Colorado Hunting News

With the Fourth of July falling on a Wednesday this year, Colorado anglers are facing a bit of a dilemma: Whether to take a couple of days before the holiday and return in time for the local fireworks display, or to leave town on the Fourth and fish through a long weekend.

Either way, fishing conditions statewide appear hot as the proverbial firecracker.

The annual runoff has peaked on rivers statewide. Though a few remain high, virtually all are fishably clear. Seasonal hatches of aquatic insects including green drakes, summer caddis, pale morning duns and yellow stoneflies are under way, providing fly fishermen with a wealth of possibilities. Spin-fishermen also are likely to find frisky trout in the river of their choice.

Fishing for trout, kokanee salmon and in some cases northern pike remains good on many large, mountain reservoirs. However, with gradually rising water temperatures, peak fishing periods tend to be early mornings and late afternoons into the evening.

That pattern also holds true on lower-elevation reservoirs, where warm-water fishing has slowed somewhat but fish still are active. Water levels on some irrigation reservoirs are dropping, but virtually all remain at suitable levels. A few, including Pueblo Reservoir, still are rising.

However, many large, low-elevation reservoirs also are popular among recreational boaters, water skiers and other water enthusiasts. Holiday traffic on the water often is significant.

The holiday weekend traditionally is a time for fishing in the higher mountains, and conditions generally are very good. Mountain creeks are clear, and beaver ponds are accessible. Virtually all Alpine lakes are free of ice, and though some snowdrifts may linger, most are accessible.

Most popular and easily accessible mid- to higher-elevation lakes have been stocked with trout from the Colorado Division of Wildlife’s hatchery system. Many also have holdover trout, fish that remain from earlier stocking.

While stocking will continue through the summer at higher-elevations, it is discontinued at lower-elevation waters when water temperatures become too high. Many such lakes also have warm-water fish, and they remain active through the summer, offering another dimension for many anglers.

With prime fishing conditions and eager holiday-weekend anglers, campgrounds can become crowded. For information about camping in Colorado state parks, log on to HYPERLINK “http://parks.state.co.us/” http://parks.state.co.us/. To make reservations by telephone, call (303) 470-1144 or (800) 678-CAMP.

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.

HABITAT STAMPS

Visitors to state wildlife areas must have habitat stamps. Colorado lawmakers created the habitat-stamp program last year, and it went into effect on Jan. 1. Stamps cost $5 and are required on the first two licenses bought in a calendar year for people aged 19-64. The stamps cost $10 without a license, and are required to use wildlife areas for fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing and other purposes. Lifetime stamps are available for $200. People under 19 and over 64 are not required to have the stamps.

CLEAR CREEK RESERVOIR CLOSURE

Clear Creek Reservoir, a popular lake along the Arkansas River north of Buena Vista and west of Granite, will be closed to all public access Aug. 1 in order to facilitate maintenance work on the dam. The Pueblo Board of Water Works will drain the reservoir to its conservation pool from July to mid-August. The target date for completion is Dec. 15.

Fish are expected to survive in the conservation pool, but stocking will be curtailed. The lake traditionally is among the most productive and dependable reservoirs in the area. It offers fishing for rainbow and cutthroat trout and occasional larger browns. The reservoir also has kokanee salmon and tiger muskies.

Ice fishing generally is good, and the closure should be lifted by the time the reservoir freezes.

ANTERO OPENING

Antero Reservoir will reopen to fishing at 9 a.m. on July 17, a Tuesday.

The reservoir has been closed since 2002, when it was drained. The Denver Water impoundment on the South Fork of the South Platte River has been restocked with rainbow, brown, brook and cutthroat trout, and splake, brook trout/lake trout hybrids.

A new fishing regulation will apply to Antero when it reopens. The bag and possession limit for trout is four. Of those, only one may exceed 16 inches. Fish caught and placed on a stringer, in a live well or other container, or not immediately returned to the water count in the daily bag and possession limit.

Antero is an exceptionally productive reservoir, where fish grow rapidly. It has long been a favorite among fishermen.

“We are very confident that anglers will have a great experience at Antero,” said Jeff Spohn, the DOW’s aquatic biologist for the upper South Platte drainage. “It is, however, a limited-capacity site, so anyone looking for prime Colorado fishing should also consider the many other waters we manage in South Park.

Antero’s reopening also will provide access to a new channel of the South Fork on Denver Water property below the dam. The channel features habitat structures designed to provide improved holding water for trout. Fishermen may use only artificial flies and lures in that segment and all trout must immediately be returned to the water alive.

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.

RECENT STOCKING

The following recently were stocked with catchable trout

Body of water Location

Alta Lake, Lower SW of Telluride

Balman Reservoir W of Hillside

Beaver Creek Reservoir S of South Fork

Beaver Lake Grand Mesa

Beaver Lake E of Marble

Bellaire Lake NW of Rustic

Big Meadows Reservoir SW of South Fork

Brainard Lake W of Ward

Buena Vista Kids Pond Buena Vista

Carp Lake Grand Mesa

Chalk Creek Lake W of Nathrop

Chapman Dam SE of Norrie

Cochetopa Creek #1 Tomichi Ck to Los Pinos Ck

Copper Mountain Pond Copper Mountain

Cottonwood Lake #1 S of Collbran

Crystal Lake S of Leadville

Deer Creek Lakes E of Lake City

Dinkle Lake SW of Basalt

Dome Lake, Upper S of Gunnison

Elkhead Reservoir E of Craig

Enochs Lake SW of Grand Junction

Evergreen Reservoir Evergreen

Fellowship Camp Pond NW of Golden Gate State Park

Fooses Lake W of Poncha Springs

Frantz Lake NW of Salida

Golden Gate State Park Lakes NW of Golden

Grizzly Reservoir SE of Aspen

Gunnison Pond Gunnison

Gunnison River, Lake Fork Blue Mesa Res. to Gateview

Hayden Meadows Reservoir SW of Leadville

Hotel Twin Lake NE of Cedaredge

Island Lake Marble

Jumbo Reservoir Grand Mesa

Lost Lake Slough SE of Somerset

Love Lake SW of Creede

McDonough Reservoir SW of Gunnison

Meadow Lake N of New Castle

Mesa Lake Grand Mesa

Mill Creek Ponds SE of Lake City

Millions Reservoir SW of South Fork

Mirror Lake E of Tincup

Montgomery Reservoir N of Alma

Monument Reservoir W of Trinidad

Mt. Elbert Forebay N of Twin Lakes

North Fork of Michigan River Lake NE of Gould

North Lake W of Trinidad

North Platte River #2 Verner Lease

North Platte River #B2 Brownlee Lease

Officers Gulch Pond W of Frisco

Pac-Man Lake Gunnison

Pass Creek Pond NE of Wolf Creek Pass

Pothole Lake #1 N of Almont

Pothole Lake #2 N of Almont

Ranger Lake, Lower SE of Gould

Ranger Lake, Upper SE of Gould

Reed Reservoir Grand Mesa

Rifle Gap Reservoir N of Rifle

Riverside Ponds Salida

Riverway Pond Gunnison

Road Canyon Reservoir W of Creede

South Platte River, South Fork #1 Below Antero Reservoir

Spring Creek #1 Above Taylor River

Spring Creek Reservoir NE of Almont

Sunset Lake Grand Mesa

Sweetwater Lake NW of Dotsero

Taylor River #1 Above Almont

Tenmile Creek #1 Above Dillon Reservoir

Tincup Pond Tincup

Trap Lake NE of Cameron Pass

Trent Pond Silverthorne

Trickle Park Reservoir Grand Mesa

Trout Lake SW of Telluride

Tucker Park Ponds NE of Wolf Creek Pass

Ward Creek Reservoir Grand Mesa

West Fork Lakes NE of Pagosa Springs

Willow Creek #2 Above Willow Creek Reservoir

Willow Creek Reservoir N of Granby

Wrights Lake SW of Nathrop

Denver Metro
Arvada Reservoir — Fishing for trout remains slow. A few still are being taken on Power Bait. 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 67 degrees. Trout fishing overall is fair to good and is best in the morning and evenings. Trout are deeper now. Slip rigs with rainbow and orange Power Bait cast 40-50 yards out from the dam have been producing some nice-sized rainbows. From boats, fishing has been fair to good 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 slow to fair. Some have been caught on bottom bouncers with crawlers, jigs or spoons. Wiper action is slow. 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. Catfish are making a move for large dead shiners off the bottom. Boaters are fishing close to the wildlife-refuge area and catching walleyes. Follow the rules; watch for buoy line.
Bear Creek — The creek is high. Fish the edges with olive Woolly Buggers or dry fly/dropper rigs but be careful.
Bear Creek Reservoir — Fishing in the reservoir has been good. Rainbow trout have been caught on orange Power Bait or by trolling with silver spoons.
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 as the water warms. 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. No boats are allowed on the 15-acre lake. A playground, restrooms and handicapped-accessible fishing pier are available.
Chatfield Ponds — Bass are starting to hit buzzbaits off the surface. Crappie still are hitting minnows.
Chatfield Reservoir — The spillway still is a great place to get a limit. It’s hit-or-miss, however, but worth a try. Boaters are following the walleyes into the bays and getting them there.
Cherry Creek Reservoir — Boaters are hitting walleyes off the face of the dam using Rapalas or Lindy Rigs tipped with a leech. Trout fishermen are doing pretty well using minnows off a bobber.
Clear Creek (above Hwy. 119) — The water level is high; use caution. Fish the edges with black Woolly Buggers or dry flies with a dropper.
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 — Muskies are starting to hit large Rapalas worked close to the inlet. Trout will take Power Bait off the bottom.
Georgetown Lake — Use night crawlers or Power Bait off the bridge area for trout. Bigger fish are being caught on the far side of the lake by those up for the walk.
Gross Reservoir — The inlet has always been good for trout, but look to the shallow bays for tiger muskies. A 42-inch tiger was caught on Power Bait this year. Try dead shiners off the bottom close to shore.
Jim Baker Reservoir — Catfish are hitting dead shiners off the bottom, especially early and late in the day. Bass are hitting large shiners off a bobber about 30 feet off the shore.
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. No boats are allowed on the lake.
Quincy Reservoir — The water temperature is 68 degrees. Overall, fishing is best early and late. Trout fishing is fair to good using Callibaetis patterns, bead-head Prince Nymphs and Hare’s Ears. Bass fishing is fair to good across the reservoir using jigs, spinnerbaits, crawfish imitations and crankbaits. Topwater action for bass is occurring in the evenings using buzzbaits and surface plugs. Perch action is good on jigs. 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 is a good place to go for trout. Use Power Bait or a night crawler off the bottom. Bass are found around the mossy areas.
Sloans Lake — Bass are moving into deeper water. Find structure to find the bass. Use a big, fat night crawler to hook them.
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. No boats are allowed on the lake.
South Platte River (Waterton Canyon) — The river has been unusually high and discolored. Fishing is difficult. 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 still at capacity and the water temperature has been at 69 degrees. Trout continue to be caught with Power Bait and salmon eggs fished off the bottom from the shore. Boaters are having very good success trolling for walleyes, wipers, trout and bass using a variety of spoons and spinners. Several large walleyes and wipers were caught last week. A $6 fee is required for drive-in access. Walk-in access is free. Permits for boats under 20 horsepower are available for $15 per day. For more information contact the Standley Lake Visitor Center at 303-425-1097.
Washington Park Lakes — The lakes are stocked with trout in the spring. Crappie running up to 10 inches, bass, bluegills and catfish can provide some interesting fishing in an urban-park setting later, as the water warms. Try a small Fle Fly jig or live minnow below a bobber about 3 feet down for crappie, among the first warm-water fish to become active in the spring.
Webster Lake — The lake is stocked with catchable-sized trout in spring and early summer and fishing for them usually is good. The lake also has channel catfish, bass, perch and crappie, and warm-water fishing will improve with gradually warming water temperatures. No boats are allowed. A handicapped-access fishing pier, playground and other facilities are available.
Northeast
Barker Reservoir — The water level has come up dramatically and the reservoir has been spilling. Spring is the best time to catch trout at Barker using worms and salmon eggs. Anglers usually also have some good success using spinnerbaits and small spoons. Memorial Day weekend was fair for fishing, with most trout caught on the north shore. Also, try near the inlet.
Barnes Meadow Reservoir — Fishing pressure has been moderate to heavy during the weekends. Power Baits 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 — The lakes are free of ice and the road is open. Early season fishing for mackinaw usually is good. The bag and possession limit for lake trout and splake there is three fish, of which only one can exceed 26 inches.
Big Thompson Ponds — No recent reports have come in, but the ponds were affected by a winter kill, resulting in a loss of fish. Fishing could be slow this year.
Big Thompson River — Flows are at 124 cfs. Pale morning duns and green drakes are on. Size 16-20 PMD dries and nymphs are a good choice, or for the drakes, size 12 in both dry and wet flies. Stonefly patterns such as No. 12-16 Stimulators are working well as point flies on dropper rigs. For PMDs, try size 16-18 Thorax, Parachute or Hatchmasters for dries, Pheasant Tails, Pickpockets or Hotwires for nymphs. For the drakes - size 12 Wulffs, Ice Drakes or Crown Jewels, Anato Mays or Prince Nymphs. Caddis also are showing. Try size 16 Elk Hairs and Z Wings. For spin-fishing, Mepps and Panther Martins will work well. In the non catch-and-release section, salmon eggs are ideal bait. Inquire in Estes Park for more details.
Boedecker Reservoir — Most bass are going deeper, looking for a shiner off the bottom. A fat night crawler will trick them, also.
Boulder Reservoir — Fishing for smallmouth bass remains fair to good along the dam on jigs of various colors, Gitzits and plastic worms. Some have been around 16-17 inches. Walleyes have been plentiful, but they tend to be relatively small. Boating fees for the reservoir have discouraged a number of fishermen.
Boyd Lake — The level is high and the inlets appear to have been shut down. Trolling for walleyes has been fairly good. Bottom bouncers with night crawlers and crankbaits have been effective. Most walleyes have been on the small side. Bass and catfish are becoming more active, especially during cooler times of the day. 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 — Carter recently was stocked with 2,000 trout, including 500 that weighed between 2 and 5 pounds. Fishing for them has been good, especially around sundown. Bass fishing has been improving. Try using tube jigs, worms, and other soft-plastic lures. The docks and slips on the west side make excellent areas to fish for bass. Walleye fishing has been picking up on the east side of the reservoir near Dam 1.
Chambers Lake — Fishing for rainbow trout has been productive. The campground is open but the lake level is low, so be prepared to walk to the water’s edge. Power Baits, spinners, Kastmasters and similar lures will work well. Remember, no live minnows may be used as bait above 7,000 feet on elevation on the Eastern Slope of Colorado.
Cowdrey Lake — Cowdrey and the other “Sagebrush Lakes” have been fishing very well. Great hatches of Chironomidae and Callibaetis have been coming off daily from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. During the hatch, dry fly fishermen might a dry fly that imitates a Chironomid or Callibaetis followed by an emerger of that same bug. Try to locate fish by seeing a rise and cast to it. Nymph fishermen should try fishing below an indicator with a three-fly rig. Go 8-10 feet below an indicator, fishing a Callibaetis, to a midge, to a Copper John.
Dixon Reservoir — The fishery appears healthy after some concerns about winter kill. Fishing for small largemouth bass, large bluegills and a few crappie has been excellent. Late afternoon into the evening has been the most productive time. The lake is very weedy and difficult to fish on the bottom or from shore. Fly casting from float tubes or small boats seems like the best approach. A variety of nymphs and small streamers has been the ticket.
Douglas Reservoir — Wiper action is starting to pick up. Use your fish finder to locate them, then cast large shad patterns in their direction.
Dowdy Lake (Red Feather) — The weather is a little cooler here, making a nice place to go for a weekend of trout fishing. Use Power Bait off the bottom, or take your boat to the islands and flip a Kastmater. The trout are pretty hungry here.
East Delaney Lake — Great hatches of Chironomidae and Callibaetis are occurring almost daily from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. During the hatch, fish a dry fly trailing a Callibaetis or Chironomidae emerger or nymph, casting ahead of a feeding fish, or an with a three-fly rig. Go 8-10 feet below an indicator fishing a Callibaetis, to a midge to a Copper John. Inquire in Walden for more information. A habitat stamp is required to use the state wildlife area.
Estes Lake — Lake Estes is fishing well, especially in the mornings or evenings. For fly fishing, try midges in size 18-22 for surface activity in the mornings and evenings. Try Woolly Buggers, midges, caddis and beetles for cruising fish. For spin fishing, try flashy lures and bait, especially salmon eggs at the inlet. Fishing around the lake can be good with a worm or Power Bait, as well.
Flatiron Reservoir — Fishing has been picking up. Flatiron was recently stocked with trout. Fishing has been best using salmon eggs or green Power Bait.
Hidden Lakes — The lakes are free of ice and the road is open. U.S. Forest Service campgrounds are available.
Hohnholz Lakes — Early rising fishermen will discover the trout in Lake No. 2 like salmon eggs for breakfast. Otherwise, a fly-and-bobber also is a good way to get a hook up.
Horsetooth Reservoir — The water level has dropped a little but fishing remains quite good. Smallmouth bass are very active in the western coves, with the Eltuck Coves leading the way. Anglers have reported good walleye action in the Inlet Bay and South Bay areas. Reports also have come in of some large walleyes taken along Soldier Dam. Points off the coves have shown good results for bass and walleyes. Silver Rat-L-Traps and light-colored Mister Twisters are still a good bet. The water temperature is in the low 60s, with the coves several degrees higher. All walleyes must be at least 18 inches long, but only one can exceed 21 inches.
Jackson Reservoir — Fishing continues to be slow to fair for all species. A few wipers have been reported caught from boats, the dam and inlet on worms or mussels. Channel catfish are also are being caught from the northeast corner of the lake on worms.
Joe Wright Reservoir — Ice is off the reservoir. Grayling are the primary species caught in the lake, although rainbow and cuttbow trout can be caught, as well. The lake has a special regulation that only artificial for flies and lures may be used (no bait fishing). The daily bag and possession limit is two trout at least 16 inches long. Fishing has been slow the last several weeks, with only a few grayling caught.
Jumbo Reservoir — The reservoir is still full, and all the boat ramps are in the water and accessible. Trout fishing is good, with many rainbows averaging 14-15 inches. Trolling and using blue and silver crankbaits along the south dams have been the most successful. Some catfish also have been caught. Some crappie and walleyes have been stocked, but are too young to be catchable. A habitat stamp is required to enter Jumbo and Red Lion Annex.
Lake John — Cowdrey, Delaney Buttes and Lake John are fishing well this week. Great hatches of Chironomidae and Callibaetis are evident from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every day, weather permitting. During the hatch try one of two things. If you’re a dry fly guy, put on a dry fly that imitates a Chironomid or Callibaetis, followed by an emerger of that same bug. Try to locate fish by seeing a rise and cast to it. (Try to guess the direction the fish is feeding) If you’re a nymph fishermen, try fishing below an indicator with a three-fly rig. Go 8-10 feet below an indicator fishing a Callibaetis, to a midge, 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 — Fishing with larger caddis patterns seems to hook some of these spooky fish. Use a chocolate RS-2 as a dropper, and fish the deep holes.
Lon Hagler Reservoir — White bass remain active in the west end near the brush, and a few good-sized crappie still are being taken. Wipers have become more active, especially early and late in the day. Some bass have been taken along the dam face, and fishermen also have been catching some 3-to 6-pound catfish on the traditional catfish baits.
Lonetree Reservoir — Fishing for bass remains good for quality if not for quantity, and wipers have become more active, especially in late afternoon into the evening. The best bass action also has been late in the day. Fishing for walleyes has slowed but remains fair during periods of low light. The minimum size is 15 inches, and fishermen may take only one walleye longer than 21 inches per day.
Long Draw Reservoir — The lake usually remains frozen into early June and the access road is opened around June 22.
Lost Lake (at Chambers) — Fishing pressure has been high on the weekends, with some success. A partial winter kill is possible here, as the lake is not too deep. How much, if any, over-winter mortality has occurred is unknown. The lake has a litter problem, so please pack out what you pack in.
North Delaney Lake — Fishing has been fair to good, and is getting better as water temperatures increase. Fishing has been best using scuds, black leeches, crayfish, Chironomidae and Callibaetis. Nymphing with two to three flies fished 6-10 feet below an indicator is most productive during the day. Try large streamer and leech patterns at dawn and dusk. Chironomids are hatching daily, with sporadic Callibaetis hatches dependent on the weather. The lake is designated Gold Medal Water, and special regulations apply. 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. A habitat stamp is required to use the state wildlife area.
North Michigan Lake — The lake has been stocked twice. 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 caddisflies.
North Park Alpine Lakes — The high lakes are mostly thawed. Agnes Lake is ice-free, but the trail is still snow-packed. Caddisflies are working well at Agnes. The cutthroats are spawning.
North Park Streams — The tributaries are fishing exceptionally well. This time of year the fishing fluctuates with the water. For these rivers to fish really well, a good flow and good water temperatures are needed. A good flow is anything where the water is still in its banks, with 1-2 feet of visibility. Good water temperatures are 46-54 degrees for very active fish. When temperatures are right, look for feeding fish to be exposed. Never walk up on a hole without first scouting it for visible fish. Try Woolly Buggers in black and bright colors (yellow, orange, red). Nymph with Gold-Ribbed Hare’s Ears, Pheasant Tails, Prince Nymphs, 20-Incher Stones and leech patterns. The North Fork has been fishing best.
North Platte River — The North Platte was at 348 cfs on Monday, having come down over the past week. Water temperatures are getting very warm midday, making fishing challenging. Early and late in the day are the best times for fishing. PMDs, caddis, Yellow Sallies, green drakes and mahoganies are providing great periods of dry fly fishing. The caddis usually will get started first, then the mayflies and Sallies will appear. Once the fish get on these bugs, it seems like they disappear, so be ready. During the caddis hatch, try throwing a size 12 orange Stimulator to a size 16 elk-hair caddis. If the fish don’t react, try dropping a green Copper John or some sort of emerging caddis.
North Sterling Reservoir — The lake is full, and the outlet is running. The water temperature is in the upper 70s on the surface. Wiper fishing is still fair, with shrimp and crayfish the best baits. Anglers are still catching some walleyes up in the arms on the flats. Catfishing has improved on the flats, with cut bait working the best. A few crappie have started appearing along the north end of the lake and west of Goose Island.
Parvin Lake (Red Feather) — Take your belly boat and troll the shoreline closest to the road, using a black Woolly Bugger or gold Kastmaster. Many trout are running about 18 inches here.
Pinewood Reservoir — Pinewood was recently stocked. Fisherman’s Cove remains the most reliable spot. Salmon eggs and orange Power Bait have been working best.
Poudre River — The Poudre has been high and tough to fish, but it appears to be dropping. A return of warmer weather might delay the clearing, however. An effective rig for the conditions might be a dry-dropper combination, with a Stimulator dry fly as the lead, trailed by a nymph. A bit of trial and error with popular nymph and emerger patterns is in order to determine what’s working best.
Prewitt Reservoir — The reservoir is still full, and running enough to keep it full. The boat dock is in. Catfish and wipers have slowed down. Walleyes are biting in the inlet and fishing for them is good. They are being caught on a wide variety of tackle, from worms to Mister Twisters in various colors. An annual habitat stamp is required to enter Prewitt Reservoir.
Ranger Lakes — Ranger Lakes have been stocked twice and the fishing is great. Renegades, Bumblebee flies, Rooster Tail spinners, yellow spinners, caddisflies, white streamers, green scuds, Parachute Adams dry flies (in the evenings), worms, Power Bait and salmon eggs all have been effective.
Rocky Mountain National Park — The water is clear, with flows fluctuating daily. The Big Thompson in Moraine is flowing at 134 cfs. Stoneflies, caddis and pale morning duns have appeared in select areas. Try PMD Hatchmasters and Thorax in sizes 16-20 for dry flies, and bead-head Pheasant Tails, Copper Johns and Pickpockets in size 18-20 for the nymphs. For stoneflies, a size 18 Elk Hair Caddis will work well. 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 — Bass are finishing up their spawn and moving into deeper water. Use crankbaits or spinnerbaits to get an attack.
Seymour Reservoir — The lake is open and has been stocked with catchable-sized trout. A habitat stamp is required of everyone visiting the state wildlife area.
Simpson Ponds — The ponds have provided periods of good fishing for largemouth bass. Soft-plastic lures have been the most consistent. Also, try topwater baits such as Chug Bugs, poppers and buzzbaits in the evening. Catfish are active in the evenings into the night, and may be taken on stink baits, chicken livers and other typical catfish baits.
South Delaney Lake — Fishing has been great, with many fish over 20 inches being landed daily. Chironomids have been hatching daily, with sporadic hatches of Callibaetis dependent on the weather. During the hatch, try a Chironomid just below the surface; also try fishing them with a very slow hand retrieve. Also try scuds, leeches, midges, Chironomids, and Callibaetis patterns fished 5-10 feet below an indicator. Fishermen may use only artificial flies or lures, and the limit is two trout. Brown trout of 14-20 inches must be returned to the water immediately, and rainbows and cutthroats of 18-22 inches also must be released. Fishing is prohibited in the inlet upstream of the standing-water line. A habitat stamp is required of everyone using the state wildlife area. Inquire in Walden for the latest.
St. Vrain River — Flows on the Vrain have been about 328 cfs at Lyons. Stonefly and caddis imitators are good bets - Stimulators, size 12-16, and Elk Hair Caddis, size 14-16, are good choices for dries. Nymphs such as Z-wing Caddis, Glo-bubble Caddis, Mangy Caddis, Prince Nymphs and Golden Stones also are good choices. Stoneflies, size 12-16, and caddis, size 14-16, can make good point flies for a dry-and-dropper rig. Spinners such as Mepps or Panther Martin will work well with the increased current.
Teal and Tiago Lakes — The lakes are open and the access road is clear. U.S. Forest Service camping facilities are open for the season.
Union Reservoir (Calkins) — Fishing for wipers has been spotty, but some recent periods of good activity have been reported. Early mornings and late afternoons may produce some topwater action across the lake. Shore fishermen still are having some success using mussels for bait. Fishing for channel catfish has picked up, with the best success using worms, stink bait and cut shad.
Watson Lake — Trout are hitting a fly off a bobber. A sure bet is a black leech or a large Prince Nymph. A red-and-white spoon is also a good bet.
Wellington Reservoir #4 — Recently stocked, the trout are after salmon eggs off the bottom. A big worm will work, also, and Kastmasters fished close to shore are doing the job.
Northwest
Blue River (below Green Mountain Reservoir) — Flows below Green Mountain Dam have come down but fishing remains tough. On Tuesday morning the volume was 1,390 cfs. A catch-and-release provision went into effect May 1 for the river from Green Mountain Dam to the Colorado River. The river holds its share of trout, but through much of this section courses through private property.
Blue River (Dillon to Green Mtn. Res.) — The flow coming out of Dillon Reservoir is finally starting to slow down. It has dropped from around 1,500 cfs last week to below 1,000 cfs. With this drop in flow, the fishing should really begin to heat up, especially once it drops to around 600 cfs. Big flies and big tippet still will be the name of the game for a few more weeks. Be looking at using large Mysis shrimp, San Juan worms, big Pheasant Tails and Copper Johns with the flows still very high. Also, as the water warms up, there could be a few bugs coming off the water, especially downstream closer to Green Mountain. Caddis, PMDs, BWOs and even green drakes will start to appear as the flows continue to drop. Inquire in Silverthorne for the latest.
Colorado River (below Parshall) — The flow at Parshall, below the Williams Fork confluence, on Tuesday was 700 cfs, down considerably from last week. Near Kremmling, below the Blue River confluence, the volume was 2,460 cfs. The annual stonefly hatch has run its course through this stretch, but some caddis activity had been reported. At other times, attractor dry flies with a nymph as a dropper can be effective, and Muddler Minnows, Woolly Buggers and other streamers often produce some fish.
Colorado River (Glenwood to Rifle) — Fishing on the Colorado has been superb with good hatches of green drakes nightly from 8:45 to 9:45. Prior to that, hatches of PMDs and caddis are evident, which are best fished during the late afternoons. Nymphing with 20-Inchers, Princes and chartreause Copper Johns in the “soft” water is also productive. This is undoubtedly some of the best dry fly fishing of the entire year along the Colorado River.
Colorado River (near Granby) — Flows on Sunday were 322 cfs below Windy Gap, 413 cfs on the Williams Fork near Parshall and 2,590 cfs on the Colorado near Kremmling. The river can be difficult to fish under these conditions. The fluctuating flows below Windy Gap make interesting fishing patterns. Some caddis have been reported. Last week and last weekend, the river had been fishing very well. San Juan worms and egg patterns are still highly productive. 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 has been steadily receding, with recent river flows hovering around 1,000 cfs in Carbondale. The fishing has been tough because of the high, discolored water. Look for the fishing to improve as water levels continue to drop.
Elk River — The Elk is approaching a fishable level, but wading remains difficult. A few fish may be taken on streamer flies and stonefly nymphs. The best results has been in the upper sections.
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. Please use caution if boating; large amounts of debris exist.
Fryingpan River — The Frying Pan River has been flowing around 196 cfs below Ruedi Reservoir. Good hatches of BWOs are evident along the upper river and sporadic hatches of caddis and PMDs are occurring along the lower river. Mysis shrimp are still spilling through the dam in good numbers, especially in the Toilet Bowl and Flats. Light tippets of 6X and 7X are mandatory for success. Look for the best hatches and dry fly fishing to take place from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., as well as during the last hour of light. Look for the PMD hatches to increase significantly by the end of the month, just as the BWOs begin to fizzle out.
Granby Reservoir — All boat ramps are open and the water level is still rising. A variety of baits and lures has been working for bank fishermen. Stream inlets flowing into the lake are prime areas to fish. Spinners, Rapalas, slip-bobber rigs and bottom fishing techniques all produce fish. Vertical jigging is working well. Trolling with downriggers, mainly at 50-70 feet for macks, is coming on strong. Many mackinaw are being caught, but mainly of average size. Kokanee are being caught, but are proving to be a match for most fishermen. Reports are coming in of large schools, which is promising. Temperatures have soared, making middle-of-the day fishing tough. However, morning and evening conditions are good. 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. Spinners, Rapalas, vertical jigging, fly fishing, trolling and bait fishing all can produce brown trout, rainbows, 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. Inquire in Granby for updates.
Green Mountain Reservoir — The lake is full and the water temperature is warming. Stocker trout are still being caught on night crawlers and salmon eggs. A few kokanee are being caught trolling. Early mornings and evenings are most productive.
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 — Catfish have been active near the shallows on the north end of the lake, especially in the evenings. Try chicken livers or blood dough balls. The perch reportedly have been very healthy, and some good-sized fish have been caught near the swim beach. The crappie also are very active and are being caught near the spillway.
Highline Lake — Fishing has been outstanding. Though trout are expected to quit biting with rising temperatures, if you’re out in the morning you should still get your daily bag limit. Catfish, bass and crappie all are biting. A 5-pound bass has been the largest recently checked. The water temperature is 70 degrees and rising. Highline is open for boating, so fishing usually is best early in the morning. Highline’s water level is 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 buildup of silt and debris from the inlet.
Lake Avery — Fishing still is very good from the shore and boats. Power Bait and night crawlers have been the most consistent in producing rainbow trout for bank fishermen. Trolling with Rapalas and copper-color spoons has worked well for boaters.
Mack Mesa Lake — The water temperature is 73 degrees. The trout are still biting early in the morning and late at night. If you’re fishing for trout, use orange and pink Power Bait. The bass also are biting, with several 14-inchers having been caught. The bag and possession limit for largemouths is two. Conditions are great for young fishermen. 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 on Tuesday were 52 cfs and clarity was good. Fishing has been fair with spinners, streamers flies and nymphs.
Pearl Lake — Fishing has been slow. Pearl Lake typically fishes best in the early morning hours and late evenings. Try Woolly Buggers or small Panther Martin spinners.
Rifle Gap Reservoir — The water level has dropped, but the fishing still is excellent. It will be hot this weekend so remember the sunscreen. Several catches of nice-sized perch near the island have been reported. They seem exceptionally large this year. Rifle Creek is a hot spot for fly fishermen looking for some nice-sized brown trout. Northern pike have been noted in the shallow weeds by the Bass Day Use area.
Rio Blanco Lake — Fishing for bluegills and other panfish has been very good on crappie jigs. Yellow and chartreuse have been the preferred colors. Fishing for hammer-handle northern pike has been fair, with a few up to 28 inches. Red-and-white Dardevle-type spoons have been as effective as anything.
Roaring Fork River — The Roaring Fork is clear and fishing superbly well from Carbondale down to Glenwood Springs. Good hatches of green drakes, Yellow Sally stoneflies, PMDs and caddis are coming off nightly. The heaviest wave of drakes right now is taking place from Carbondale down to Glenwood Springs. Above that point, caddis are hatching in equally impressive numbers. The upper river above Basalt is fishing better daily with mostly nymphing opportunities. This could very well be the best drake hatch in many years because of the clear water and ideal water levels.
Shadow Mountain Reservoir — 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 well in the main reservoir. Conditions below Shadow Mountain Dam also are excellent. The flow rate has been fairly steady, so fishing conditions have leveled out. Sow bugs, nymphs, caddis and stonefly patterns have been doing well for fly fishermen, and lures and bait also are productive. Brown trout are plentiful in this area. More kokanee are being caught in this location; flies and wax worms are working well.
Stagecoach Reservoir — Trout fishing is slow, but some fish are being caught on Power Bait, Rooster Tails, Kastmasters, Dardevles, Panther Martins and other small spinners. Northern pike are being caught across the lake in 10-20 feet of water by bouncing tube jigs in green, pumpkin, smoke, silver-flake and other baitfish colors off the bottom. Weeds are appearing in 5-15 feet water near the inlet, so try a suspending Rouge or spinnerbait over the top of the grass. Tailwaters trout fishing still is very good using small (No. 20-24) midge patterns and scuds. RS-2s, Copper Johns, red San Juan worms and nymphs are also producing some fish. Early morning and before-dark hatches have occurred, resulting in some good dry fly fishing. For more information, visit www.parks.state.co.us
Steamboat Lake — Fish are feeding heavily on 1/6-ounce Rooster Tails with dark colors. Tube jigs and Panther Martins may work well. Darker colors that mimic crawdads and live bait have seen success. Black Woolly Buggers may work at Rainbow Ridge and Meadow Point. The dam area is fishing well. Sage Flats in early morning hours may produce limit catches. Nice-sized fish still are being taken from the lake.
Sylvan Lake — The lake was stocked with 1,250 rainbow trout in May. Brooks, browns and rainbow have been biting on Power Bait and flies.
Trappers Lake — Fishing cutthroat trout has slowed a little but still is fair to good. Most of the action has been subsurface, with bead-head nymphs, Woolly Buggers and blue-wing-olive emergers the best choices. 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 — The fishing at Vega Reservoir has been excellent for the past month. Anglers have been catching rainbow trout on night crawlers, Power Bait, Rooster Tails and Panther Martins. Gold and copper Kastmaster lures and gold or copper bead-head flies also have been productive. All three boat ramps are open; Early Settlers, the Island and Oak Point. During the daytime, the usually is usually sunny and warm, with evening and nighttime temperatures dropping into the low to mid-50s. Springtime colors abound, and the lake level is full and no longer spilling. All the creeks are high.
White River — The river has dropped and is running clear. Dry fly fishing has been good, but with recent hot weather the best activity already is early or late in the day. Elk-hair caddis, Adams and Royal Coachmen have been effective patterns. Bead-head Prince Nymphs and gold-ribbed-hare’s ears are good choices below the surface.
Williams Fork Reservoir — The water level has been steadily rising and the reservoir soon will be full. Fishing for rainbow trout has been fair to good. Anglers have been using Dardevle-type spoons, small crankbaits and an assortment of baits from shore. Northern pike should become active soon. The reservoir also has some large mackinaw.
Williams Fork River — Tuesday’s flow below Williams Fork Reservoir had come down to 413 cfs, greatly improved from last week but still a little high for prime fishing. Drifting weighted nymphs or streamers through the runs and pockets off the main current might produce some decent brown trout.
Willow Creek Reservoir — Shoreline fishermen are still reporting good success for trout, and trolling is producing good results, as usual. This is a beautiful area with a very nice campground and easy fishing access. It generally gets less fishing pressure than other area lakes. Worms, Power Bait and eggs are commonly used, as well as spinners, spoons and crankbaits. Fly fishing is very productive. Inquire in Granby for updates.
Wolford Reservoir — The water level remains high. Fishing for rainbow and brown trout has been best around the north inlet on a variety of baits and lures. Trolling for kokanee salmon has been productive in the middle of the lake. Needlefish, Tasmanian Devils and Kastmasters have been effective lures.
Yampa River (Hayden through Craig) — The river has peaked and is clearing. It offers potentially good fishing for trout, smallmouth bass and northern pike. Trout are starting to turn on and as the water warms, smallmouth activity will pick up, as well. Much of the river flows through private property with limited public access. Float-fishing trips are popular, and though walk-wade opportunities are limited, they do exist. See Yampa River State Park for more information.
Yampa River (Stagecoach through Steamboat) — The river has been dropping and is in good condition for dry fly fishing. Hatches include caddis, green drakes and pale morning duns. If trout are not surface feeding, try stoneflies and other standard nymphs. The .6-mile tailwater below Stagecoach Dam remains a productive stretch of river but it can get crowded. Midges and a few blue-wing-olives are on the water there.
Southeast
Adobe Creek Res. (Blue Lake) — Winter storage has filled Blue Lake. The high-water boat ramps are in service. Anglers should enjoy good water levels until irrigation draw downs lower the lake. Fishing has been fair for catfish using shrimp, dough baits and crawdads. Fishing for crappie has been spotty, with some periods of fairly good activity being reported.
Anticline Lake — Fishing has been fair. Trout have been taking several varieties of Power Bait, salmon eggs and worms. The popular lake below Pueblo Dam is heavily stocked with catchable-sized trout in the spring and early summer. Most of the typical baits and lures are effective here, but success usually depends on periodic stocking.
Arkansas River #3 (Through Pueblo) — The flow was up to 1,650 cfs on Tuesday morning, down from last week but still too high for good fishing. Fish generally 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) — Flows have declined by a fair bit on this section and clarity is good, but the river is still high. On Monday, flows were 1,600 cfs in the Buena Vista area and 1,850 in Browns Canyon. Flows are expected to decline significantly by the weekend.
Arkansas River (Leadville to Buena Vista) — Conditions have improved dramatically on the upper river since last week, especially in the reach above the Lake Creek confluence, where flows on Monday were 327 cfs. The Twin Lakes release is still high at 914 cfs, but it is clear water coming in to give a flow at Granite of 1,380 cfs. Golden and Yellow Sally stoneflies and caddis are coming off in this section.
Arkansas River (Salida to Canon City) — The river continues to flow at a good clip, though it has receded some and clarity is good. On Monday, flows were 1,820 cfs at Wellsville and 2,110 at Parkdale. This should drop quite a bit by the weekend. Golden and Yellow Sally stoneflies with a smattering of caddis are on the menu at this time.
Beckwith Reservoir — Fishing for 10- to 12-inch rainbow trout has been slow. The lake also has largemouth bass, crappie and bluegill. Boaters have access near the south end of the dam. Only electric motors may be used.
Bonny Reservoir — A few catfish are being caught in the shallows on the north side. A few white bass and wipers have been taken off the face of the dam on minnows, jigs and crankbaits. The boat-ramp depth is 2-3 feet, and the channel going out to the main lake is 18 inches deep. Most small boats (up to 18 feet) and pontoons can be launched at the ramp.
Brush Hollow Reservoir — Fishermen have reported periods of good activity for bass and crappie. The brushy upper end of the lake usually is best for crappie. The lake also is stocked with rainbow trout, which provide most of the early season fishing. Fishing for them has been fairly good on the typical baits and lures. Other warm-water species include largemouth bass, walleyes, channel catfish and bluegills. Warm-water fishing usually peaks in late May and June and tapers off during the heat of summer. The water level has been good, but draw downs in early June are common. A mercury advisory by the Colorado Department of Public Health is in effect for walleyes of a certain size.
Catamount Reservoirs, North & South — Fishing has slowed down on both lakes, possibly because of warmer weather, but anglers still are taking some trout on Woolly Buggers, Prince Nymphs, Copper Johns and assorted spinning lures. 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. Hours of operation will be: through My 24, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; May 25-Sept. 3, 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Sept. 4-30, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., weekends; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., weekdays. The area is closed during the Pikes Peak Hill Climb race.
Cheesman Reservoir — The Goose Creek arm of the reservoir has reopened to fishing after a five-year closure following the Hayman fire. The lake has rainbow and brown trout, smallmouth bass, northern pike and yellow perch, and recently was restocked with fingerling kokanee salmon. Initial reports indicate anglers have been taking some good-sized trout and smallmouths, but the catch rate has not been especially high.
Clear Creek Reservoir — Fishing remains fair to good on the standard baits and lures. Spin-fly fishermen have enjoyed some activity in the upper end. The level has temporarily come up, but the city of Pueblo will drain the reservoir to its conservation pool from July to mid-August for maintenance work on the dam. The area will be closed to all public access beginning Aug. 1. The target date for reopening is Dec. 15.
Cottonwood Lake — Fishing remains fairly good on night crawlers, salmon eggs and rainbow Power Bait. Super Dupers, Thomas Buoyants and Z-Rays have been effective lures. Some late-afternoon surface activity has been reported,
Crystal Creek Reservoir — Fishing for catchable-sized trout has been fairly good on a variety of baits and lures. Power Bait, salmon eggs and worms all have taken some fish. Fly-bubble rigs have been effective in the late afternoon on some days. The water level is considerably better than the past couple of years. The reservoir is part of the North Slope Recreation Area, and access requires paying a fee at the Pikes Peak Highway tollgate. The highway crosses the dam. See the entry for the Catamount reservoirs for hours of operation.
Daigre Reservoir — Fishermen report good success for rainbow trout on light-green flies, various nymphs and other dark flies, and Pistol Petes. Fishermen may use only artificial flies and lures at the lake. To the south, the roads to Blue and Bear lakes and the upper Huerfano River have opened. The lakes have been stocked. The river remains high but clear. Fishing for brown trout has been fair to good on worms on the state wildlife area. A flies-and-lures restriction applies to the upper river, where fishing has been fair.
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. High lakes in the Westcliffe region generally remain difficult to access because of snow, and many still have ice. Balman and Rainbow lakes are open and accessible. Hermit Lake has a small area of open water but requires a snowy hike to the lake.
Elevenmile Reservoir — Overall trout-fishing success is fair. The best reports have been 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 20-plus inches. Water temperatures are reaching into the 60s. Kokanee fishing has been poor. Northern pike fishing has picked up, with the majority of fish over 20 inches. 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. 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-size trout. The usual assortment of baits and lures is effective early in the year, and fly fishing usually is good later in the summer. Late afternoons often are the best time.
Horseshoe Reservoir — The water level is good and the temperature is about 69 degrees. Trout fishing has been excellent on various baits and lures. Fishing for warm-water species is starting to pick up, and the catfish are still doing good. The boat dock is in place on the north side of Horseshoe. Call the park office at 719-738-2376 for current conditions.
Jefferson Lake — The ice is off the lake, but some snow remains in the parking areas. The first parking lot and boat ramp are at least 75 percent open. Construction work on the road is ongoing, with paving to the boat ramp lot planned for this season. Fishermen have been doing well for 16- to 18-inch lake trout and holdover rainbows. The lake offers very good fishing for catchable-sized rainbows and occasional brook trout. Small (12- to 18-inch) lake trout can be taken from shore throughout the season. Larger lake trout are available to shoreline fishermen soon after ice-out.
John Martin Reservoir — Crappie reportedly still are biting around the Rule Creek trestle. Catfish are being caught on night crawlers and shrimp in the spillway. Some wipers have been taken off the point.
Karval and Kinney lakes — Both lakes and the nearby Hugo SWA ponds recently were stocked with catchable-sized trout. Fishing for them has been fair to good. All also have most of the common warm-water species, and fishing for largemouth bass, bluegills and channel catfish should be improving as the water warms.
Lake Henry — Water levels at Henry currently are good. Fishing has improved for catfish and crappie. Catfish are being caught using traditional baits. Crappie are being caught along the rocky shoreline on small jigs and minnows.
Lake Meredith — The water level at Meredith currently is good. 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 — Fishermen have had fairly good luck in recent days using worms. The popular U.S. Forest Service lake north of Woodland Park is heavily stocked with catchable-sized trout through the summer. Weekdays are less crowded. Excellent water levels are expected this year. Payment of an entry fee is required. Campgrounds and other amenties are nearby.
Martin Lake — The water level is good. Fishing for trout has been good using Power Bait and lures. The lake has been stocked several times, and the kids’ pond also has been stocked with trout. The water temperature is about 74 degrees. The warm-water fish are starting to pick up. Northern pike are also becoming active, and several catfish recently have been caught. Call the park office at 719-738-2376 for current conditions.
Montgomery Reservoir — The lake near Hoosier Pass has opened for the season. It offers fair to good fishing for catchable-sized rainbow trout and a handful of brook and brown trout. Fishing is prohibited on the south side of the reservoir and from the west face of the dam.
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 discolored. Warm-water fish were stocked as fingerlings last year, 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. Fishing is fair for wipers and catfish. Most fish are being caught on crawdad tails. The saugeye bite has slowed, but some nice-sized fish still are being caught on trolled crankbaits or drifted worm harnesses and jigs.
Nee Noshe Reservoir — Nee Noshe is very low, at less than 500 acres. Boat access is available, but launching is limited to small and medium-sized boats. Fishing is fair for wipers and catfish. Most fish have been taken on slowly trolled lures, but bank fishermen have been using shrimp and crayfish tails to catch them.
Nichols Reservoir — Salmon eggs and Power Bait have produced limit catches of trout early in the morning. Spoon-type lures and spinners also have worked fairly well. 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.
Palmer Lake — The water level has been very low the past few years and the lake has not been stocked. Very few fish remain. No fish will be stocked until the water level is suitable.
Pikeview Reservoir — Fishing for catchable-sized trout has been fair to good through the early summer, but with warming water temperatures is slowing down. This Colorado Springs city lake also is a developing warm-water fishery with a variety of species present, including some saugeyes up to five pounds. 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 has been refilled and stocked with trout. Fishing for catchable-sized rainbows and an occasional larger fish has been very good. Stocking will be discontinued as surface temperatures rise, but plenty of holdover trout remain. Rebuilding the warm-water fishery continues, but fishing for bass, catfish, panfish and wipers still is a year or two away.
Pueblo Reservoir — Fishing for walleyes and wipers has been fairly good, and some have been nice-sized. Walleyes are in 20-30 feet of water and have been taking worms and leeches off the points. Wipers are most active very early in the morning and late afternoon into the evening. Minnows jigs and streamer flies all have worked to some extent. Bass have been mostly small. The level is the best in recent years and still rising. 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. Catch rates will be high, but most bass will be under 15 inches. Catfish numbers are low to moderate but many are good-sized.
Quail Lake — The Colorado Springs city lake has been stocked with catchable-size trout, and fishing for 9- to 10-inch fish has been good the past few months. An occasional larger trout also has been taken. The lake also has a variety of warm-water fish, including largemouth bass, catfish and bluegills. Fishing for them has been slow but should improve with warmer water temperatures.
Queens Reservoirs — Upper and Lower Queens reservoirs are dry.
Rampart Reservoir — The main access road and other facilities are open for the season. Fishing for decent-sized rainbow trout and an occasional mackinaw has been fair to good. Mornings appear to be the best times. Excellent water levels are expected in 2007. The lake is heavily stocked with rainbow trout and also has mackinaw. Fishing for mackinaw from shore is especially good soon after ice-out. 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 12 months a year. Fishing for catchable-sized trout should be fairly good through the spring, early summer and fall. The lake also has some catfish that can grow to impressive size.
Skaguay Reservoir — Shoreline fishing for trout up to 15 inches has been fair to good. Green Power Bait recently has produced the best results. Fishing pressure during the week has been light. The water level is very 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 required. The creek below the dam offers fishing for brown trout.
South Platte River (btwn Spinney and Elevenmile) — Flows and water temperatures are increasing. The average flows from the past week were around 300 cfs. Though conditions have been demanding, some good-sized trout still are being reported. Pheasant Tail nymphs, caddis and San Juan Worms have been effective in the higher water, along with the usual midges. Some Trico mayfly activity also has been noted. Many of the fishermen are catching trout in the 12- to 18-inch range. Fishermen may use only artificial flies and lures below Spinney, and catch-and-release rules apply. As usual, this area attracts large crowds.
South Platte River, Deckers area — Flows below Cheesman Dam remain high. On Tuesday the volume was 618 cfs. Though somewhat turbid, the water through Cheesman Canyon generally is fishably clear, though wading can be tricky. San Juan worms and scud patterns may take some fish, and midge activity around the edges of the main current is possible. A small nymph or midge emerger trailing a San Juan worm or larger Pheasant Tail can be an effective rig. The river gains sediment from tributaries, and below Deckers it becomes virtually unfishable.
South Platte River, Elevenmile Canyon — With flows at 292 cfs on Tuesday, fishing has been good but not great. Caddis in sizes 16-18 are very active, hatching in the mornings and afternoons. Fly patterns imitating caddis pupae, larvae and adults all have been effective. Tricos have not yet been evident.
Spinney Mountain Reservoir — Fishing at Spinney is really good right now. Fishing at Spinney is by artificial flies and lures only, with a bag and possession limit of one trout at least 20 inches long. Chironomidae midges and Callibaetis mayflies have been evident on the water. The water is high and a little roily in the upper end. Both boat ramps are open. Fishing has been good throughout the day, with average trout catches in the 18- to 22-inch range. The most successful flies have been various nymphs, scud patterns and streamers. As usual, tube jigs 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 — Fishing for trout has been very good on worms fished off the bottom and Kastmaster lures. The creek above and below the reservoir is high and discolored and expected to remain that way another two weeks. Some discoloration has been evident in the upper end of the lake. 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 around 864 surface acres. The surface temperature is 65-70 degrees, with subsurface temperatures around 60-65. Fishing has remained very good the past week. Trout fishing is very good with several in the 16- to 20-inch range. Catfish remain good primarily from shore. Bass, walleyes and perch are still good, with quite a few bass and walleyes over the 15- inch minimum-size limit. A few wipers at various places on the lake still are being seen. Anglers are reminded to check for special limits on bass and walleyes at Trinidad Lake. Boaters use caution as there is still some floating debris in the lake. Road construction on the dam may cause intermittent closures at south shore and the boat ramp. Contact Trinidad Lake State Park at (719) 846-6951 for information.
Turks Pond — Well repairs have helped improve the water level at Turks Pond. A new boat ramp extension was added last summer. Fishing has been slow to fair for catfish. A few crappie and wipers also have been caught, but fishing for them has been slow.
Turquoise Lake — Fishing for mostly small lake trout remains good. Large crankbaits, spoon-type lures and sucker-tipped Gitzits have been working well. Turquoise has an abundant population of lake trout, but many are small, less than 20 inches. Fishing for mackinaw usually is good from the south and east shores from ice-out through June, when they move into deeper water and deep-trolling gear is the key to catching them. The bag and possession limit is two lake trout. The lake also has rainbow trout and an occasional large brown. Stocking of catchable-szed trout will increase this summer. Two boat ramps are available.
Twin Lakes — The water level is high, and fishing for rainbow trout from the shore and boats has been fair to good on salmon eggs, night crawlers, Dardevles and Krocodiles. The channel connecting the lakes and the west end of the upper lake have been productive. Occasional lake trout still are being taken around the power plant and the inlet to the lower lake, but most have moved into deeper water. Deep-trolling with Flatfish has taken a few. The mackinaw population continues to rebound, with the average size approaching 20 inches and some approaching 40. Fishing for rainbow trout averaging 12 inches but running up to 20 also has improved in recent years. Catchable-sized trout are stocked through the summer.
Twin Lakes (Mt. Elbert) Forebay — Fishing for rainbow trout and occasional mackinaw remains fair to good in the forebay just to the north of Twin Lakes. Dardevles, Kastmasters 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. Recent stockers average 11 inches, but surviving fish are around 15. 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 — Fishing for rainbow trout remains good. Anglers have been using a variety of nymphs, light-green flies and Pistol Petes. Fishermen may use only artificial flies and lures. Boats with motors are prohibited. To the south of Walsenburg, the roads to Blue and Bear lakes and the upper Huerfano River have opened and the lakes have been stocked. Fishing on the state wildlife area segment of the river has been good for brown trout on worms. A flies-and-lures restriction applies to the upper river, where fishing has been fair.
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. No fish-consumption advisories are in effect.
Southwest
Animas River — The river is dropping and the water is clearing. A big caddis hatch has started and fishing is excellent with dark-colored nymphs and dry flies in the evening. During the day, try dark-colored Woolly Bugger and sculpin streamer 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 — Salmon are fishing well, with limits being caught in Cebolla and Sapinero basins at 3-4 colors of lead-core line, or 15 to 20 feet. Lake trout fishing is slow. Look for them from 80 to 100 feet now, and try trolling large Rapalas or jigging with tube jigs. Browns and rainbows are being caught by trolling from 30 to 45 feet with cow bells and worms or Rapalas. Perch fishing is picking up in any of the shallow bays around the lake using small jigs or worms.
Conejos County (high country lakes) — The high lakes are opening up. Conditions are changing daily. Some of the lower elevation lakes are accessible and fishing good. Expect to cross snow drifts along trails on routes to higher-elevation lakes.
Conejos County (small streams) — Most streams are open and are fishing fair to good, but a few remain inaccessible because of snow. Flows are high because of runoff. Conditions are changing daily. A few small streams in Conejos County are native cutthroat trout waters that have special fishing regulations, so please consult your 2007 fishing regulations directory.
Conejos River — The Conejos is open and accessible from Mogote to Platoro. However, fishing is poor because of high water levels. The river has been running high and murky. Anglers should check local stream flows prior to fishing the Conejos. Fishing for trout will improve after runoff. Angling pressure has been light. 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 fair to good over the weekend, with perch, trout, catfish, crappie and some nice-sized bass being caught. Water temperatures continue to climb and are in the low 70s The lake remains pretty full, as the big draw on the water has not started yet. The time is right to try some fishing.
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, though fast, and fishing is good with nymphs, emerger patterns and dry flies. Fishing will improve as the level continues to drop.
East River — Flows continue to come down, and Tuesday morning were 465 cfs at Almont. Wading still is tricky, but weighted nymphs and streamer flies can take some fish in the quieter water off the main currents. Dry fly fishermen might find some caddis activity and some terrestrials may be on the water.
Echo Canyon Reservoir — The lake has been stocked with catchable-sized trout, and fishing for them has been fair to good. Fishing is only fair now because the water is warming up. Fishing is best in the morning and evening with worms, Power Bait, small spinners and dry flies. The lake also has warm-water fish including largemouth bass, which typically become more active a little later in the season. Weed growth can become a problem later in the summer.
Gunnison River (below Crystal Dam) — Flows are at 472 cfs. The water’s been off-color because of high flows from the Cimarron into Crystal Reservoir. Stoneflies still were providing action from Chukar up through Warner last week. Many anglers back to using typical nymphs, with some good caddis and PMD hatches. Try yellow and melon-quill patterns in sizes 16-18. Yellow Sallies have been fun, but are running out of steam. When in doubt, go deep.
Gunnison River (through the canyon) — The flow in the Gunnison Gorge has been around 472 cfs. Caddis are still coming off, and Yellow Sallies, PMDs and flying ants are hot right now. Fishing has been great from the Smith Fork downstream to Pleasure Park. The North Fork now 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 was flowing at 1,050 cfs on Tuesday, still a bit high but fishable. Float fishing has been the most effective approach to the big river, but some decent wade fishing has been reported around the Cooper and Neversink areas. Weighted nymphs, wet flies and streamers have been most effective, but some surface activity in the quieter water off the main currents is possible. Silver-bladed Mepps spinners also have been effective.
Jackson Gulch Reservoir — Rainbow trout have been stocked, and fishing conditions are very good. The water level remains near capacity, but has stabilized. 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 (salmon eggs and Power Bait) fished just off bottom, as well as small crankbaits and in-line 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, flooded timber. The boat ramp is open, and camping 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 is high but 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 the fishing has been fair for brook trout and splake. Fishing pressure has been light. 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 above Vallecito Reservoir has dropped, and fishing with emergers, nymphs and dry flies is good. This section of river, however, gets substantial pressure. Access below the reservoir is limited by private property.
McPhee Reservoir — The water level is starting to drop, the water remains cold and fish are dispersed. Anglers report good success for trout on spinners and Rapalas, Power Bait and worms. Bass fishing should improve as the lake level drops and the water temperature rises. 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.
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 at 6075.49 feet. The water temperature on the Colorado side is 57 degrees. Crappie have become active at the Navajo State Park breakwater, in the coves near the boat ramp and near the tire structure. They’ve been taking jigs and plastic grubs, with chartruese and blue among the preferred colors. The northern pike and largemouth and smallmouth bass also have been picking up lakewide on spinners. Pike are biting on anything chartreuse. Kokanee-salmon fishing has picked up on the New Mexico side of the lake between Francis Canyon and the San Juan arm, along the canyon wall. Fish are down about 3 1/2 colors of lead-core line.
Piedra River — The level is dropping and the water is clearing. Fishing is good with spinners, nymphs and emerger patterns, and dry flies.
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. A boat ramp is being constructed near the dam. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of June. The primitive old boat ramp will be inaccessible while the new one is being constructed. Launching a boat will be difficult during construction.
Ridgway Fishing Ponds — Last Saturday’s Huck Finn Day was great, with several kids catching fish. The ponds were stocked on June 13, so plenty of fish remain to be caught. The fish were 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 — With the warm weather, the lake is almost full from runoff. Rainbow trout are biting on pretty much anything. Fishing is best around the boat ramp. The salmon are being caught along the face of the dam. The lake has received its allotment of stocked trout for the spring, some 65,000 10-inch rainbows.
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 — Most of the high country lakes are free of ice and access is good, although hikers might still encounter some large snow fields. High-mountain streams also are clear - though still running fast. Use spinners, nymphs, grasshoppers and dry flies. Anglers report fishing as good to excellent in the high country. still covered with ice and access generally remains difficult. Small creeks are swollen with runoff. Conditions will improve by early July.
San Juan River — The spring runoff is over and the water level is dropping. The water is still running fast, but early summer hatches are in action. Nymphs and emergers are good bets. 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.
Smith Reservoir (San Luis Valley) — Fishing was reported as good to excellent for rainbow trout running 12-16 inches using bait and lures from boats and shore. The best fishing has been early and late in the day.
Taylor Reservoir — The water is very high and has covered many familiar fishing areas. Trolling for rainbow trout has been good at 20-25 feet on cow bells with worms, Rapalas and other crankbaits. Occasional nice-sized brown trout also have been taken. Lake trout are at 30 t0 75 feet. Flatfish and large Rapalas have been effective trolling lures. Fly fishing has been picking up for trout and northern pike. Bead-head Price Nymphs and elk-hair caddis have been popular patterns, in addition to Muddler Minnows, Woolly Buggers and pike streamers. A recent pike tournament was won by a 14.1-pound northern taken by trolling; the quantity category was won by a fly fisherman.
Taylor River — Flows have dropped a little, and on Tuesday were 582 cfs at Almont. Wading the lower river at that flow remains challenging. Below Taylor Dam, Monday’s flow was 450 cfs. Above Almont, No. 8-12 stonefly nymphs, No. 14-20 Pheasant Tails, Prince Nymphs and midges have been taking some fish. Caddis hatches are possible, and some terrestrial insects may be on the water. Woolly Buggers and other streamers 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 good for brown trout and fair for rainbows. Fishing is usually excellent in the early summer, after ice-off. Fishing pressure has been light to moderate. Effective methods for trout at Trujillo Meadows have been worms and lures in brown- and rainbow- trout colors.
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 flows are picking up and have been around 650 cfs. The spring runoff is under way. Fishing has slowed down. Fly fishermen report that the bigger the fly, the better under the current conditions. 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 has been excellent. Use spinners, Power Bait or dry flies. Northern pike fishing is good using Rapalas and large streamer flies. Through a change in stocking policy, larger (12-inch) trout were stocked last fall in hopes of reducing predation by northern pike. That approach has been effective in other waters having both trout and pike. Fishing for both species and for kokanee salmon should be better after the water has warmed up a little. The DOW is conducting a creel census at Vallecito this year. Anglers are asked to cooperate. A mercury advisory has been issued for northern pike from the lake.
Williams Creek Reservoir — Fishing for trout has been good in the morning and evening. As the water is warming up, action in midday is slow. Use worms, Power Bait, small spinners and dry flies. The fishing on the creek below the reservoir is good with small flies and spinners.

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