing
pier, playground and other facilities are available.
Northeast
Barnes Meadow Reservoir: Fishing pressure has been moderate on the
weekends. Power Baits, salmon eggs and spinning lures including
Kastmasters, Rooster Tails, Mepps, Dardevles and the like, as well as
fly fishing, will work well. No motorized boats are allowed, and please
pack out what you pack in.
Big Creek Lakes: Fishing for catchable-sized rainbow trout has slowed
but remains fairly good on spinners and the typical baits. A few
mackinaw still are taken, but the action has slowed from the early
season. The bag and possession limit for lake trout and splake on Lower
Big Creek Lake is three fish, of which only one can exceed 26 inches.
Big Thompson River: Flows have come down and on Tuesday morning were
51.5 cfs. Caddis and terrestrials are offering the best action. The
best fishing will be early and late. Try No. 16 Elk Hairs and Silveys
Visibles, and Z Wings, Glo Bubbles and Hotwires for nymphs.
Hopper/dropper rigs are a good way to fish the Big T during the heat of
the day. A No. 10-12 hopper and a bead-head can make for some fun
fishing. For spin-fishing, Mepps and Panther Martins will work well. In
the non catch-and-release section, salmon eggs are an ideal bait.
Inquire in Estes Park for more details.
Boedecker Reservoir: The reservoir is subject to dramatic draw downs,
and at present is very low and muddy. A fish salvage from the outlet
after the most recent draw down recovered a number of walleyes, catfish
and crappie that were placed back into the lake. Fishing is poor and
likely to remain that way until additional water comes in.
Boyd Lake: The water temperature has been dropping and the level
appears to have stabilized. Visibility has been about two feet. Fishing
for crappie and bluegills has been quite good around underwater
structure such as channels, points and humps, but rather slow
otherwise. A few white bass and largemouths also have been taken near
structure, and perch and white bass have been taken by trolling. Little
white-bass surface activity has been noted but remains possible.
Trolling for walleyes remains fair, at best. Check the DOW's
regulations booklet for size restrictions on walleyes and largemouth
and smallmouth bass. The Colorado Department of Public Health and
Environment has issued a mercury advisory for large walleyes from the
lake. Call the park office at (970) 669-1739 for additional
information.
Carter Reservoir: The water level is very low and boat launching is
problematic. Trout fishing has been slow. Walleye fishing has been
decent on the east side between Carter Knolls and Dam 1. Walleye
fishing has been best using Flatfish, crawler harnesses and pink
Wedding Rings. Bass fishing has been extremely slow.
Chambers Lake: Fishing for rainbow trout has been productive. The water
level can fluctuate, but at last report was very low and the boat ramp
was not usable. The campground is open. Power Baits, spinners,
Kastmasters and similar lures will work well. Remember, no live minnows
may be used as bait above the 7,000-foot elevation on the Eastern Slope
of Colorado.
Cowdrey Lake: Cowdrey Lake is fishing well. Chironomids and scuds have
been most effective, either slowly stripped with a sinking line or
under an indicator. Lure fishermen should try trolling Needlefish or
Flatfish in the deeper water.
Dixon Reservoir: The fishery appears healthy after some concerns about
winter kill. At last report, the water level had come up, putting some
of the weed beds under water and making fishing easier. Fishing
generally has been slow, however, though some small bass and large carp
might be taken. The temperature is 81-84 degrees and the algae bloom is
in full swing.
Douglas Reservoir: The level is dropping, the water is murky and the
temperature is in the upper 70s. Boat docks are out of the water. At
last report, the ramp still was usable, boaters should check conditions
before attempting to launch. Fishing for small bass, crappie and carp
has been fair. Wiper action is spotty. Trout fishing is marginal, at
best.
Dowdy Lake (Red Feather): Fishing has been slow to fair, but should
improve in the fall. Try Power Bait from shore or casting Kastmasters
and similar lures back toward shore from a boat.
East Delaney Lake: East Delaney is fishing very well. As typical with
the spring and fall seasons, the fish are keyed into Chironomids and
scuds. In the evening, try throwing midge dry patterns to rising fish
along the shoreline. Also, try rigging up a sink-tip line and slowly
stripping or trolling a Woolly Bugger trailed by a scud along the weed
beds. Inquire in Walden for more information. A habitat stamp is
required to use the state wildlife area.
Estes Lake: Fishing for rainbow trout has been fair to good across the
lake. Some larger brown trout have been taken by the inlet. For fly
fishing, try midges in size 18-22 for surface activity in the mornings
and evenings. Try Woolly Buggers, midges, caddis, hoppers, ants and
beetles for cruising fish. For spin fishing, try flashy lures and bait,
especially salmon eggs at the inlet. Fishing around the lake also can
be good with a worm or Power Bait.
Flatiron Reservoir: Flatiron was recently stocked with 1,300 trout.
Worms and Power Bait have been working best.
Hidden Lakes: The road to the lakes is open and U.S. Forest Service
campgrounds are available.
Hohnholz Lakes: Of the three lakes, No. 3 is the largest and has the
largest trout. Fishing on No. 3 is by artificial flies and lures only.
Black Woolly Buggers and gold-colored Kastmasters are among the most
effective. Standard regulations apply to the other lakes.
Horsetooth Reservoir: The water level continues to drop. The current
elevation is 5,386 feet above sea level. The temperature is 65 degrees
and clarity remains generally good. Fishing for smallmouth bass has
been fair. Crankbaits, jerkbaits and topwater shad imitators appear to
be working best. Crawler harnesses, crankbaits, spoons and jigging
spoons also have been suggested. Most fish are being caught at 15-25
feet. Rocks, points and other structure near drop-offs have been the
most productive areas. Fishing for walleyes has been fair. Trout are
starting to bite, as well, with the lowering water temperatures. All
walleyes must be at least 18 inches long, but only one can exceed 21
inches. Smallmouth bass must be at least 12 inches. A good fall bite is
anticipated as water temperatures are falling.
Jackson Reservoir: Fishing is slow to fair for catfish and wipers and
slow for all other species. Some wipers and catfish are being caught in
the outlet using standard baits including crawdad tails, mussels and
worms. A few wipers are being caught from the north side of the boat
ramp using shad lures, Mister Twisters, minnows and worms. No reports
have come in of the fishing from boats. Since nights are getting cooler
and fall is quickly approaching, fishing should begin to pick up soon.
The water temperature has dropped to the low to mid-60s. The water
level is approximately 5 feet down from full and the lake is open to
boating. Water is being released periodically for irrigation purposes.
Joe Wright Reservoir: Grayling are the primary species caught in the
lake, although rainbow and cuttbow trout can be caught, as well.
Fishing for 10- to 12-inch grayling has been good for fly fishermen in
float tubes or other small craft. Prince Nymphs and peacock Woolly
Buggers have been good patterns. The fish have been in deeper water.
Fishing for trout has been slow. The water level is down, and the
temperature is in the mid-50s. The lake has a special regulation that
only artificial flies and lures may be used (no bait fishing). The
daily bag and possession limit is two trout.
Jumbo Reservoir: The reservoir's water level is down, but the east boat
ramp is still in the water. Boaters must use caution as shallow water
hazards are increasing. Fishing success has slowed with the warmer
weather, but healthy rainbow trout are in the reservoir. A habitat
stamp is required to enter Jumbo and Red Lion Annex.
Lake John: Lake John has been fishing well. Hatches of Chironomidae are
the most prolific from now through the rest of the year. If you're a
nymph fisherman, try fishing below an indicator with a three-fly rig.
Go 8-10 feet below an indicator fishing a Chironomid, to a scud, to a
Copper John. Spin-fishermen try Tasmanian Devils, Kastmasters, Rapalas
and Mepps Spinners. Inquire in Walden for the latest.
Laramie River at Hohnholz SWA: The Laramie has a good population of
brown trout, and the wildlife area provides virtually the only public
access to the river. Browns are becoming more aggressive with the
approaching spawning season, and mall (No. 6-10)Woolly Buggers can be
effective. Hopper/dropper rigs still are a good bet, and some BWO
hatches have appeared. Fishermen may use only artificial flies and
lures, and the bag and possession limit is two trout.
Lon Hagler Reservoir: The water level is low. Fishermen have been
taking a fair number of crappie on minnows and jigs. Catfish also have
been active late in the day into the night. Cut shad, stink baits and
chicken livers have been effective. A catfish entry in the DOW Master
Angler Program's released-fish category reportedly weighed an estimated
27 pounds.
Lonetree Reservoir: The water level is low and the boat ramp is barely
in the water. Catfish have provided much of the activity of late, and a
15-pounder recently was taken. Typically, late afternoon into the
evening is the best time. Some nice-sized crappie have been taken
around the northwest corner. Wiper action has been hit-or-miss, but
some boils have been evident in late afternoon. Fishing for walleyes
and bass has been slow. The minimum size for walleyes is 15 inches, and
fishermen may take only one walleye longer than 21 inches per day.
Long Draw Reservoir: The road is open to the lake and campground.
Fishing has picked up and can be exceptional at the right time of day.
No bait fishing is allowed, but spinning lures and artificial flies
will work well.
Lost Lake (at Chambers): Fishing pressure has been high on the
weekends, with some success. The lake has been stocked, and Power
Baits, salmon eggs and worms, as well as various lures, will work well.
The lake has a litter problem, so please pack out what you pack in.
North Delaney Lake: North Lake fishing is good and will only get better
as the browns gear up for their spawn. The best reports are coming from
night fishermen. Throw size 2-4 black and olive leeches. The fish are
fairly deep, at 8-10 feet. As for hatches, look for Chironomidae in the
mornings and evenings. Nymphing with two or three flies, fished 6-10
feet below an indicator, is most productive during the day. The lake is
designated Gold Medal Water, and special regulations apply. Be aware of
the dam closures Sept. 15-Nov. 15; fishing is prohibited within 100
feet of the dam. Fishing is by artificial flies and lures only. The
limit is two trout. Brown trout of 14-20 inches must immediately be
released. Rainbows and cutthroats of 18-22 inches must be returned to
the water.
North Michigan Lake: Fishing is good, with people catching trout on
worms, Power Bait and salmon eggs. Fly fishing above and below the
reservoir also has been very good. Anglers have been most successful
using Woolly Buggers, Prince Nymphs, Pheasant Tails and a variety of
caddis patterns.
North Park Alpine Lakes: The high lakes are fishing well. Nice-sized
cutthroats are being caught on Adams and caddis patterns and on Woolly
Buggers.
North Park Streams: The tributaries in the valley have good water and
great water temperatures. Attractor nymph patterns and bright streamers
have been the most effective lately. Look for the browns to start
spawning soon, so please watch your step as you wade across the river.
North Platte River: The Platte is running around 80-100 cfs, but the
fishing is red-hot. Prolific hatches of Tricos in the mornings and BWOs
are providing some great dry fly fishing. If you don't find rising
fish, hike to deeper water and dredge the depths with stoneflies,
mayfly nymphs and emergers under an indicator. Reports of some action
on streamer flies are increasing, as well.
North Sterling Reservoir: The lake has dropped and the Elks Boat Ramp
is out of the water. The south ramp is still in good shape. Fall
weather has started to cool the water a little, so look for the fishing
to pick up. Wiper fishing is fair to good for the small ones, with a
few 15- to 18-inchers coming out. Try using green mussels and shrimp
along the north or south end of the dam. Catfishing has picked up
around the south bout ramp, with lots of fish in the 2-5 pound range.
Some smallmouth bass in the 12- to 15-inch range have appeared along
the dam. Work lures along the rocks for best results. Crappie are
starting to show up along the dam in the cooler days, but not on the
hot days.
Parvin Lake (Red Feather): Fishermen may use only artificial flies and
lures, and the daily and possession limit is two trout. Using a gold
Kastmaster on the south side should produce some nice browns. A large
Prince Nymph will also do well. Boating is prohibited except for float
tubes used for fishing. A habitat stamp is required to use the state
wildlife area.
Pinewood Reservoir: Pinewood was recently stocked with 1,300 trout.
Fishermans Cove remains the most reliable spot. Worms and green Power
Bait have been working best. Tiger-musky fishing has been decent using
crawler jigs.
Poudre River: The river has been low, clear and fishing well. Flows at
the canyon mouth have been around 55 cfs but upstream, above the
diversion points, the volume tends to be higher. Lower sections of the
river remain in a late-summer mode, with plenty of grasshoppers ants
and other terrestrials on the water. Smaller patterns may be required,
however. Upper reaches offer more fall-like conditions, with
blue-wing-olive hatches and a some lingering Tricos.
Prewitt Reservoir: Water is being let out of the reservoir until Oct.
15, so the boat ramp is out of the water. Boating is difficult — use
care. Fishing for all species is poor. A habitat stamp is required to
enter Prewitt Reservoir.
Ranger Lakes: Ranger Lakes are fishing well, especially the lower lake.
Renegades, Bumblebee flies, Rooster Tail spinners, caddis-pattern
flies, Parachute Adams dry flies (in the evenings), worms, Power Bait
and salmon eggs all have been effective.
Rocky Mountain National Park: Rocky is fishing very well. The Big
Thompson in Moraine is flowing at 17 cfs, and other streams are low but
fishing well. Stoneflies and caddis are the main hatches. For
stoneflies, a No. 16 Yellow Sally is the trick. Elk Hairs, Silvey's
Visible Caddis, Last Calls and Z Wings are good choices for caddis.
Terrestrial fishing has been very good; Hoppers (size 10-12,) beetles
and ants are excellent searching flies for the park. Spin fishing will
take a few fish; go small and dark on your spinners. Check the
regulations before you fish in the park because it has
special-regulations areas and bait fishing is limited to kids in
selected areas. Inquire in Estes Park for more details.
Seeley Lake: Look for bass in fairly shallow water around the weed
beds. A black or white rabbit-hair jig will do the job. The minimum
size for bass is 15 inches. Habitat stamps are required.
Seymour Reservoir: The lake is stocked with catchable-sized rainbow
trout. A variety of baits and spinning lures can be effective. A
habitat stamp is required of everyone visiting the state wildlife area.
Simpson Ponds: These shallow ponds are very weedy, the water is less
than clear and the temperature is around 79 degrees. Fishing generally
has been slow, but some small bass, crappie and bluegills, and an
occasional nice-sized largemouth have been taken. Fishing likely will
improve with cooler weather.
South Delaney Lake: South Delaney is fishing very well. As typical with
the spring and fall seasons, the fish are keyed into Chironomids and
scuds. In the evening, try throwing midge dry fly patterns to rising
fish along the shoreline. Also, try rigging up a sink-tip line and
slowly stripping or trolling a Woolly Bugger trailed by a scud along
the weed beds. Inquire in Walden for more information. A habitat stamp
is required to use the state wildlife area.
St. Vrain River: The Vrain has been running at 47.8 cfs at Lyons.
Caddis and Yellow Sallies are good choices. Size 16 Sallies, Elk-Hair
Caddis, Last Call Caddis and smaller Stimulators will work as dries.
Nymphs to try include Z-wing Caddis, Glo-bubble Caddis and Mangy
Caddis. Terrestrial fishing is good with Hoppers, size 10-12; beetles
and ants. Spinners such as Mepps or Panther Martin also will work well.
Teal and Tiago Lakes: The lakes have been stocked with catchable-sized
trout. Fishing with standard baits and lures has been fair to good
through much of the summer. U.S. Forest Service camping facilities are
open for the season.
Union Reservoir (Calkins): Fishing for channel catfish remains the main
attraction, with some large cats being caught. Minnows, night crawlers
or cut shad have been working the best. Some nice-sized wipers have
been caught, with the largest one recently being 27 inches and 9
pounds. Park hours now are 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. The reservoir is
closed to camping.
Watson Lake: The water level is very good, the temperature is about 72
degrees and visibility is 4-5 feet. Fishing has been a little tough. A
few smallmouth bass have been taken topwater late in the day, and some
sporadic surface activity has been noted at sunset, but the overall
fishing has been slow.
Wellington Reservoir #4: The water level has been dropping. The
temperature is 77-80 degrees, and visibility is about two feet. Fishing
for all species has slowed with the warm weather. Try a worm off the
bottom or a minnow on a bobber.
Northwest
Blue River (below Green Mountain Reservoir): The flow below Green
Mountain Dam on Tuesday morning was 735 cfs. Catch-and-release
provisions went into effect May 1 for the river from Green Mountain Dam
to the Colorado River. The river holds its share of trout, some of
which are quite large, but through much of this section courses through
private property.
Blue River (Dillon to Green Mtn. Res.): Tuesday's flow was 190 cfs. The
Blue in town has had an increase in hatch activity with significant
midday midge hatches. Have some tiny dries in your arsenal, as fish
occasionally have been rising. No particular pattern appears hotter
than the others. Use the stuff listed below, and occasionally throw an
oddball into the mix. Perfect drifts and a stealthy approach are key.
North of town, BWOs have been hatching in good numbers; look for plenty
of risers on cloudy afternoons. Kokanee salmon are making their way
into the river, too. In town, try mysis, JuJuBees, Randy's Baetis,
Brook's Sprouts, #24 Adams, Griffith's Gnats, Miracles, UV Emergers or
Black Beauties North of town, use Sparkle Baetis, Para-Extended Body
BWOs, Parachute Baetis, Slate No Hackles, and Barr's Emergers.
Colorado River (below Parshall): The flow at Parshall, below the
Williams Fork tributary, on Tuesday was 190 cfs. Near Kremmling, below
the Blue River confluence, the volume was 1,010 cfs. Though the flow
and clarity can vary depending on rain and tributary flows, conditions
generally have been good and the river has been fishing well downstream
as far as State Bridge. Caddis remain the primary hatch, though some
BWO activity is possible on overcast days. Grasshoppers and other
terrestrials also have been on the water. Muddler Minnows have been
effective in some of the faster water, and spin fishermen report
results on silver-bladed Mepps spinners.
Colorado River (Glenwood to Rifle): The Colorado River has been flowing
at 3,020 cfs in Glenwood Springs and because of recent rains has been
too discolored to fish effectively. As the river clears, expect the
fishing to be top-notch, with good BWO hatches and exceptional streamer
fishing. Hot flies should include: Stingin' Sculpins, Autumn Splendors,
Ziwis, BLMs, STDs, Princes, San Juan Worms, Flashtail Hot Eggs and
bead-head Pheasant Tails.
Colorado River (near Granby): Flows on Tuesday were 91 cfs below Windy
Gap, 190 cfs below the Williams Fork confluence near Parshall and 1,010
cfs near Kremmling. Several very nice rainbows have been caught and
released on the stretch by the DOW offices. Caddis, blue duns and many
other dry fly patterns have been working, as have the usual wet flies
such as Prince Nymphs, RS-2s and Copper Johns. Hopper action has been
reported. Also, San Juan worms have been getting some action. In the
immediate Granby area and downstream to the bridge at the west end of
Byers Canyon, bait fishing is permitted and two fish may be kept.
Inquire in Granby for the latest conditions.
Crystal River: The Crystal River is flowing at 490 cfs and has been too
discolored to fish effectively because of recent heavy rain showers. As
the river clears, look for good fishing from Redstone down to
Carbondale. Some bruiser brown trout have been moving into the lower
river as the spawn approaches. Typical bead-head nymph patterns will
fish well on the Crystal, as will large dries such as Stimis, Wulffs
and caddis patterns.
Elk River: Though recent rains have discolored the water, the Elk has
been fishing well, both on the Christina State Wildlife Area and the
upper river. Cooler night might have put a damper on terrestrials, but
nymphing should remain productive.
Elkhead Reservoir: The reservoir is open after a two-year draw down for
dam reconstruction. Access for fishing and day use will be allowed this
summer, with camping and other activities coming on line as
construction is completed. The lake recently was stocked with
catchable-sized trout and smallmouth bass. Fishing is picking up as the
water clears. The fish are concentrated, so please be aware of how
sensitive this new fishery is.
Fryingpan River: The Frying Pan is clear throughout, with flows
recently having been dropped to 164 cfs. This flow is providing some of
the year's best dry fly fishing, with heavy hatches that include green
drakes, PMDs and BWOs. The best fishing has been midday, from 11 a.m.
to 3 p.m. Be sure to fish with light fluorocarbon tippets of 6X and 7X
to be successful. Hot flies include: Sparkledun Drakes, Flavs PMDs,
STDs, PTs, RS-2s, Epoxy Mysis, CDC Loopwing BWOs and Barr's Emergers.
Granby Reservoir: Recent rain and light snow are expected to cool the
water and improve fishing. Salmon have shown little evidence of the
spawning run and still are being taken by trolling Arnie and Needlefish
spoons in 15 feet of water at the mouth of Columbine Bay. The bay from
the Twin Creek inlet upstream to Shadow Mountain Reservoir will close
to fishing on Oct. 1. Stream inlets flowing into the lake remain prime
areas. Spinners, Rapalas, slip-bobber rigs and bottom-fishing
techniques all produce fish. Trolling with downriggers for mackinaw
still is producing some fish in approximately 30 feet of water. Some
very nice rainbows have been landed in the early morning and late
evening hours in shallower water. Inquire in Granby for the latest
conditions.
Grand Lake: Consistent fishing on this deep, natural lake requires some
learning and experience, but can be highly rewarding. As the weather
cools and water temperatures drop, fishing will improve. Spinners,
Rapalas, vertical jigging, fly fishing, trolling and bait fishing all
can produce brown and rainbow trout, large lake trout and kokanee. Boat
access between Grand Lake and Shadow Mountain Reservoir is possible.
The water level of this lake remains constant. Fishing off the public
dock area and in the channel between the lakes remains good. Trolling
also is productive. Inquire in Granby for updates.
Green Mountain Reservoir: The lake level is dropping. Trout are
becoming more active and are being caught on night crawlers. The salmon
run has started and the snagging season has begun.
Green River: No current reports are available. The Green, in the
extreme northwest corner of Colorado, remains open the year-around,
with some of the best fishing in early April and May, when spawning
rainbows and cutthroats begin to feed aggressively. Bead-head nymphs,
stonefly patterns and midge imitations all can be effective. Fishing
usually slows down with warming water in the summer but picks up again
in the fall, when brown trout become active.
Harvey Gap Reservoir: The water levels are lower this week, but boaters
still have been able to launch. Catfish have been biting on the north
shore after dusk. A few reports of bass being caught in the shallows on
spinners have come in. The crappie are still being caught but are not
as active at this time. The northern pike have been reported as being
active near the shallows on the north end of the reservoir.
Highline Lake: Bass fishing is pretty slow, but catfishing is hot, with
1- to 5-pound channel cats being caught. Crappie fishing still is good
on jigs of all colors. The water temperature is 72.5 degrees.
Highline's water level is still at capacity and will be for the rest of
the summer. Both boat ramps are open. Use caution on the east ramp
because of a build-up of silt and debris from the inlet. The lake will
be closed to boating starting Oct. 1 to provide a resting area for
migratory waterfowl. Beginning Oct. 1, waterfowl hunting will be
permitted Monday through Friday.
Jerry Creek Reservoirs: The Mesa County reservoirs near Molina have
closed to public access for dam and spillway reconstruction. They are
to reopen on June 1, 2008.
Lake Avery: Fishing has slowed from the early season but bait fishermen
still are catching their share of trout. Power Bait and worms have been
effective. Trolling with a variety of Dardevle-type lures also has been
taking fish.
Mack Mesa Lake: The water temperature is 70 degrees. Fishing still is
slow. Additional trout are to be stocked sometime this month. Mack Mesa
is restricted to hand-propelled craft or boats with small, electric
trolling motors. Don't forget your PFDs if you are fishing from a boat.
Muddy Creek: Flows below Wolford Mountain Reservoir have come down and
on Tuesday morning were 21 cfs. Conditions are tougher, but fly
fishermen still might do OK on small nymphs and midge patterns.
Pearl Lake: Pearl Lake fishing is by artificial flies and lures only.
The bag limit is two fish over 18 inches. Crawdad imitations seem to be
producing some success. Early morning hours and late evenings usually
see more action. Fall fishing typically is good. Trolling with Renegade
streamers is one suggestion for the fall.
Rifle Gap Reservoir: Due to low water levels, the boat docks have been
taken out and very little ramp is available. Please use extreme caution
when launching boats. Northern pike up to 42 inches reportedly are
being caught near the dam, mostly from boats on deep-running lures. The
large perch have been reported as most active right before dawn or
right after dusk. Perch and trout have been caught using small pieces
of worm. A brown trout weighing 12 pounds recently was caught. Walleyes
have been reported in the shallows between the Cottonwood and Cedar
campgrounds.
Rio Blanco Lake: Few fishermen have been on the water. With cooler
weather reducing the weed growth, fishing for hammer-handle northern
pike usually improves. The lake also has crappie, bass and channel
catfish.
Roaring Fork River: The Roaring Fork has been clear above Carbondale
and fishing well with predominantly smaller (No. 18-22) BWO and midge
patterns. General attractor nymphs like Princes and Pheasant Tails are
fishing well as searching patterns. Below Carbondale, look for the
river to clear in the next day or two, and when it does, count on some
exceptional streamer fishing opportunities. Recent river flows have
been 574 cfs in Basalt and 3,020 cfs in Glenwood Springs.
Shadow Mountain Reservoir: Pumping through the canal continues, making
the canal and the area where it dumps into the reservoir prime fishing
areas. Kokanee activity remains day-to-day. While a few have been
porpoising, they are not yet running in the canal. Worms, artificial
baits and salmon eggs fished on the bottom have been productive.
Slip-bobber rigs work very well, also. Spinners, Rapalas and other
lures work in the main reservoir. Fishing below Shadow Mountain Dam has
been going well, but that area will close to fishing on Oct. 1. Sow
bugs, nymphs and caddis patterns have been doing well for fly
fishermen. Lures and bait also are productive. Brown trout are
plentiful in this area, but the big run of kokanee has not yet started.
Inquire in Granby for the latest conditions.
Stagecoach Reservoir: Trout fishing is picking up. The water is cooling
off, so fish are being caught across the lake on Power Bait, worms,
Rooster Tails, Kastmasters, Dardevles, Panther Martins and other small
spinners. Northern pike are also good now because of the cooler water.
They have moved up into the 5- to 15-foot range. Flashy spinners and
tube jigs bouncing off the bottom are producing fish. More and more
fishermen report getting close to their limits, and larger pike being
caught. In the tailwaters, trout fishing still is very good. The water
flow is down, but using small (No. 18-22) midge patterns, scuds, RS-2s,
Copper Johns, red San Juan worms and nymphs will produce some fish. Dry
fly fishing is also producing some larger fish. For more information,
visit www.parks.state.co.us
Steamboat Lake: Fishing remains slow. With fall and cooler weather
here, fishing should pick up. Bait fishermen will do well with Power
Bait. Renegade patterns may bring success to fly fishermen. Dark Woolly
Buggers also work well in the fall. Nice-size fish continue to be taken
out of the lake.
Sylvan Lake: Fishing at Sylvan Lake is excellent. Rainbow, brown and
brook trout are biting on worms, Power Bait, spinners and flies. The
lake recently was stocked with 1,875 rainbows.
Trappers Lake: Fall fishing for cutthroat trout typically is fair to
good, and continues into the early big-game rifle-hunting seasons.
Renegades, muskrat nymphs, Parachute Adams and Pheasant Tails are
effective fly patterns. Spin fishermen can take trout on a variety of
Dardevle-type spoons and spinners. The lake is an outstanding fishery
for naturally reproducing cutthroat trout. Fishermen may use only
artificial flies or lures. The limit on cutthroats is two fish. All
cutts longer than 11 inches must immediately be returned to the water
alive. Fishermen are encouraged to keep all the brook trout they catch.
Vega Reservoir: Fishing at Vega is excellent. Water levels continue to
drop. Anglers have been having luck with worms, salmon eggs, silver
spinners and Panther Martins. The boat ramp on the island is the only
one open at this time. Daytime temperatures are reaching the mid-70s,
with lows in the mid-40s to high 30s at night. Color is starting to
appear around the lake and fall is quickly approaching.
White River: Recent rains and snow might have temporarily discolored
the water, but conditions should quickly improve. Cooler nights have
curtailed the hopper activity, but fishing with bead-head nymphs
remains fairly good. As the fall progresses, fishing for brown trout
usually is good with Muddler Minnows and black Woolly Buggers.
Otherwise, midges are the main fall hatch.
Williams Fork Reservoir: The lake level remains good, and fishing has
been fairly good. Trolling for kokanee salmon of 3-4 pounds in 30 feet
of water has been productive recently. Fishing for rainbow trout has
been fair, and a few mackinaw have been taken from deeper water. The
reservoir also has some large northern pike that might remain in
shallow water well into the fall. Large streamer flies, spinnerbaits
and crankbaits are suggested.
Williams Fork River: The flow below Williams Fork Reservoir has come
down, and on Tuesday morning was 78 cfs. Look for mixed hatches of
midges, caddis, and blue-wing-olive, pale-morning-dun and red quill
mayflies. Effective fly patterns generally are small, size 18-22.
Willow Creek Reservoir: Shoreline fishermen are reporting some success
for trout, and trolling has been good. This is a beautiful area with a
very nice campground and easy fishing access. Boating is encouraged,
but it is a no-wake reservoir. It generally gets less fishing pressure
than other area lakes. Worms, Power Bait and salmon eggs are commonly
used, as well as spinners, spoons and crankbaits. Silver has been a
good color in all types of lures. Fly fishing is productive. Cooler
weather will increase fish feeding activity. Inquire in Granby for
updates.
Wolford Reservoir: The level is dropping and is down approximately 6
feet. Fishing is starting to pick up again. Rainbow trout are being
caught from the banks on rainbow Power Bait and night crawlers. Boaters
are doing well trolling with Needlefish, Rapalas and night crawlers.
Rainbow fishing has been best toward the north inlet, and kokanee are
being taken south of the main boat ramp.
Yampa River (Hayden through Craig): The river has come up slightly over
the past week, and with cooler water temperatures the fishing should
pick up, as well. Try fishing late evening or very early morning. Focus
on deeper water and riffle runs. Yampa River State Park will have
walk-wade access, but floating will be restricted until water levels
allow legal access. Fishermen should be very aware of stress on fish
due to high temperatures and low oxygen levels. Contact Yampa River
State Park for more information.
Yampa River (Stagecoach through Steamboat): Recent heavy rains improved
the flow but have temporarily discolored the water. Frost may have
curtailed hopper activity, but fish still are likely to come up for
terrestrial patterns. Blue-wing-olive mayflies are the primary hatch. A
scattering of mahoganies — large brown mayflies — still may be evident,
and streamer flies also are becoming more effective.
Southeast
Adobe Creek Res. (Blue Lake): Only one of the high-water boat ramps
still is in service; the other is silted in. Lake levels are declining
because of evaporation and irrigation releases. A few nice-sized
catfish have been caught recently but overall, fishing has been slow.
Antero Reservoir: The action has slowed from the opening rush, but
anglers still are catching nice-sized trout. Fishing with flies or
hardware along weed lines has been productive. The daily bag and
possession limit is two trout of any size, a change from the earlier
limit of four fish, of which only one could exceed 16 inches. The
change went into effect on Aug. 13 and will be reviewed after 90 days.
Fishermen are asked to take some care with fish to be released. Don't
play them to exhaustion; use heavier fly lines and tippets and
stiffer-action spinning rods. Handle fish as little as possible; keep
them in the water and take time to adequately revive them before
release. The reservoir was drained in 2002. It has refilled and been
stocked with rainbow, brown, brook, cutthroat trout and splake.
Anticline Lake: Fishing has been slow. Additional stocking of trout
before September is unlikely because of high, summertime water
temperatures. Most of the typical baits and lures are effective here
then, but success usually depends on periodic stocking.
Arkansas River #3 (Through Pueblo): The flow below the dam on Tuesday
was 202 cfs, after a weekend surge of higher water. Fish generally
still are concentrated in clearer water near the banks and in pocket
water. Fish a No. 12 bead-head Prince Nymph, and use a San Juan Worm as
the dropped fly. Black or olive Woolly Buggers fished in the deeper
water will be effective. Habitat improvements have created deeper pools
and structure for the fish to thrive in even when releases from Pueblo
Dam are minimal. Standard fishing regulations and limits are in effect
on this section of the river.
Arkansas River (Buena Vista to Salida): Sunday's flows were 409 cfs in
Browns Canyon and 452 at Wellsville, with good visibility.
Blue-wing-olive mayflies continue to hatch, and some dark caddis are
bringing fish to the surface late in the day. Look for good hatches
this week with cloud cover in the weather forecast.
Arkansas River (Leadville to Buena Vista): Flows on Sunday were 188 cfs
at Granite and 244 cfs above Buena Vista, with good visibility.
Blue-wing-olives have been hatching regularly on the upper river on
cloudy days. Otherwise, attractor nymphs followed by blue-wing-olive
emergers have been doing well subsurface.
Arkansas River (Salida to Canon City): Flows this weekend were 452 cfs
at Wellsville and 464 cfs at Parkdale, with good visibility. Cloudy
skies have brought on some great blue-wing-olive hatches, and dark
caddis have been active in the evenings.
Beckwith Reservoir: Fishing for 10- to 12-inch rainbow trout has been
poor. The lake also has largemouth bass, crappie and bluegills, which
comprise most of the catch. Boaters have access near the south end of
the dam. Only electric motors may be used.
Blue and Bear Lakes: The popular small lakes southwest of La Veta offer
fishing primarily for catchable-size rainbow trout. Fishing success
largely depends on periodic stocking.
Bonny Reservoir: A few catfish are still being caught on the north side
and the dam face with the typical baits. Not much other action is
occurring. The lake is 23 feet below the full mark. Boat access is
difficult. A few smaller (12- to 14-foot) boats have been basically
hand launched and carried 50 yards to access the main lake.
Brush Hollow Reservoir: Fishing for trout has been slow through the
heat of summer, but fishing for catfish has picked up in the evenings.
Fishing for warm-water species that include largemouth bass, walleyes,
crappie and bluegills remains fair. The water level had started to
drop, but recent heavy rains have filled the reservoir. Wakeless
boating is permitted. A habitat stamp is required to use the state
wildlife area. A mercury advisory by the Colorado Department of Public
Health is in effect for walleyes of a certain size.
Catamount Reservoirs, North & South: Fishing for rainbow trout and
small mackinaw has improved with cooler weather, but the area will
close for the season at 4 p.m. on Sept. 30. Anglers have taken trout on
Woolly Buggers, Prince Nymphs, Copper Johns and assorted spinning
lures, including Kastmasters, Little Cleos and Dardevles. On South Cat,
where bait fishing is permitted, salmon eggs and yellow Power Bait have
been effective. Fishermen may use only artificial flies and lures on
North Catamount. Access to both is from the Pikes Peak Highway and
requires paying a fee.
Cheesman Reservoir: The Goose Creek arm of the reservoir has reopened
to fishing after a five-year closure following the Hayman fire. Fishing
has been on the slow side, possibly because of the pressure along a
relatively small portion of the shoreline. Smallmouth bass have
comprised much of the catch, with a few brown and rainbow trout taken
near the Goose Creek inlet. The lake has rainbow and brown trout,
smallmouth bass, northern pike and yellow perch, and recently was
restocked with fingerling kokanee salmon.
Clear Creek Reservoir: The drawn-down lake is closed to all public
access until maintenance work on the dam is complete. The DOW will
assess conditions by mid-December to determine if ice fishing will be
available then.
Cottonwood Lake: Fishing remains fair to good on night crawlers, salmon
eggs and rainbow Power Bait. Super Dupers, Thomas Buoyants and Z-Rays
have been effective lures. Various types of flies have been productive
in the evenings. High lakes in the vicinity are open and fishing for
mostly cutthroat trout has been fair, primarily on small lures and
flies.
Crystal Creek Reservoir: Fishing for catchable-sized trout remains fair
on a variety of baits and lures. Power Bait, salmon eggs and worms all
have been taking some fish. Kastmasters, Dardevles and Panther Martin
spinners have been effective lures. The reservoir is part of the North
Slope Recreation Area. Access requires paying a fee at the Pikes Peak
Highway tollgate. The area will close for the season on Sept. 30.
Daigre Reservoir: While the fishing pressure has been light, anglers
still are doing OK on a variety of fly patterns. Small spinning lures
also can be effective. Fishermen may use only artificial flies and
lures at the lake.
DeWeese Reservoir: Trolling with cow bells or lures remains the most
productive. Shore fishermen have been catching fish on lures, rainbow
and green Power Bait, marshmallows, Fireballs and worms. Most trout are
around 12 inches, with some up to 16-17. The lake also has abundant
smallmouth bass, mostly of 6-12 inches but with a few up to 16.
Elevenmile Reservoir: Overall trout-fishing success is good. With
recent stocking, fishermen are doing well along the coves near the
marina. The best reports are coming from shoreline fishermen along the
south side of the reservoir. Worms combined with marshmallows, various
Power Baits and assorted spinners seem to be working the best. Trout
that have been caught recently are ranging from 12- to 22-plus inches.
Water temperatures are beginning to decline. Kokanee fishing has picked
up for boaters. Northern pike fishing is great. The bag and possession
limit is 10 kokanee salmon and four trout, of which only two can be 16
inches or longer. No limit applies to northern pike. Boating is
permitted daily from 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset.
Fountain Lake: Like other urban lakes in Pueblo, this one is stocked
most months the year, but not through the heat of summer. Trout fishing
typically is good in the spring, usually slows down during the summer
months, but picks up in the fall. The lake also has some catfish that
can grow quite large.
Hayden Meadows Reservoir: The lake south of Leadville offers fair to
good fishing for catchable-sized trout. Various lures and worms have
been most effective in recent days, with the best activity early and
late in the day. Fly fishing usually is good late in the afternoon into
the evening.
Horseshoe Reservoir: The water level is good and the temperature is in
the high 70s to low 80s. Trout fishing has slowed down. Fishing for
warm-water species has been good. Worms and Power Bait are a couple of
popular items to use. Fishing for catfish still is good, especially in
late evenings using water dogs. The boat dock is in place on the north
side of Horseshoe. Call the park office at (719) 738-2376 for current
conditions.
Huerfano River: The main public access to the primarily brown trout
fishery is on the Huerfano State Wildlife Area southwest of Gardner.
Fishing can be quite good, but conditions are very brushy. The upper
river, from the national forest boundary to the headwaters, has a
flies-and-lures restriction and a two-fish limit.
Jefferson Lake: Fishing for rainbow trout from the shore has been good.
Night crawlers, salmon eggs and pink Power Bait have been the best
baits. Lure fishermen have been doing well on chrome-and-green or
chrome-and-orange Kastmasters and fluorescent Tasmanian Devils. Lake
trout are moving into shallow water. Some have been taken in 5 feet of
water. Many are 1-5 pounds, but some larger ones also have been taken.
Night crawlers and crankbaits have been effective. Campground and road
traffic has been relatively light.
John Martin Reservoir: John Martin Reservoir still contains more than
30,000 acre feet. The water temperature is around 68 degrees. Most of
the fishing action is in the form of catfish in the spillway, biting on
stink bait. No report is available for the reservoir proper.
Karval and Kinney lakes: Kinney has been producing a few small catfish,
but few fishermen have been on the water and the overall fishing
appears pretty slow. Trout stocking of both lakes and the nearby Hugo
SWA ponds has been suspended for the summer. All also have most of the
common warm-water species. Deer flies can be a nuisance this time of
year.
Lake Henry: The water level at Henry is good. Fishing for all species
is slow.
Lake Meredith: Water conditions at Meredith have improved, thanks to
the addition of stored irrigation water, and water levels are in good
shape. Fishing for all species is slow. This is the third year since
the lake was restocked, after having been drained. Fish should be
approaching catchable size. Crappie, saugeyes, catfish and wipers have
been stocked in good numbers since the lake was refilled.
Manitou Lake: The popular U.S. Forest Service lake north of Woodland
Park is heavily stocked with catchable-sized trout through the summer.
Fishing success largely depends on the stocking. Weekdays are less
crowded. The water level is good, but some weed growth can hamper
fishing. Payment of an entry fee is required. Campgrounds and other
amenities are nearby.
Martin Lake: The water level is good. Fishing for trout is fair; a few
still are being caught. The lake has been stocked several times, and
the kids' pond also has been stocked with trout. The water temperature
is in the low 80s. Some catfish and bass have been caught. Northern
pike also are active. Baits that are being used are worms, Power Bait,
minnows and water dogs. Call the park office at (719)738-2376 for
current conditions.
Montgomery Reservoir: The lake near Hoosier Pass offers fair to good
fishing for catchable-size rainbow trout and a handful of brook and
brown trout. Success usually depends on periodic stocking. Fishing is
prohibited on the south side of the reservoir and from the west face of
the dam. The lake is closed to fishing Dec. 1-May 31.
Monument Lake: This 40-acre lake filled last year and has provided good
fishing for catchable-sized trout in 2007. The standard assortment of
baits and lures has been effective. The level remains high and the
water has been somewhat discolored. Trout stocking has been suspended
until water temperatures cool. Warm-water fish have been stocked as
part of rebuilding the fishery but will not be large enough to interest
fishermen for another year or two.
Monument Reservoir: Shoreline fishing for rainbow and brown trout has
been good on Power Bait, and many fly patterns also have been taking
fish. Likely patterns include black gnats, mosquitoes, Royal Coachmen
and gray-hackle yellows. Live minnows may not be used at bait in
Eastern Slope waters above 7,000 feet in elevation and on virtually the
entire Western Slope.
Nee Gronda Reservoir: Boat access is available with the completion of a
new low-water ramp on the east side. Small- to medium-sized boats (16
feet or less) are recommended on this ramp. Fishing is slow for most
species. Typically, midsummer fishing is slow. As fall approaches and
water temperatures cool, fishing should improve, especially during
morning and evening hours. Anglers should watch for surface-feeding
schools of wipers this time of year. Fishing can be fast and furious
for those who can find the surface action.
Nee Noshe Reservoir: Nee Noshe is very low, at less than 500 acres. The
boat ramp extension was completed before Labor Day, and the ramp is in
service. The ramp is recommended for small- to medium-sized boats (16
feet or less). Fishing is very good for wipers and white bass, and fair
for saugeyes. Anglers are catching nice creels of wipers by trolling
jigs and crankbaits; bank fishermen are having success with worms and
shrimp.
Nichols Reservoir: Fishing for pan-sized trout has slowed somewhat but
should improve with recent stocking. Nichols is accessed by a hiking
trail leading down from the Rampart Reservoir dam. The reservoir is
heavily stocked with catchable-sized trout and offers
better-than-average fishing through the summer.
North Lake: Fishing for mostly rainbow trout has been excellent on a
variety of flies. Productive patterns have included emergers,
mosquitoes, Royal Coachmen, red Humpies, black gnats, gray-hackle
yellows and Royal Wulffs. Red-and-white lures and silver Kastmasters
also have been effective. The lake also has an improving population of
splake. Fishermen may use only artificial flies and lures at North
Lake. Habitat stamps are required of all visitors to the state wildlife
area, unless excluded by age or disability.
OHaver Reservoir: Fall has arrived, aspens around the lake are turning
and nights are cold. Fishing for rainbow trout has been quite good on
worms and Power Bait, and fishing pressure has been light.
Palmer Lake: The water level has been very low the past few years, but
has recovered somewhat this summer with abundant rain. However, very
few fish are available. Trout may be stocked when water temperatures
cool off later this summer or in the fall.
Pikeview Reservoir: Fishing generally has been slow. Fishermen have
been catching a few saugeyes and catfish. This Colorado Springs city
lake is a developing warm-water fishery with a variety of species
present, including some decent-sized saugeyes. Construction work is
complete, and a paved, designated off-street parking area is available.
Sidewalks have been poured along the east and south shorelines. Other
amenities include a wheelchair-accessible sidewalk to one of two
fishing piers and enclosed pit toilets.
Prospect Lake: The lake in Colorado Springs was refilled in 2006 and
was stocked with fingerling crappie, channel catfish, saugeyes and
wipers. Anglers should expect the rebuilding of this fishery to yield
better size on warm-water fish by 2008 and 2009. Catchable-sized
rainbow and Snake River cutthroat trout were stocked last spring. Trout
stocking has been suspended because of warm water temperatures but will
resume in the fall when temperatures cool. Summertime fishing has been
slow, with fishermen catching a few trout and some small wipers and
catfish.
Pueblo Reservoir: Fishing for catfish has been fairly good, with some
nice-sized fish taken on hot dogs as well as the traditional baits. The
north marina cove has been as good as any. Fishing for walleyes and
wipers has improved with cooler weather. Jigging and crawler harnesses
have been the best techniques and early mornings the best time. Bass of
12-13 inches have been hitting a variety of surface poppers and
soft-plastics. The level is the best in recent years and clarity is
good. Walleye numbers remain high, but most are not legal-sized. Wipers
are stable, with many in the 15- to 22-inch range. Smallmouth and
spotted bass are doing very well, and largemouths have been increasing
with higher water. Catfish numbers are low to moderate but many are
good-sized.
Quail Lake: The overall summertime fishing has been slow, but anglers
have been getting some small perch and an occasional northern pike. The
Colorado Springs city lake is stocked with catchable-size trout into
early summer, but with rising water temperatures stocking is suspended
until the fall. The lake also has a variety of warm-water fish,
including largemouth bass, catfish and bluegills.
Queens Reservoirs: Upper and Lower Queens reservoirs are dry.
Rampart Reservoir: Fishing for decent-sized rainbow trout and an
occasional mackinaw has been fair. Mornings and late afternoons have
been the best times. Water levels are good. The lake is heavily stocked
with rainbow trout and also has mackinaw. Fishing for mackinaw from
shore is especially good soon after ice-out, but during the summer heat
anglers should fish deeper, along drop-offs from 40 to 60 feet deep.
Access to the boat ramp requires crossing the dam and can be affected
by Homeland Security considerations. In general, it is available from
mid-May to early October, but restrictions apply to some types of
vehicles. Recreation facilities are managed by a U.S. Forest Service
concessionaire and entry requires payment of a fee.
Runyon Lake: This is one of several Pueblo-area lakes stocked through
much of the year. The lake recently was stocked with catchable-sized
trout, but additional plants before September are unlikely because of
high water temperatures. The lake also has some catfish that can grow
to impressive size.
Skaguay Reservoir: Fishing for catchable-sized trout from the bank has
been good with green Power Bait. The water level remains good after
several years of drought and likely will remain that way through the
summer. The lake also has some northern pike up to 40 inches, and
anglers are encouraged to keep all the pike they catch. The inlet area
offers the best pike habitat. Facilities include a boat ramp. Wakeless
boating is mandatory and a habitat stamp is required. The creek below
the dam offers fishing for brown trout.
South Platte River (btwn Spinney and Elevenmile): Flows have been
steady, and on Tuesday morning were 91.7 cfs. Trico hatches still are
evident, but the fishing has been tough. Look for kokanee salmon and
brown trout from Elevenmile Reservoir to be entering the river soon,
but as of Monday the major runs were not yet under way. Fishermen may
use only artificial flies and lures on the stream, and
catch-and-release rules apply for all species of fish. As usual, this
area attracts large crowds.
South Platte River, Deckers area: The volume below Cheesman Dam on
Tuesday morning was 494 cfs. The water through Cheesman Canyon has been
clear, but below Deckers, clarity still can be an issue. In the canyon,
fish are in the riffles and faster runs. Blue-wing-olive mayflies may
appear on overcast days. Midge activity also is possible. A small nymph
or midge emerger trailing a San Juan worm or larger Pheasant Tail can
be an effective rig.
South Platte River, Elevenmile Canyon: Flows remain significantly below
what they have been most of the summer at approximately 56 cfs.
However, the dry fly fishing remains very good. Blue-wing-olives still
come off at 8 a.m., followed by Tricos soon afterward. Dry fly fishing
can be good until noon or 1 p.m. With the low flow, weed growth makes
nymphing difficult. Standard dry fly patterns such as Parachute Adams
and down-winged Trico spinners in sizes 20-22 are appropriate for the
hatches but the fish are very picky, so have more than one type/size of
each pattern. For instance, it's good to have some poly-winged Trico
spinners as well as some CDC down-wings in sizes 20, 22 and even 24.
You will have to be patient and try each variation to get the fish to
eat. This can be the best time of year to fish, so get on out there.
Spinney Mountain Reservoir: Spinney fishing is good. Fishing at Spinney
is by artificial flies and lures only, with a bag and possession limit
of one trout at least 20 inches long. Midges, Callibaetis mayflies and
damselflies have been evident on the water. The surface water
temperature is in the low 60s. Both boat ramps are open. Fishing has
been good throughout the day, with average trout catches in the 16- to
22-inch range. The most successful flies have been various nymphs,
midges, scud patterns and streamers. As usual, tube jigs and lures also
are productive. This is a day use park, opening 1/2 hour before sunrise
and closing one hour after sunset. Boating is permitted daily from 1/2
hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset.
Tarryall Reservoir: Though trout remain finicky, fishing has been
improving. Night crawlers, salmon eggs and Yellow Power Bait all have
been effective. Kastmasters and Tasmanian Devils have worked well for
lure fishermen. Northern pike also have been prowling the region and
can be taken on streamer flies and crankbaits. The lake has rainbow and
Snake River cutthroat trout in the 11- to 16-inch range and an
occasional larger brown. Its northern pike have been growing in size
and turning up in the catch more frequently. Anglers are encouraged to
keep all the pike they catch. Wakeless boating is permitted. A habitat
stamp is required of all visitors to the state wildlife area.
Trinidad Reservoir: Trinidad Lake is at approximately 700 surface
acres. The surface temperature is about 70 degrees, with subsurface
temperatures around 60-65. Fishing has been really good with the cooler
temperatures. Trout fishing is excellent from shore and boats. Catfish
are good. Bass are fair, with a few over the minimum length being
caught. Some legal-sized walleyes have been caught from shore and
boats, with several short walleyes still being caught from shore.
Wipers and crappie have been slow. Perch have been good. Anglers are
reminded to check for special limits on bass and walleyes at Trinidad
Lake. Boaters use caution as the lake level drops because floating
debris is in the lake and other hazards are appearing.
Turks Pond: Well repairs have helped improve the water level at Turks
Pond. A new boat ramp extension was added last summer. Fishing is fair
for catfish and good to excellent for wipers. A 17-pound wiper
reportedly was caught recently. Turks Pond has a good population of
large wipers. Belly boaters and rowboats are having the most success,
but shore anglers are catching wipers and catfish on chicken livers.
Turquoise Lake: The reservoir remains almost full. Fishing is in a
summer slowdown, typical of large reservoirs, but has improved a bit
with stocking from the Leadville National Hatchery. Night crawlers,
salmon eggs and Power Bait all have been taking some fish. The inlet
and Tabor boat ramp areas appear to be best. Mackinaw have moved into
deeper water. Large crankbaits, spoon-type lures and sucker-tipped
Gitzits still might take a few. The bag and possession limit is two
lake trout. Two boat ramps and U.S. Forest Service camping facilities
are available.
Twin Lakes: The water level has started to come down. Fishing for
rainbow trout from the shore has been poor to fair, with the lower lake
somewhat better. The power plant vicinity and the channels around and
near the dam have been the best areas. Power Bait has been the most
productive. Mackinaw have moved into deeper water. Deep-trolling with
blue or silver Flatfish or tube jigging along the bottom might take a
few. The mackinaw population continues to rebound, with the average
size approaching 20 inches and some approaching 40.
Twin Lakes (Mt. Elbert) Forebay: Fishing for rainbow trout and
occasional mackinaw has slowed a bit but should improve with recent
stocking. Dardevles, Kastmasters, Krocodiles and Power Bait have been
working well. The forebay has the best population of lakers in the
Arkansas River basin. The average size is 17 inches and the largest
exceed 40. The forebay also has abundant rainbow trout, replenished by
periodic stocking. Hand-carried boats including float tubes are
permitted on the forebay. However, boaters should be aware of potential
fluctuations and strong currents. The best boater access is at the
southwest corner of the reservoir. Park along the edge of the road but
do not block the locked gate.
Two Buttes Reservoir: Two Buttes Reservoir is dry.
Valco Ponds: Three of the old dredge ponds along the Arkansas River
below Pueblo Reservoir are open for fishing. They offer saugeyes and
channel catfish, as well as some decent-sized bass and bluegills.
Limited-harvest fishing for the bass is strongly encouraged to protect
their population.
Wahatoya Reservoir: Relatively few fishermen have been on the water
recently, but fishing for rainbow trout remains fair to good. A variety
of nymphs, standard wet flies and streamers have been doing OK.
Fly-bubble outfits have been as productive as regular fly fishing
tackle. Fishermen may use only artificial flies and lures. Boats with
motors are prohibited.
Willow Springs Ponds: The ponds east of Interstate 25 near Fountain
have been rehabilitated, refilled and stocked with a variety of fish
that includes small and catchable-sized bass, wipers and panfish. Trout
were stocked earlier, and will be stocked again in the fall. A
fish-consumption advisory for some species of fish only is in effect
because of tetrachloroethylene (PCE), and anglers are advised to read
the informational signs at the lakes.
Southwest
Animas River: The river is running clear and low as the summer monsoon
rains are tapering off. Pressure will also drop off as the summer
tourist season is winding down. Grasshoppers are in their prime, so
hopper patterns in sizes 8 and 10 are recommended, drifted along the
bank. Fish sculpin and Woolly Bugger streamers in the deeper holes.
Nymphs also are working well — Princes, Copper Johns and Pheasant
Tails. Spinners should be working well, also. If the water is cloudy,
use streamers — Woolly Buggers and sculpin patterns.
Beaver Creek Reservoir: Fishing is picking up, with good action for 10-
to 12-inch rainbow trout using bait and lures from shore. Fly anglers
report good fishing using large black Woolly Buggers for rainbow and
brown trout.
Big Meadows Reservoir: Fishing was reported as good for 10- to 13-inch
rainbow trout and some brook trout using bait and flies. Fly anglers
reported good success using large black Woolly Buggers.
Blue Mesa Reservoir: The level remains good, at six feet below the
high-water mark. Surface temperatures are around 70 degrees, and an
algae bloom is prevalent across the lake. Kokanee salmon are deep and
moving toward the inlet. Try trolling or jigging large spoons at 70-100
feet in the Cebolla Basin. Fishing for trout has been best with bait
near the bottom around the Gunnison River inlet. Large numbers of perch
are being caught at the head of Soap Creek, near the Cebolla Creek
inlet and around the marinas on light jigs tipped with worms. Fishing
for lake trout is very slow. The largest fish are around 150 feet and
occasionally taken by trolling large plugs.
Conejos County (high country lakes): The high lakes are open. Be
prepared for thunderstorms; good rains with lightning are not uncommon.
Red, Trail, Green, Blue, Glacier, Tobacco, Bear, and Lake Anne have
been some of the more popular high lakes with anglers, and have been
fishing well. Fishing is expected to be good throughout the summer and
into fall.
Conejos County (small streams): Conejos County is home to many small
streams that are open and fishing fair to good for a variety of trout,
including brooks, browns, and cutthroats. A few small streams in
Conejos County are native-cutthroat trout waters with special fishing
regulations, so please consult your 2007 fishing regulations directory.
Conejos River: Fishing on the Conejos has been excellent for brown
trout. Insect activity has been good. Conejos County has been
experiencing heavy rains, causing stream conditions and flows to change
daily, so anglers should check local stream flows prior to fishing the
Conejos. Angling pressure has been moderate. The Conejos River has two
sections of special fishing regulation waters: From the upper boundary
of Aspen Glade campground upstream to Menkhaven Resort, artificial
flies, only, with a daily bag and possession limit of two trout at
least 16 inches long, and from the confluence with the South Fork of
the Conejos River upstream to the lower bridge at Platoro, artificial
flies and lures only, with a daily bag and possession limit of two
trout at least 16 inches long.
Crawford Reservoir: The lake offers fishing for trout, northern pike,
yellow perch, crappie, largemouth bass and catfish. Fishing was
reported as very slow over the weekend, mostly because of the rainy
weather. Water temperatures are dropping, along with the water in the
lake. The buoys have been pulled from the lake. The Iron Creek boat
ramp is closed for rest of the season; please use the Peninsula ramp.
Dolores River (lower): With little water flowing out of McPhee
Reservoir, the level is low and fishing is poor.
Dolores River (upper): The river is running clear and low. Hatches are
tapering off, so use hopper patterns. Hopper-dropper combinations are
also recommended. For the nymph used bead-head Prince Nymphs, Copper
Johns and Pheasant Tails. Woolly Buggers and sculpins also should work.
Spinners are a good bet at this time of year.
East River: On Tuesday morning the volume was 169 cfs, following a
spike from recent rain. Spawning-run salmon are the primary attraction
this time of year. Catch-and-release fishing has been good, though the
river typically is crowded. An occasional trout still may be taken on
nymphs and dry flies, but the major hatches are pretty much over.
Catch-and-release fishing for the salmon is permitted from the Taylor
River upstream to the lower boundary of the Roaring Judy hatchery.
Echo Canyon Reservoir: Warm weather has warmed the lake substantially,
so fishing is rated as poor from the bank. Fishing is best in the
morning and evening from a boat in the middle of the lake. Use Power
Bait, salmon eggs, worms, small spinners and dry flies for trout and
bass. Fishing from the bank should improve in a few weeks as the
weather continues to cool.
Gunnison River (below Crystal Dam): Flows jumped up again, to 1,230
cfs, and the water is off-color. Browns are getting more aggressive
downstream. Some epic midge days have been reported. Try midge
emergers, Griffiths Gnats, Wd 40s, Halfbacks, Pheasant Tails, Hare's
Ears and other traditional patterns. A nice sulfur dun hatch has been
coming off early to mid afternoon. Try a pink Cahill. Use a Stimulator
as a strike indicator in the hopper-dropper combination. Midges,
especially a red midge, are doing well in the afternoon into the
evening. Scuds in olive and orange, Copper Johns and GB Prince Nymphs
are some other patterns to have with you.
Gunnison River (through the canyon): The flow in the Gunnison Gorge is
up to 1,230 cfs. The upper Gunnison has been off-color because of heavy
rains and fishing is slow. It should clear up in a day or two.
Streamers and San Juan Worms with droppers are working best. The North
Fork is low enough to wade. A commercial shuttle/return-boat service is
still available through the Pleasure Park.
Gunnison River (Upper from Almont to Blue Mesa): The Gunnison on
Tuesday morning was flowing at 544 cfs. Kokanee salmon from Blue Mesa
Reservoir have entered the river and are found in most of the pools and
deeper runs. Fishing for them is permitted, but a catch-and-release
provision is in effect. Try a bright streamer or bead-head nymph in any
of the larger holes. A streamer trailed by an egg pattern also might
produce trout. Some BWOs are hatching on cloudy days and a few caddis
are evident in late afternoon. Inquire in Gunnison for updates.
Jackson Gulch Reservoir: Fall is a beautiful time of year at Mancos.
Trees are turning and nights are cool, with some frost. It's a great
time to catch the larger rainbow trout. Trout were stocked Labor Day
weekend. Perch continue to be plentiful but are mostly small. Action
along the dam for both trout and perch has been good. For trout,
typical baits such as salmon eggs and Power Bait, fished just off
bottom or suspended just below the surface, fly fishing, small
crankbaits and inline spinners have been producing. For consistent
perch action, suspend a small jig tipped with a worm under a slip
bobber at about 15 feet, or cast small flies along the shallow banks.
Camping, heated cabin-like yurts, and other facilities are available.
Call 970-533-7065, 970-882-2213 or check the link below for current
conditions.
Joe Moore Reservoir: The reservoir near Mancos is full and has been
stocked with catchable rainbow trout. Recent population sampling by the
DOW revealed an abundance of 8- to 10-inch yellow perch and some
nice-sized black crappie. Most of the perch were along the lake bottom.
La Jara Creek: La Jara Creek has been fishing well for brown trout.
Fishing has been good on worms, spinners and artificial flies. Trout
spook easily, so anglers should take a stealthy approach when fishing
the creek. Expect good fishing well into the fall.
La Jara Reservoir: The reservoir is open and fishing has been fair for
brook trout and splake. However, the level is low and the weeds have
grown high and thick. Fishing with anything other than dry flies may be
difficult. Last year's gill-net surveys showed the splake and brook
trout populations to be doing well. Splake and brook trout averaged 16
inches. Fish have been feeding on freshwater shrimp, leeches and
damselflies.
Los Pinos River: The river is running low and clear above Vallecito
Reservoir. Use small dry flies, spinners and hopper-dropper rigs with
nymphs. Pressure on this section of the river will drop as the summer
season ends. Access below the reservoir is limited by private property.
McPhee Reservoir: The water temperature is cooling as the summer
sunlight wanes. Fishing for trout reportedly is good with bait and
spinners. Smallmouth bass fishing is slow. For smallmouth bass, use
plastic worms and lizards. Remember that a slot limit applies to bass.
All smallmouth and largemouth bass 10-15 inches long must be returned
to the lake immediately. The DOW recently completed an electro-fishing
survey and found good populations of smallmouth bass, trout and yellow
perch.
Miramonte Reservoir: The 405-acre lake south of Norwood is part of the
Dan Noble State Wildlife Area and offers potentially good fishing for
larger-than-average rainbow trout. The DOW stocks subcatchable
rainbows, which grow to size in the lake. Crayfish are a primary source
of forage for the trout, and crayfish-imitating flies and lures
generally work well. While catch rates appear to be down somewhat in
the past year or two, the average fish size has been larger.
Mountain Home Reservoir: Fishing for rainbow trout is reported as good
using the typical baits and lures.
Navajo Reservoir: The lake level is high, at 6072.73 feet. The water
temperature on the Colorado side is 66 degrees. Northern pike,
smallmouth bass and crappie have slowed some. The pike have been biting
on red and chartreuse crankbaits just off the rocky points. Crappie are
still being caught on minnows near the breakwater at about 25 feet. The
marina is still open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., with worms, minnows, gas and
other fishing supplies.
Piedra River: The level is ideal for dry fly fishing. Try hopper
patterns and hopper-dropper combinations using nymphs. The Piedra near
the road and bridges gets substantial pressure. Hike a mile or two away
from easy access for the best fishing.
Platoro Reservoir: The reservoir is open and fishable. Platoro
Reservoir has been fishing well for rainbow trout, and fair for kokanee
salmon. Anglers have been catching rainbows on a variety of baits such
as Power Bait, worms and spinners. Construction of the new boat ramp
has been completed. Water levels are good and the reservoir is open to
boats.
Ridgway Fishing Ponds: The fish are down deep, so fish off the bottom.
The Pa-Co-Chu-Puk area of Ridgway State Park is excellent for children
because it has the only water below the dam that is not restricted to
artificial flies and lures or catch-and-release fishing. A limit of
four trout may be kept there, both by children and licensed adults (16
years or older).
Ridgway Reservoir: The lake is dropping pretty quickly. The fishing has
been really good. Rainbow trout are biting on pretty much anything.
Fishing for them has been best around the boat ramp. The salmon are
being caught along the face of the dam.
Rio Grande High Country Streams: High-country streams are running high
but clear. Fishing is reported as fair to good using bait, spinners and
flies. Fly fishermen have had good success drifting stonefly and mayfly
nymphs.
Rio Grande River: The river remains high but is clearing. Willowfly,
caddisfly and green-drake mayfly hatches are reported from Del Norte to
Creede. Fishing was reported as good to excellent using large dry
stonefly patterns, green drake and small elk-hair caddis presented on
the surface.
Road Canyon Reservoir: Fishing for rainbow, cutthroat and an occasional
brook trout has slowed somewhat but remains pretty good. Trolling
fire-tiger-colored Rapalas and rainbow Rat-L-Traps has been productive.
Shore fishermen have done OK on night crawlers off the bottom. Spinning
lures and night crawlers below a bobber have worked well late in the
afternoon. Many of the fish have been 16-18 inches, with some a little
larger. The trout have been exceptionally chunky. A habitat stamp is
required of everyone in the state wildlife area.
San Juan high-country lakes, streams: Fishing is excellent in the
high-country lakes and streams. On small streams, use small dry flies
and hopper patterns but be stealthy, as the fish are skittish at this
time of year. Spinners are a good bet, as are worms and Power Bait in
the lakes.
San Juan River: The water level is low and fish are wary. Lots of rain
is keeping the river muddier than usual. A landslide in the East Fork
is causing more silt to flow into the river with any rain. Use dry fly
patterns, emergers, nymphs and hopper patterns. Try a dropper rig, with
a dry fly and a nymph tied in below.
San Luis Lake: The San Luis Lake water level is low and the boat ramp
is not usable. Catchable (9-inch) rainbow trout were stocked in early
April. Angling for carp was reported as good for 12- to 13-pound fish
on streamer flies and nymphs.
Sanchez Reservoir: The lake is clear and the water level is rising. The
boat ramp is usable. Walleye fishing is improving. Anglers report
catching 16- to 20-inch walleyes using plastic worms worked along the
bottom in 25 feet of water.
Summit Reservoir: The lake has been chemically treated to remove
non-native white suckers and at present is closed for fishing. The lake
will be restocked with gamefish next spring.
Taylor Reservoir: Trolling with cow bells and night crawlers has been
producing 1- to 2-pound rainbow trout in 35 feet of water. Mackinaw
remain deeper, but some 3- to 4-pound fish have been taken. Anchoring
and fishing with worms below a slip sinker with the spinning-reel bail
open has been the most effective technique. Look for mackinaw to move
into shallower water as temperatures continue to drop. Nighttime
temperatures have regularly been below freezing and some snow has
appeared on surrounding peaks. The marina will close for the season on
Sept. 30.
Taylor River: Flows on Tuesday morning were 293 cfs at Almont and a
steady 249 cfs below Taylor Dam. Above Almont, caddis and small
stonefly patterns remain fairly effective, though the major hatches are
over. Stimulators, Prince Nymphs, Hare's Ears and Copper Johns have
been working well. Woolly Buggers and other streamers also remain a
good bet. The tailwater directly below the dam offers good fishing for
exceptionally large rainbows, but the area attracts large crowds. Mysis
shrimp and midges are the go-to patterns. Think small — sizes 18-24.
Trujillo Meadows Reservoir: Trujillo Meadows Reservoir is open and
accessible. Fishing has been fair for brown trout and rainbows. Fishing
pressure has been moderate during the week and heavy on the weekends.
Effective methods for trout at Trujillo Meadows have been worms and
lures in brown- and rainbow- trout patterns.
Tucker Ponds: Fishing is reported as fair to good for stocked rainbow
trout of 10-14 inches using bait and flies.
Uncompahgre River in Ridgway Park: The fishing has really turned on in
the past week. The flows are down to 250 cfs. Colorado River cutthroat,
Snake River cutthroat, rainbow and brown trout all call this section of
the Uncompahgre home.
Vallecito Reservoir: Fishing for 13- to 15-inch rainbow trout from the
bank continues to be excellent. Salmon eggs are the preferred bait now.
The fish also will take worms, spinners, Power Bait or dry flies.
Anglers are still catching northern pike by trolling Rapalas. A mercury
advisory has been issued for consumption of northern pike from the
lake.
Williams Creek Reservoir: Fishing for trout has been poor recently in
the reservoir and in the creek below. Try the inlet area and near the
outlet from the dam in the mornings and evenings.
SALMON GIVEAWAYS
Kokanee salmon that have been stripped of their spawn by the Colorado
Division of Wildlife may be available to licensed anglers. The Roaring
Judy hatchery above Almont will give away salmon on the final three
Fridays of October, beginning at 9 a.m. The tentative schedule for
salmon from above Elevenmile Reservoir is Mondays and Thursdays
beginning Oct. 15. Check with the Elevenmile Reservoir State Park
office to confirm the dates. Salmon from the Shadow Mountain/Granby
Reservoir operation usually also are given away. Check with the DOW’s
Hot Sulphur Springs office for details.
ANTERO EMERGENCY REGULATIONS CHANGE
A new daily bag and possession limit is in effect for Antero Reservoir.
The new limit is two trout of any size. The earlier limit was four
trout, of which only one could exceed 16 inches.
The Colorado Wildlife Commission approved the emergency change to the
fishing regulations on Aug. 13 in order to reduce the loss of fish that
anglers have caught and released.
The change was prompted by a significant loss of fish to hooking
mortality. Many trout had grown larger than 16 inches in July, when the
reservoir reopened to fishing. With the earlier limit, many
hard-fighting trout were dying after being caught and returned to the
water. Rising summertime water temperatures added to the stress on the
fish.
The emergency measure will be reviewed in November.
The reservoir had been closed since 2002, when it was drained. The
Denver Water impoundment on the South Fork of the South Platte River
was restocked with thousands of rainbow, brown, brook and cutthroat
trout, and splake, a brook trout/lake trout hybrid.
FISH-RELEASING TIPS
The point of catch-and-release fishing is to enable fish to live on, to
continue growing and fight another day. Anglers are encouraged to
practice the following precautions to improve the odds for fish
survival:
Do not play the fish to exhaustion. Use appropriate tackle to land the
fish quickly. Fly fishermen might use a heavier line weight with as
stout a leader tippet as possible. Spin fishermen might use a
stiffer-action rod and heavier line.
Keep the fish in the water as much as possible when handling and
removing the hook.
Remove the hook gently and do not squeeze the fish or put your fingers
in its gills.
If the fish is hooked deeply, cut the line. Do not attempt to remove
the hook.
Release the fish only after its equilibrium is recovered. Gently hold
the fish in the water and move it slowly back and forth until it can
take off on its own.
Release the fish into the most oxygenated water possible.
BE BEAR AWARE
Fishermen and campers are reminded that many of their favorite waters
are in bear country. Taking simple precautions such as not leaving food
out where bears can find it and keeping a clean camping site can avoid
potential problems for people and bears alike. The Colorado Division of
Wildlife offers brochures and other information for reducing the risk
of bear encounters. They are available at DOW offices statewide.
REGULATIONS CHANGES
The Colorado Wildlife Commission recently approved some changes to the
fishing regulations that are not included in the 2007 fishing brochure.
They went into effect on May 1.
On the lower Blue River, catch-and-release provisions were enacted from
Green Mountain Dam to the Colorado River. On the upper Blue and its
Swan River tributary, long-standing closures in the fall to protect
spawning brown trout from Dillon Reservoir have been removed.
On the lower Gunnison River, through the Black Canyon and Gunnison
Gorge, a slot limit protecting brown trout has been dropped.
Flies-and-lures restrictions have been extended on the Gunnison from
the North Fork confluence downstream four miles to the Relief Ditch
diversion. Anglers there also have to release all rainbow trout.
Flies-and-lures and catch-and-release provisions were extended to the
Poudre River through Gateway Park downstream to the North Fork
confluence.
Quality fishing regulations were enacted for Johnstown Reservoir. A
15-inch minimum-size provision applies to walleye/saugeyes and bass,
and a 10-inch minimum to crappie.
Artificial flies-and-lures fishing with a catch-and-release provision
for bass were approved for the Bald Eagle Pond in St. Vrain State Park. |
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