Colorado Hunting News

Water temperatures are warming on many lakes and reservoirs, sending trout and kokanee salmon into deeper water for longer periods of time. Consequently, fishing for trout has become more of a morning-and-evening routine on many popular lakes.

The same pattern also applies to warm-water fishing. While walleyes, white bass, wipers and other species remain active, many fish have distinct feeding times, with notable lulls between peak periods. Early mornings and late afternoons also are the best times for fishing on warm-water lakes, and wipers and catfish often are most active after dark.

Water levels on some irrigation reservoirs have begun dropping to meet summer demands, but virtually all still have adequate levels for decent fishing. Boat launching still is possible on most impoundments, but may be problematic on some. Nee Noshe Reservoir in southeast Colorado is inaccessible to larger boats, but with some care, smaller craft still can be launched. Bonny Reservoir near the Kansas border also has low water, but at last report most small boats and pontoons still could be launched. A draw down of Clear Creek Reservoir is under way, but for the time being, the boat ramp still is accessible.

Stream fishermen are finding good conditions virtually statewide. A few, such as the Arkansas and lower Colorado rivers remain high but have been dropping. Many others, including the White and Yampa in northwestern Colorado are at levels typical later in the season, stirring some concerns about potential low flows as the summer goes on.

Summer hatches are under way on most. Trico mayflies have appeared on the “Dream Stream” segment of the South Platte River between Spinney Mountain and Elevenmile reservoirs. Trico activity will continue well into the summer. Pale-morning-dun mayflies also are common, on many rivers, along with several varieties of summertime caddis and little yellow stoneflies.

As the Tricos are the signature summertime hatch of the South Platte, green drakes, the largest of the mayflies, are the prime seasonal attraction on other rivers including the Roaring Fork, Frying Pan, upper Gunnison, Taylor and Rio Grande. Drake activity generally moves upstream and often continues into August.

Summer also is the time to visit the high country. Alpine lakes are free of ice and accessible. Though high-lake fishing often runs hot-or-cold, their setting, alone, is worth the trek. Mountain creeks and beaver ponds are in prime condition, though some mosquito repellent might be in order.

ANTERO OPENING

Antero Reservoir will reopen to fishing at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, July 16.

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.

LIGHNING AWARENESS

Summertime fishing also is the time for summer thunderstorms, complete with lightning and possibly heavy rain. Colorado is among the top states in the country for recorded lightning strikes. Lightning poses some special hazards to fishermen, especially if they are on or near large bodies of water, on exposed hillsides, or carrying graphite fishing rods.

When thunderheads are building up, it’s best to get off the water quickly. Seek appropriate shelter, but avoid tall objects such as trees. If necessary, lie flat on the ground under low-profile brush until the storm passes. Don’t carry graphite rods or aluminum rod cases; leave them on the ground, find shelter and return for them later.

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.

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

Arkansas River #3B Pueblo

Bellaire Lake NW of Rustic

Chatfield Reservoir Littleton

De Weese Reservoir N of Westcliffe

Fetcher City Pond Steamboat Springs

Georgetown Lake Georgetown

Glacier Springs Ret Pond Grand Mesa

Irwin Lake W of Crested Butte

Lost Lake Slough SE of Somerset

Monument Lake Monument

Quartz Creek W of Parlin

Rosemont Reservoir E of Cripple Creek

Runyon Lake Pueblo

San Isabel Lake NW of Rye

Teal Lake W of Coalmont

Tiago Lake W of Coalmont

Twin Lake #2, South Grand Mesa

Vela Reservoir Grand Mesa

Water Dog Reservoir Grand Mesa

Yankee Doodle Lake NW of Tolland

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 68 degrees. Trout fishing is good, and is best in the mornings 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 is 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 good. However, most are under the legal size limit. Most walleyes are being caught using bottom bouncers with crawlers, jigs or spoons. Wiper action is slow. Some perch reportedly are being caught on crawlers and 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 is high. Trout are hitting Power Bait off the bottom; minnows are taking just about everything. Catfish are going for large dead shiners off the bottom.
Bear Creek — The river remains a little high. Fish the edges with olive Woolly Buggers or dry flies with droppers.
Bear Creek Reservoir — Fishing in the reservoir has been good. Rainbow trout have been caught on rainbow Power Bait or salmon eggs. Some smallmouth bass have been caught 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 — Bass are close to shore. Use a large shiner or a fat worm right off the bank. High noon has been the best time.
Chatfield Reservoir — A lot of the walleyes are around to be caught, and some will be within the 18- to 21-inch slot provision. Boaters working the dam face with Rapalas should do all right. The spillway remains a great place to get a limit, but it’s hit-or-miss.
Cherry Creek Reservoir — Boaters are hitting walleyes off the face of the dam using Rapalas 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 may be high; use caution. Fish the edges with black Woolly Buggers or attractor 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 — The lake has been stocked with trout. Fish a Rooster Tail around the inlet for some good-sized trout and watch for the muskies.
Georgetown Lake — Catching trout here is little problem. Use chartreuse Power Bait off the bottom or a night crawler broken in half; you might catch a limit by noon.
Gross Reservoir — The inlet has always been a good area to fish for trout, but look to the shallow bays for tiger muskies. Try dead shiners off the bottom close to shore.
Jim Baker Reservoir — Trout have been hitting Woolly Worms and minnows off a bobber. The catfish should be hitting in earnest any day. Use a large dead shiner off the bottom; they won’t pass it up.
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. Overall, fishing is best early and late. Trout fishing is fair 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 on 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 — Trout have been hitting minnows off a red-and-white bobber. Power Bait is also a great bet.
Sloans Lake — Place a night crawler around the weed line to seek out the big bass. Trout should be an easy bet.
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. 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 around 70 degrees. Trout fishing has slowed, but a few continue to be caught with Power Bait and salmon eggs fished off the bottom from the shore. Boaters are still having good success trolling for walleyes, wipers, trout and bass using a variety of spoons and spinners. A few 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 — 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 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 — Fishing for catchable-sized rainbow trout has been very good on spinners and the typical baits. Fishing for mackinaw has slowed, but a few still are taken. The bag and possession limit for lake trout and splake in Lower Big Creek Lake 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 128 cfs. Pale morning duns and green drakes have been very good. 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 an ideal bait. Inquire in Estes Park for more details.
Boedecker Reservoir — Bass are still in the shallows hitting shiners below a bobber. Spinnerbaits with rabbit hair are also picking up a few.
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 has receded a little, visibility into the water is 2-3 feet and the temperature is around 77 degrees. Timing is the key to fishing success. The action for white bass, walleyes and perch has been hot-or-cold, but persistent fishermen still are doing OK. The best activity has been in the evenings, when white bass are chasing baitfish or a mild chop is on the water. Trolling for walleyes remain fairly good and 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 3,500 catchable-sized trout. Walleye fishing has been excellent on the west side between Carter Knolls and Dam 1. Walleye fishing is best using Flatfish, crawler harnesses and pink Wedding Rings.
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. The water level has dropped, exposing large patches of aquatic vegetation. Consequently, surface lures, flies and poppers are about the only way to go, but fishing for small largemouth bass, bluegills and crappie has been excellent. Late afternoon into the evening has been the most productive time. Belly-boating through the weeds can be difficult; small boats or canoes may be the best approach.
Douglas Reservoir — For wipers, use a Rapala to locate them. Then vertical jig a Mister Twister tipped with a leech. Trout are hitting salmon eggs close to the boat ramp.
Dowdy Lake (Red Feather) — As the summer temperatures are rising, this is a great place to locate some nice trout. Use Power Bait from shore and Kastmasters from a boat, casting back toward shore.
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 has been fishing very 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 also can be good with a worm or Power Bait.
Flatiron Reservoir — Fishing is good. Fishing is best using salmon eggs, worms, and orange Power Bait.
Hidden Lakes — The lakes are free of ice and the road is open. U.S. Forest Service campgrounds are available.
Hohnholz Lakes — Lake No. 3 is on for browns and big rainbows. The fish are big and hungry. Fish with a black Woolly Bugger or a copper-colored spoon. This is an artificial-fly-and-lure-only lake, but the fish are big.
Horsetooth Reservoir — The water level has dropped a little but fishing remains quite good. Smallmouth bass still are 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, as well as during the nighttime in the South Bay area. Nice-size crappie have also been caught during the night in Inlet Bay. Points off the coves have shown good results for bass and walleyes. Silver Rat-L-Traps and light-colored (white) Mister Twisters are still a good bet. The water temperature is in the upper 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 is fair for wipers and slow for all other species. Wiper catches have been reported from the dam and north side of boat ramp using worms and crawdad tails. A few trout are also being caught from the north shore using salmon eggs, Power Bait and worms. The reservoir level is still at full capacity.
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’s water level is lowering slightly but all the boat ramps are in the water and accessible. Trout fishing is fair, mainly on lures. 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 — Fish are taking small Pheasant Tail nymphs and RS-2s. The best fishing is reported around the camping area.
Lon Hagler Reservoir — Fishing for wipers and white bass has slowed, though a few still are taken late in the day. Fishing for 2- to 3-pound catfish has been fairly good at night on the traditional catfish baits.
Lonetree Reservoir — Fishing for bass remains good for quality if not for quantity, and wipers have been active at sunset and into the night. The best bass action also has been late in the day. Fishing for walleyes has been slow. 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 a few feet down and the outlet is running. Wiper fishing is still fair along the south end of the dam and around the south boat ramp, 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) — Using gold Kastmasters along the south side should produce some nice browns. A large Prince Nymph also will pick up the trout.
Pinewood Reservoir — Pinewood was recently stocked. Fisherman’s Cove remains the most reliable spot. Salmon eggs and rainbow Power Bait have been working best.
Poudre River — The Poudre, though still a little high, has been dropping and clarity has returned. Edges and pockets off the main current remain the best areas to fish. A few golden stoneflies still are evident, along with pale-morning-dun mayflies and caddis. Look for green drakes to appear in some sections of the river in a week or two.
Prewitt Reservoir — The reservoir is still full. The inlet ditch is no longer running. The boat dock is in. Catfish and wipers have slowed down. Fishing is fair for walleyes but most are below the 15-inch minimum. 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 — Rocky is fishing very well. The Big Thompson in Moraine is flowing at 79 cfs and other streams are dropping, too. Stoneflies, caddis and pale morning duns are the main hatches, with drakes showing on overcast days. 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 drakes, size 12 Wulffs, Ice Drakes or Crown Jewels are a good bet. 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 — Look shallow for bass; they’re still close to shore. A simple crawler on a hook will provoke a bite. Buzzbaits after dark also are a good bet. A minnow off a bobber will do the trick on recently stocked trout.
Seymour Reservoir — The lake has been stocked with catchable-sized trout. A habitat stamp is required of everyone visiting the state wildlife area.
Simpson Ponds — With good water levels and suitable temperatures, the ponds still 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 — The Vrain is in great shape, running at 197 cfs at Lyons. PMD, stonefly and caddis imitators are good bets - try PMD dries such as Thorax, Parachute or Hatchmasters in 16-20; nymphs in 16-18. 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 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. 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, especially late at night. Shore fishermen are still 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. Trout are still being caught trolling in deeper water. The reservoir remains full.
Watson Lake — Kastmasters are the key to catching trout here. Bass should hit black jigs.
Wellington Reservoir #4 — Trout are after salmon eggs off the bottom. A big worm will work, also. Kastmasters fished close to shore also are doing the job. Recently stocked, the lake should make for a nice day fishing.
Northwest
Blue River (below Green Mountain Reservoir) — Flows below Green Mountain Dam on Tuesday morning were 652 cfs, still a little above optimal for fishing. 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.) — Two words: Green drakes. Over the July 4th week, the Blue dropped to a flow of 233 and on Tuesday was 205. With the drop in flow came an explosion of hatches - PMDs in the morning, green drakes in the middle of the day, and caddis in the evening. Green drakes have been seen within a mile of the Silverthorne city limits, with some reports of success in town on drake dries. Still, fish midges and Mysis in town, but be sure to have a few PMD dries and nymphs, as well as some drakes. Downstream, throw an assortment of PMD, drake and caddis patterns, and you should be able to turn a few fish throughout the day.
Colorado River (below Parshall) — The flow at Parshall, below the Williams Fork confluence, on Tuesday was 630 cfs. Near Kremmling, below the Blue River confluence, the volume was 1,450 cfs. Look for caddis activity and some mayfly hatches late in the day. Attractor dry flies and streamers also can be effective, as can Mepps and Panther Martin spinners.
Colorado River (Glenwood to Rifle) — The Colorado River is fishing poorly right now, as visibility has been limited to less than a foot. As conditions improve, look for fish to respond in a big way.
Colorado River (near Granby) — Flows on Sunday were 362 cfs below Windy Gap, 108 cfs below the Williams Fork near Parshall and 1,480 cfs on the Colorado near Kremmling. Fishing has been very good. Caddis, mosquito and many other dry patterns have been working, as well as the normal wet flies such as Prince Nymphs, RS-2s and Copper Johns. San Juan worms and egg patterns are still highly productive. Make sure you have insect repellent; the real “bugs” out there are very hungry. 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 — Fishing along the Crystal River has been fair near Carbondale. Good hatches of caddis are being seen daily, with sporadic hatches of green drakes and stoneflies. Nymph fishing during midday has been good using beadhead Princes, Copper Johns, 20 -Inchers, Tungsten Z-Wing Caddis and STDs. Look for some very good dry fly fishing in the evenings using various attractor patterns such as Pearl and Elk Caddis, Ethawing Caddis, Stimulators, BDE Drakes, and H&L Variants.
Elk River — The Elk has come down, cleared and is fishing well. Caddis and Yellow Sally stoneflies have been the primary hatches. Look for grasshoppers and other terrestrials to be on the water soon.
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 River has been fishing exceptionally well. River flows are at 190 cfs, clear and ideal for fishing. The first wave of green drakes are along the lower half of the river and the fishing couldn’t be any better. Along the entire river, solid hatches of PMDs and caddis are taking place. Hot fly patterns include: drake cripples, BDE Drakes, H&Ls, PMD Pink Sparkleduns, PMD cripples, PTs, STDs, Halfback Emergers and rusty spinners. The evening “power hour” has been very good with the rusty spinner fall.
Granby Reservoir — The holiday week went well, with many people fishing. Most caught fish and had an enjoyable time. Stream inlets flowing into the lake are still 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 producing fish. 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. Trolling is also productive. Inquire in Granby for updates.
Green Mountain Reservoir — Fishing is better in the early morning or evening hours; it slows during the heat of the day. Kokannee salmon are being caught down at about 30-40 feet by trolling.
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 — Recent sampling by the DOW found a number of largemouth bass weighing more than 3.5 pounds and a multitude of crappie. The crappie aren’t large, but they can be steadily caught throughout the day. Not many folks have been out fishing, but the few that have enjoyed great success. Catfish, bass and crappie all are biting. The water temperature is over 70 degrees. 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 — Trout have moved into deeper water, and boat fishermen have been having a little better success than bank fishermen. Rainbow or pink Power Bait remains the most consistent. Spin fishermen are doing OK on red-and-white and copper-colored spoons.
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. Fishermen say trout are biting every time they cast their line at 7 a.m., but by 9 a.m. they are done. The bass also are biting, with several 14-inchers having been caught. 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 been at 50 cfs and clarity is good. Fishing with flies and spinners has been very good.
Pearl Lake — Fishing has picked up. The best time to try is late evening. Try Woolly Buggers or crankbaits that imitate immature rainbows.
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 — Several bass in the 4- to 5-pound range have been reported during the past week. Yellow, white and chartreuse buzzbaits have produced topwater action for bass early and late in the day. Some panfish and occasional hammer-handle northern pike also have been taken.
Roaring Fork River — The Roaring Fork River continues to be red hot. Very good hatches of green drakes are taking place daily from Snowmass downstream to Carbondale. Caddis, PMDs and rusty spinners are out in good numbers during afternoons and early evenings, as well. Hot flies include: Royal Wulffs, BDE drakes, drake cripples, rusty spinners, Ethawing Caddis, Princes, 20-Inchers, red Copper Johns and Pheasant Tails.
Shadow Mountain Reservoir — The holiday week saw this area heavily fished, but it remains highly productive. 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 still slow, but some fish are being caught across the lake on Power Bait, Rooster Tails, Kastmasters, Dardevles, Panther Martins and other small spinners. Northerns are being caught across the lake in 10-20 feet of water by bouncing tube jigs in baitfish or crawdad colors off the bottom. One gentleman caught a 22.2-pound pike last weekend in 10 feet of water near Pike Cove. In the tailwaters, trout fishing still is very good. The water is flowing a little faster, but using small (No. 18-22) midge patterns, scuds, RS-2s, Copper Johns, red San Juan worms and nymphs will produce some fish. Early morning and before-dark hatches have been occurring, resulting in some good dry fly fishing. For more information, visit www.parks.state.co.us
Steamboat Lake — Fishing has picked up. Fish are aggressively hitting 1/6-ounce Rooster Tails with dark colors. Tube jigs, Panther Martins and silver spoons also might work well. Darker colors that mimic crawdads, live bait and especially Power Bait have seen success. Black Woolly Buggers may work at Rainbow Ridge and Meadow Point. The dam area continues to fish well. Sage Flats in early morning hours may produce limit catches. Nice-sized fish are still being taken from the lake.
Sylvan Lake — Fishing at Sylvan Lake is excellent. Rainbow, brown and brook trout are biting on worms, Power Bait, spinners and flies.
Trappers Lake — Fishing for cutthroat trout has slowed down, but remains at least fair. Mosquito patterns, Royal Wulffs, Royal Coachmen and bead-head Prince Nymphs have been among the most productive flies. Spin fishermen have been taking some trout on pearl-finish and black-and-white spoons. 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 good the past week. Anglers have been having luck with Panther Martins, Power Bait and blue Flatfish lures. Daytime temperatures have been reaching the low 90s, dropping into the low to mid-50s at night. The lake is no longer spilling.
White River — The river is low and clear. Fishing in the mornings and late afternoons has been good. Caddis and Parachute Adams dry flies have been effective, as have hopper patterns. Rainbow-colored Panther Martin spinners also have been working well.
Williams Fork River — Tuesday’s flow below Williams Fork Reservoir was a nearly perfect 215 cfs. Nymphs and San Juan worms drifted through the heads of runs and edges of the main currents still can be effective, and look for mixed hatches of midges, caddis, and blue-wing-olive, pale morning dun and red quill mayflies, especially in late afternoon. Overcast days generally are best.
Willow Creek Reservoir — Shoreline fishermen are still reporting good success for trout and trolling is producing results, even though hot daytime temperatures make it more difficult. 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 at full capacity. Warmer (70 degree) water temperatures have pushed fish into deeper water. Fishing for rainbow and brown trout has been best around the north inlet on shining red/chrome and rainbow-colored lures. Trolling for kokanee salmon with leaded line in about 75 feet of water (five colors) has been most productive near the dam. Needlefish, Tasmanian Devils and Kastmasters have been effective lures. Fishing below the spillway has been excellent with the reduced water flow using spinners and flies.
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 is low and clear, and fishing has been good. Pale morning duns, caddis and Yellow Sally stoneflies all have been coming off. Fishing generally is best from 8:30 a.m. to noon, before the heat of the day. Most evenings see a good spinnerfall, however. 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) — Blue Lake is currently full, but irrigation releases have begun, so the lake will drop quickly. The high-water boat ramps are currently in service. Fishing has been slow for catfish. Fishing for crappie has been spotty, with some periods of fairly good activity being reported.
Antero Reservoir — The South Park reservoir on the South Fork of the South Platte River will reopen to fishing at 9 a.m. on Tuesday. The bag and possession limit is four trout, of which only one can exceed 16 inches. The Denver Water reservoir was drained in 2002 during the recent extreme drought. It has refilled, and the DOW has been stocking thousands of rainbow, brown, brook, cutthroat trout and splake for more than a year to re-establish a premier fishery for the angling public.
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 is down to around 1,300 cfs, with water conditions much improved. 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 in Browns Canyon were 1,000 cfs on Sunday and clarity is very good. Fish are feeding on Yellow Sallies and pale morning duns, but will hit many attractor combinations presented with a natural drift. Flows should continue to recede during the week, making wade fishing even more effective.
Arkansas River (Leadville to Buena Vista) — Flows on the upper river on Sunday were 220 cfs at Hayden Meadows, 660 cfs at Granite and 815 above Buena Vista. Clarity is great throughout this reach. Yellow Sally stoneflies and pale- morning-dun mayflies have been hatching daily, along with a good evening emergence of caddis. In addition to imitations of these hatches, dry-dropper rigs utilizing attractor patterns are doing well.
Arkansas River (Salida to Canon City) — As of Sunday, the Arkansas River through Bighorn Sheep Canyon was flowing at 1,020 cfs at Wellsville and 1,120 cfs at Parkdale. Visibility has improved tremendously since last Thursday’s storm and fish have resumed feeding aggressively. Yellow Sally stoneflies and pale-morning-dun mayflies are very active now, along with a good evening caddis emergence.
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 during the summer. Boaters have access near the south end of the dam. Only electric motors may be used.
Bonny Reservoir — Fishing has slowed a bit because of the heat. A fair number of 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 17 inches deep. Most small boats and a few pontoons can be launched at the ramp.
Catamount Reservoirs, North & South — Fishing has been very good, due in part to recent stocking, and crowds have been quite large. Anglers still are taking 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 will be closed July 21 for 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 early in the morning, but the catch rate has not been especially high.
Clear Creek Reservoir — Fishing remains fair to good. The draw down for maintenance work on the dam has begun, but the lake remains fishable and the boat ramp still is accessible. In the interest of public safety, the area will be closed to all access beginning Aug. 1. The target date for reopening is Dec. 15.
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. Some late-afternoon surface activity has been reported.
Crystal Creek Reservoir — Fishing for catchable-sized trout remains fair to good on a variety of baits and lures. Power Bait, salmon eggs and worms all have taken fish. Kastmasters, Dardevles and Panther Martin spinners have been effective lures. Fly-bubble rigs have worked well 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.
Elevenmile Reservoir — Overall trout-fishing success is slow to 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 picked up for the boaters. The salmon are being caught between depths of 20 and 30 feet. Northern pike fishing is great, 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, 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-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 81 degrees. Trout fishing is slowing down. Fishing for warm-water species is starting to pick up. Fishing for catfish still is 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 — Paving operations are complete and the road is paved all the way to the boat ramp parking lot. Fishing for rainbow trout and small mackinaw from the shore generally has good. Night crawlers, black-and-white Dardevles and Kamlooper spoons have worked well. The lake typically offers 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. Campgrounds have been busy on weekends. Calling 1-877-444-6777 for reservations is suggested.
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 — With surface water temperatures around 80 degrees, trout fishing at both lakes and the nearby Hugo SWA ponds is essentially done for the summer. All also have most of the common warm-water species. Fishing for largemouth bass, bluegills and channel catfish has been slow during the day and fair in late afternoons into the night.
Lake Henry — Water levels at Henry currently are good. Fishing has improved for catfish and crappie. Catfish are being caught using the 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 — 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. 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 is slowing down. The lake has been stocked several times, and the kids’ pond also has been stocked with trout. The water temperature is about 76 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 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.
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. 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 slow for most species, but some spotty wiper and catfish action has been reported. Most fish are being caught on crawdad tails.
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 has improved for wipers, saugeye, and catfish. Boat fishermen have been successful casting or trolling jigs, and bank fishermen have had 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.
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 has slowed 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 but has slowed because of warming temperatures. 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 has slowed the past week or so, possibly due to heavy holiday week boat traffic and hot weather. Walleyes still are in 20-30 feet of water, and some may be taken on worms and leeches off the points. Wipers are most active very early in the mornings or after sundown, when the water is relatively calm. Bass have been mostly small. The water level remains the best in recent years. 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 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. Fishing for them has been fair early and late in the day.
Queens Reservoirs — Upper and Lower Queens reservoirs are dry.
Rampart Reservoir — Fishing for decent-sized rainbow trout and an occasional mackinaw has been fair, but recent stocking should improve the odds. Mornings and late afternoons have been 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 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 shore has been very good, with green and orange Power Bait working the best. 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) — The Trico hatch is occurring between 8:00 and 10:15 a.m. Pale morning duns have been coming off later, and many micro caddis are around. Flows are slowly dropping and temperatures are increasing. Average flows from the past week were 243 cfs. Though conditions have been demanding, some good-sized trout still are being reported. A good number of browns in the 10- to 18-inch range have been caught. Pheasant Tail nymphs, caddis and San Juan Worms have been effective in the higher water, along with the usual midges. 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 have been coming down. On Tuesday the volume was 441 cfs, still a bit high but fishable, and the water was clear. With warmer water temperatures, fish have been moving into riffles and faster runs. 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.
South Platte River, Elevenmile Canyon — The flow on Tuesday morning was an ideal 215 cfs. Fishing remains good, not great. Caddis in sizes 16-18 are hatching in the mornings and afternoons and the trout have been keyed in to them. Fly patterns imitating caddis pupae, larvae and adults all have been effective. At last report, Tricos had not appeared in significant numbers.
Spinney Mountain Reservoir — Spinney fishing has been great. 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, tricos,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 — Fishing for trout has been very good on worms fished off the bottom and Tasmanian Devils. Fly fishermen have enjoyed some good activity for rainbows and browns in the upper end of the lake on dameselfly and Callibaetis mayfly imitators. 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’s water level is around 850 surface acres and slowly dropping. The surface temperature is around 70-75 degrees, with subsurface temperatures 60-70 degrees. Fishing has been good, although the dropping lake levels and warm temperatures may have made it a little spotty at times. Trout fishing is still very good from shore or boats. Catfish fishing has been fair. Bass, walleyes and perch are still good. Several over the minimum length have been caught, but a lot of walleyes are undersized. Wipers and crappie have been slow. Anglers are reminded to check for special limits on bass and walleyes at Trinidad Lake. Boaters use caution because floating debris may be in the lake. Road construction on the dam is complete and the road is open.
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 to good for catfish and slow for all other species.
Turquoise Lake — Fishing for mostly small lake trout has slowed a little but remains fair to 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 into early July, when they move into deeper water and deep-trolling gear becomes 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 remains 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 blue or silver 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, 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. 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 is good. Expect to cross snow drifts along trails on routes to higher-elevation lakes.
Conejos County (small streams) — Most streams are open and fishing is fair to good, but a few remain inaccessible because of snow. 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. Fishing has been excellent for brown trout. Insect activity has been high. 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 fair over the weekend, with most species being caught. The size of fish being caught was reported as being average, and it seems the shore fishing was as good as the boat fishing. Water temperatures are still climbing a little and are in the 70s. The lake is still pretty full but has started dropping, going down 4-6 inches per day, so be advised if beaching your boat overnight, don’t pull it too high out of the water.
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 Monday afternoon were 230 cfs at Almont. Mixed hatches of caddis, stoneflies and mayflies have been noted. Midges come off in the mornings, followed by caddis, Yellow Sally stoneflies and some mayflies in the afternoon. Productive dry fly patterns include elk-hair caddis, Parachute Adams, Royal and yellow Humpies and Stimulators. For nymphs, try Princes, 20-Inchers and Pheasant Tails in a range of sizes.
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 took a jump up to 612 cfs last week. The water is Gunnison Green. Good caddis and PMD hatches are evident. Try yellow and melon-quill patterns in sizes 16-18. Some adult stones still are reported in the Portal. Tie on a big Stimulator as a strike indicator. Midges, especially a red midge, are doing well in the afternoon. A small dun body, dun wing, #20 is working well just before dark. Otherwise, try scuds in olive and orange, Copper Johns, PTs, Prince Nymphs, Poxyback Biot Stones and caddis emergers and adults.
Gunnison River (through the canyon) — The flow in the Gunnison Gorge is now 604 cfs. Hoppers, beadhead Prince Nymphs and mayflies are hot this week. San Juan Worms were also working well. Fishing has been hot the last couple days 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 808 cfs on Monday, a fishable level, and quite clear. Fishing has been good. Midges come off in the mornings, and caddis in the afternoons, but green drakes remain the prime attraction from Gunnison upstream to Almont. Drake-imitating dry flies are the obvious choice during the hatch; at other times try Prince Nymphs, Hare’s Ears Western Coachmen and similar patterns, often with weight on the leader. Streamer flies and silver-bladed spinners also can be productive. Wading the river still can be challenging; consider using a wading staff. Float trips provide another good option.
Jackson Gulch Reservoir — Rainbow trout have been stocked and fishing conditions are very good. The water level remains near capacity, but is starting to recede. 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 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. 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 69 degrees. Crappie action on minnows and grubs has slowed, but they are still biting. The northern pike and largemouth and smallmouth bass have been picking up lakewide on red crankbaits. Fishing is best in the early morning. 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. The water is very clear.
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. 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 — The ponds were stocked on June 13 and plenty of fish remain to be caught. 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 — With the warm weather, the lake is almost full from runoff. Rainbow trout are biting on pretty much anything. Fishing for them 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 on Monday were 512 cfs at Almont and 391 cfs below Taylor Dam. Wading the lower river at that flow still can be tricky. Midges, some blue-wing-olive mayflies and caddis are the main hatches, but look for green drakes to begin working their way upstream. Above Almont, No. 8-12 stonefly nymphs, No. 14-20 Pheasant Tails, Prince Nymphs and midges have the standard fly patterns. 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 usually is excellent in the early summer. 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 spring runoff has slowed down, so the river flows are being lowered. Local guides say the fishing has picked up again. 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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