Colorado Hunting News

Hot and dry, cool and rainy - fishing across Colorado is just about as variable as the weather. Hot daytime temperatures across much of the state were mixed with periods of sometimes heavy, localized rain and pleasantly cool evenings. Such trends are reflected in the fishing.

While major lakes, reservoir and streams are in a summer-fishing pattern, with the best activity likely early and late in the day, weather changes can temporarily change conditions.

Virtually all rivers are at summertime levels, afternoon rains can temporarily discolor the water, creating more difficult fishing. That has been the case along parts of the Arkansas River and several streams in southwestern Colorado.

Summer hatches on most rivers typically include scattered pale morning dun mayflies early in the day and caddis in the evenings. Terrestrial insect such as grasshoppers, beetles, crickets and ants often are on the water during the middle of the day, and fishing with large, terrestrial-imitating fly patterns can be very effective, especially in fast-water pockets and riffles. Spin-fishermen also can enjoy some good action in the faster water at various times of day.

As a rule, trout and kokanee salmon have moved into the deeper water of major reservoirs. Lake fishermen generally are trolling at greater depths for their fish, and commonly using downriggers or lead-core line. Trout still move into shallower water late in the day, as surface water temperatures drop, and may remain there into the morning, offering shoreline anglers some potentially good action.

The early-late routine also applies to warm-water fishermen. Wipers are the chief attraction on many reservoirs, and the powerful hybrids have started feeding on shad near the surface early in the morning. With daytime temperatures reaching 100 degrees in parts of the state, fishing hits a lull during the middle of the day. Catfish provide some good activity from late afternoon into the night.

In contrast to the lowlands, high-mountain lakes offer an escape from the summer heat. They are scattered at timberline and above in mountain ranges across Colorado and, though often temperamental, are in their prime during the summer. Many have native cutthroat trout; some have brook and rainbow trout. Virtually all are in spectacular mountain settings, which offer their own rewards. Many fishermen hike into high lakes primarily for the adventure and the setting, and if the fishing happens to be good, so much the better.

YAMPA RIVER VOLUNTARY CLOSURE

The Colorado Division of Wildlife is asking anglers to abide by a voluntary closure of the Yampa River from the upper boundary of the Chuck Lewis State Wildlife Area through the town of Steamboat Springs. The voluntary closure has been enacted to protect trout populations from high water temperatures and low stream flows.

The river currently is at 20 percent of its normal flow for this time of year and water temperatures are exceeding 70 degrees. Such conditions lower the dissolved oxygen levels in the water and stress trout. Additional stress from anglers makes the fish even more vulnerable to disease and death. To this point, no trout die-offs have been reported to the DOW.

“Anglers and guides have always been very cooperative in supporting these voluntary closures,” said Sherman Hebein, a senior fisheries biologist for the DOW. “They have the foresight to understand that these closures are in the best interest of keeping this a world-class fishery for years to come. In fact, many anglers, along with the town of Steamboat Springs, came to us to express their concern.”

FISH-RELEASING TIPS

With warm temperatures potentially stressing trout, catch-and-release anglers are encouraged to practice the following precautions:

Do not play the fish to exhaustion. Use as large a tippet as possible in order to land the fish quickly.

Keep the fish in the water as much as possible when handling and removing the hook.

Remove the hook gently and do not squeeze the fish or put your fingers in its gills.

If the fish is hooked deeply, cut the line. Do not attempt to remove the hook.

Release the fish only after its equilibrium is recovered.

Release the fish into the most oxygenated water possible.

LIGHTNING 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.

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.

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.

RECENT STOCKING

The following recently were stocked with catchable trout

Body of water Location

Andrews Lake SW of Silverton

Animas River #2 Above Durango

Bel Aire Ponds SW of Buford

Casey Pond SE of Steamboat Springs

Chalk Creek Lake W of Nathrop

Fellowship Camp Pond NW of Golden

Fetcher City Pond Steamboat Springs

Flatiron Reservoir NW of Berthoud

Fooses Lake W of Poncha Springs

Georgetown Lake Georgetown

Golden Gate State Park Lakes NW of Golden

Gypsum Ponds E of Gypsum

Hahns Peak Lake NW of Steamboat Springs

Mineral Creek, South W of Silverton

Molas Lake, Big S of Silverton

Mt. Elbert Forebay N of Twin Lakes

North Fork of Michigan River Lake NE of Gould

Pericles Pond Below Ridgway Dam

Pinewood Reservoir NW of Berthoud

Ranger Lake, Lower SE of Gould

Ranger Lake, Upper SE of Gould

Ridgway Reservoir N of Ridgway

Riverside Ponds Salida

San Cristobal Lake S of Lake City

San Juan River #2 Pagosa Springs to E&W Fork

San Juan River, East Fork S of Wolf Creek Pass

South Platte River #6 Above Lake George

Trent Pond Silverthorne

Trinidad Central Park Lake Trinidad

Trinidad Reservoir W of Trinidad

Uncompahgre River #2 Above Montrose

West Fork Lakes NE of Pagosa Springs

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 68 degrees. Trout fishing is fair to good, considering the hot conditions, and best in the mornings and evenings. 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 fair to good. However, most are under the legal size limit. Most walleyes are being caught using bottom bouncers with crawlers, jigs or spoons. Some reports have come in of perch being caught on jigs and crawlers. 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 — Trout still provide most of the catch, though the action has slowed. A few have run up to 3-4 pounds. Use a worm on the bottom or a Caliber Lure fished close to the shoreline.
Bear Creek — Fish right below Evergreen in the tailwater. People using small Pheasant Tails or small midges are having a good time.
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 have been hitting large shiners off a bobber. Keep your eyes open; they’re very close to shore. Crappie are hitting small jigs tipped with a minnow.
Chatfield Reservoir — Leeches have been the key to catching walleyes. The action is best early and late in the day. This is the year of the big fish. A lot of the walleyes you catch will be in the slot limit. The minimum size for walleyes at the reservoir is 18 inches. Only one can be longer than 21 inches.
Cherry Creek Reservoir — Trout have been hitting crankbaits around the dam early in the morning and late in the afternoon. Night crawlers off the bottom also might get one, or maybe a large walleye.
Clear Creek (above Hwy. 119) — Fishing for trout can be surprisingly good. Use a small RS-2 or chocolate WD40s, and have some BWO imitations in your pocket. Respect private property along the creek.
Clear Lake — The lake south of Georgetown off the Guanella Pass road offers fair to good fishing for catchable-sized rainbow trout. It also has some brook trout and a few browns. Fishing can be fairly good on a variety of baits and lures, but success largely depends on periodic stocking. The north shore often is the best location. No boats are permitted on the lake.
Evergreen Lake — Fish a Rooster Tail around the inlet for some good-sized trout and watch for the tiger muskies.
Georgetown Lake — Catching trout is little problem. Use orange Power Bait off the bottom or a night crawler broken in half. You might have your limit by noon.
Gross Reservoir — The inlet has always been good area for trout, but look to the shallow bays for the sunning muskies. Use large bucktails to get their attention.
Jim Baker Reservoir — Trout have been hitting Woolly Worms and minnows off a bobber. The catfish are taking sucker meat close to dark.
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 69 degrees. The water level is starting to drop. 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 using jigs, spinnerbaits, crawfish imitations, crankbaits, buzzbaits and surface plugs. Perch action is good on jigs. Most being caught are on the small side. Quincy Reservoir is restricted to fishing with artificial flies and lures. Please see the definition of artificial in the Colorado Division of Wildlife’s fishing regulations booklet. The limit for trout at Quincy is two. Bass must be at least 18 inches to keep. All boats must be hand-launched. Electric motors only. For more information, call 303-693-5463.
Rocky Mountain Lake — Trout have been hitting minnows of a red-and-white bobber. Power Bait is also a great bet.
Sloans Lake — Look to the shallows for bass. Place a big night crawler close to one and hold on. Trout fishing has slowed down with the hot weather.
Smith Reservoir — Warm-water fishing has been poor to fair. The 45-acre lake has crappie, bass, bluegills, catfish and perch. Its largemouth and smallmouth bass provide potentially good fishing well into the summer. Early and late in the day tend to be the best times. No boats are allowed on the lake.
South Platte River (Waterton Canyon) — The river has been unusually high and discolored. The section from Strontia Springs Dam downstream to 300 yards above the Marston diversion structure is restricted to artificial flies and lures and offers the best fishing. The most effective lures for spin-fishermen often are small Panther Martins, Mepps or Blue Fox spinners. Night crawlers usually are the most effective bait in the unrestricted lower stretch.
Standley Lake — The lake is still at capacity and the water temperature has been around 70 degrees. Trout fishing has slowed down, but a few continue to be caught from the shore on Power Bait and salmon eggs fished off the bottom. Boaters are having fair 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 slowed but remains fairly good on spinners and the typical baits. A few mackinaw still are taken, but the action has slowed from the early season. The bag and possession limit for lake trout and splake on Lower Big Creek Lake is three fish, of which only one can exceed 26 inches.
Big Thompson River — Flows remain constant at 128 cfs. Pale morning duns still are the best hatch. For PMDs, try size 16-18 Thorax, Parachute or Hatchmasters for dries; Pheasant Tails, Pickpockets or Hotwires for nymphs. With the hot weather, expect caddis hatches. Try size 16 elk-hairs and Silveys Visibles, and Z Wings, Glo Bubbles and Hotwires for nymphs. Hopper/dropper rigs are a good way to fish the Big T. A No. 10-12 hopper and a bead-head can make for some fun fishing. For spin-fishing, Mepps and Panther Martins will work well. In the non catch-and-release section, salmon eggs are an ideal bait. Inquire in Estes Park for more details.
Boulder Reservoir — Fishing for smallmouth bass remains fair 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. Trolling has been fair, but the activity generally is over by 9 a.m. 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. Timing is the key to fishing success. The action for white bass, walleyes and perch has been hot-or-cold, but persistent fishermen are doing OK. The best activity has been for white bass in the evenings, when they are chasing baitfish or a mild chop is on the water. Trolling for walleyes remains fair. 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 and the lake level has come up. Power Baits, spinners, Kastmasters and similar lures will work well. Remember, no live minnows may be used as bait above 7,000-foot elevation on the Eastern Slope of Colorado.
Cowdrey Lake — Cowdrey Lake is fishing well. Hatches of damsellies, Calibaetis and some large caddis have been coming off daily. The moss in the lake is growing fast, which makes for tough fishing from the shore. During the hatch, try stripping a damsel nymph in about 5 feet of water. 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 — The level is dropping, the water is murky and the temperature is in the low 80s. Boat docks are out of the water, but the ramp still is usable. Fishing for small bass, crappie and carp is fair. Wiper action is spotty. Trout fishing is marginal. Trollers have been hitting a few off the boat ramp and along the dam face on small, slowly trolled crankbaits. Salmon eggs off the bottom are also getting a few.
Dowdy Lake (Red Feather) — Hardware fishermen have been getting limits fishing close to shore. Orange Power Bait is also very productive. Boaters targeting the islands also are doing well.
East Delaney Lake — East Delaney is fishing very well. Good hatches of damselflies, Callibaetis and caddis are coming off daily. Damsel and Callibaetis nymphs are working the best throughout the hatch. In the evening, try throwing mosquito patterns to rising fish along the shore line. The moss is starting to become a problem. Try using a float tube or pontoon to fish the lake. 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, hoppers, ants and beetles for cruising fish. For spin fishing, try flashy lures and bait, especially salmon eggs at the inlet. Fishing around the lake also can be good with a worm or Power Bait.
Flatiron Reservoir — Fishing for trout is good. Fishing is best using salmon eggs, worms and orange Power Bait.
Hidden Lakes — The road to the lakes is open and U.S. Forest Service campgrounds are available.
Hohnholz Lakes — Lake No. 3 is the place to be. Use a black Woolly Bugger or a gold-colored Kastmaster. The fish are big and hungry.
Horsetooth Reservoir — The water level has dropped a little and temperatures are 74-78 degrees. Smallmouth bass have been active in 10-20 feet of water off points and steep banks. Finesse baits - small plastic worms, tube jugs, etc. - and slow presentations have worked best. Anglers have reported fair 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. Some nice-size crappie have also been caught during the night in Inlet Bay. Silver Rat-L-Traps and light-colored (white) Mister Twisters are still a good bet. All walleyes must be at least 18 inches long, but only one can exceed 21 inches.
Jackson Reservoir — Fishing is slow to fair for wipers and slow for all other species. Wipers are being caught from the dam and north shore using mussels, worms or crawdad tails. No reports have come in of fish being taken by boat. Water is being released; fishing should improve in the outlet. The water level is approximately one foot down from full and the lake is open to boating.
Joe Wright 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 flies and lures may be used (no bait fishing). The daily bag and possession limit is two trout. Grayling fishing at the inlet has been good the last several weeks. Small surface or sub-surface flies, as well as lures, can be effective.
Jumbo Reservoir — The reservoir’s water level has dropped a few feet from full over the last couple of weeks because of irrigation starting. All boat ramps are still in the water. The trout fishing has slowed but some rainbows of 14-17 inches are still being caught. Some channel catfish also have been caught. Shad have been stocked back into the reservoir, which will help the young walleyes gain size. A habitat stamp is required to enter Jumbo and Red Lion Annex.
Lake John — Lake John is fishing well. Great hatches of damselflies 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 damsel 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 in which the fish is feeding) If you’re a nymph fisherman, try fishing below an indicator with a three-fly rig. Go 8-10 feet below an indicator fishing a Callibaetis, to a damsel, 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 — Trout are taking small Pheasant Tails 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 fair for quality, if not for quantity, and wipers have been active at sunset and into the night. 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 road is open to the lake and campground. Fishing has been slow to moderate. No bait fishing is allowed, but spinning lures and artificial flies will work well.
Lost Lake (at Chambers) — Fishing pressure has been high on the weekends, with some success. The lake has been stocked, and Power Baits, salmon eggs and worms, as well as various lures, will work well. The lake has a litter problem, so please pack out what you pack in.
North Delaney Lake — North Lake fishing is good. The best reports are coming from night fishermen. Try fishing from 7 p.m. to midnight. Throw size 2-4 black and olive leeches. Try using a slow-sinking line or very long leader. The fish are fairly deep, at 8-10 feet. Damsel and Callibaetis are coming off thick. Look for cruising fish along the shore chasing damsels. Nymphing with two or three flies fished 6-10 feet below an indicator is most productive during the day. The lake is designated Gold Medal Water, and special regulations apply. 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 in the Valley are still experiencing unsettled conditions. The irrigation season is nearing an end. Every day more ditches are turned off, leaving the water in the fields to run back to the river. That is making the rivers high and muddy. These waters are expected to start fishing very well within the next two weeks. 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 Platte was at 300 cfs on Tuesday. The river is cool at 58 degrees. The moss is pretty bad, making fishing a little tough with anything but dry flies. An awesome Trico hatch is appearing every day at 10 a.m. Also coming off well are caddis, PMDs and Yellow Sallies. Stimulators, Tricos, PMDs, Hare’s Ears, Pheasant Tails and Prince Nymphs are working the best.
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 green mussels and shrimp working the best. Catfishing still good on the flats, with cut bait working the best. Some smallmouth bass in the 12 to 15-inch range have started appearing along the dam. Work lures along the rocks for best results.
Parvin Lake (Red Feather) — Using a gold Kastmaster on the south side should produce some nice browns. A large Prince Nymph will also do well.
Pinewood Reservoir — Pinewood was recently stocked with 1400 trout. Fisherman’s Cove remains the most reliable spot. Salmon eggs and rainbow Power Bait have been working best. Tiger Muskie fishing has been excellent.
Poudre River — The Poudre is in prime condition and fishing well. Tuesday’s flow was 313 cfs at the canyon mouth. Caddis, Yellow Sally stoneflies and pale-morning-dun, red quill and blue-wing-olive mayflies may be coming off on any given day, providing good dry fly fishing. Grasshoppers also are common. Hopper-dropper rigs, with a Pheasant Tail or small Copper John as the trailing fly have been especially effective.
Prewitt Reservoir — The reservoir water level is dropping due to irrigation. The boat dock is in, and the ramp is still in the water. 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 40 cfs and other streams are in great shape. 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 16 Yellow Sally is the trick. 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 — Seeley Lake: look shallow for bass, their around weed close to shore. A black or white rabbit hair jig will do the job.
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 in South Delaney lake has been good. Great damselfly, Callibaetis and caddis hatches are evident. The best reports are coming from anglers fishing during the hatch and looking for cruising fish along the shoreline. Try to spot these fish cruising, throw a damsel nymph in front of one and strip it to the shore. 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 126 cfs at Lyons. PMD, terrestrial, 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. Hoppers, size 10-12, 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 — Little Tasmanian Devils have been hitting some large trout. A fly-and-bobber has always worked well here. Tie on a Woolly Worm.
Wellington Reservoir #4 — Trout are taking salmon eggs off the bottom. A big worm will work, also, and Kastmasters fished close to shore are producing.
Northwest
Blue River (below Green Mountain Reservoir) — Flows below Green Mountain Dam on Tuesday morning were 400 cfs. 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 fishing between Dillon and Green Mountain continues to be good, after Dillon Reservoir stopped spilling last week. With the drop in water temperatures, fewer and fewer green drakes are being seen, so don’t expect to get many rises to drakes anymore. The good news is that with the afternoon rainstorms in the area, the blue wing olives have started to come off, with confirmed hatches all the way above the Spectator Bridge in the Silverthorne Factory Outlets. In Silverthorne, BWOs, PMDs and midge dries have been working well. As nymphs, UV emergers, RS-2s, Zebra midges, WD40s and Mysis have been the best patterns in town. Downstream, PMDs, BWOs and caddis are on the water. With the rainstorms, don’t be afraid to throw a San Juan Worm, either.
Colorado River (below Parshall) — The flow at Parshall, below the Williams Fork confluence, on Monday was 287 cfs. Near Kremmling, below the Blue River tributary, the volume was 928 cfs. Flows generally have been suitable, and quite a few anglers have been on the water. Summertime hatches include Trico mayflies and evening caddis. Grasshoppers and other terrestrials also have been on the water. Muddler Minnows have been effective in some of the faster water, and spin fishermen report results on small silver-bladed Mepps spinners.
Colorado River (Glenwood to Rifle) — The Colorado River has been flowing at 2,930 cfs in Glenwood Springs. Due to recent rains, the river is heavily discolored, making fishing tough if not impossible. When the river clears, look for the fishing to heat up in a big way.
Colorado River (near Granby) — Flows on Monday were 205 cfs below Windy Gap and 928 cfs near Kremmling. Fishing has been good. Caddis, mosquito and many other dry fly patterns have been working, as well as the normal wet flies such as Prince Nymphs, RS-2s and Copper Johns. 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 poor because of heavy rains during the weekend. The river from Redstone up to Marble should clear in the next few days. Look for predominantly nymphing opportunities, with sporadic caddis hatches. A few green drakes are being seen in the upper stretches, as well. Load your fly box with plenty of BH Princes, Copper Johns, BH Pheasant Tails, STDs, BLMs, Z-Wing Caddis, Wulffs, Stimulators and BDE Drakes.
Elk River — The Elk is flowing clear and fishing well. Notable summertime hatches include caddis and Trico and red quill mayflies. Look for grasshoppers and other terrestrials also 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 182 cfs, clear and ideal for fishing. The first wave of green drakes are along the lower half of the river up to Mile Marker 8, and the fishing couldn’t be any better. Solid hatches of PMDs and caddis are taking place along the entire river. 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 along the top two to four miles below the dam.
Granby Reservoir — Fishing has become more challenging with the hot weather, especially during midday, but catching still is possible. Stream inlets flowing into the lake remain 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 mackinaw is producing fish, including a 35-pounder last week and several between 10 and 30 pounds. Some kokanee are being caught, but are proving to be a match for most fishermen. Reports are coming in of large schools, which is promising. 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 slowing down. Trout are still being caught on night crawlers or Power Bait. Some kokanee are being caught 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 — Even though the water level at Harvey dropped during the past week, the fishing still is very good. Many perch reportedly have been caught in the northeast end of the lake. The catfish have been active by the dam. Some good-sized trout have been reported by the spillway.
Highline Lake — The warm-water fishing at Highline Lake has been outstanding, with a number of largemouth and smallmouth bass caught. Those include a 20 1/2-inch largemouth weighing more than 5 pounds, and a smallmouth of 2 1/2 to 3 pounds. Anglers are still catching their limits of crappie on jigs of all colors. Bass must be at least 15 inches long to be kept. The water temperature is above 70 degrees. Highline’s water level is at capacity and will be for the rest of the summer. Highline is open for boating, so fishing usually is best early in the morning. 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. Boat fishermen still are doing well trolling with copper-color spoons and red-and-yellow, black-and-yellow and all-gold spinners. Bank fishing has been only fair. Fishing worms in combination with salmon eggs has been the most effective approach for shore fishermen.
Mack Mesa Lake — The water temperature is 75 degrees. Fishing is very slow. Anglers have reported catching sunfish. 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 around 23 cfs. Fishing has been slow, best early in the morning.
Pearl Lake — Pearl Lake fishing is by artificial flies and lures only. Panther Martins, Rooster Tails and spoons are seeing some success, with all colors catching fish equally well across the lake. Fishing has been hit-or-miss in the early morning and late evening hours. People are still catching fish, but a little more work is needed to get them to bite.
Rifle Gap Reservoir — The water level has been dropping, creating lots of mud lines that can stain the water during windy times. The temperature is 72-74 degrees. Fishing for mostly small perch in the west end by Rainbow Point has been good for shore fishermen. Several reports have come in of walleyes being caught by the island and around the boat ramp.
Rio Blanco Lake — Hot weather and extensive weed growth have slowed the action. Few fishermen have been on the water recently. Some bass and panfish still can be taken, especially late in the day. Buzzbaits and small yellow or chartreuse jigs have been the best lures.
Roaring Fork River — The Roaring Fork river has been discolored after recent heavy rains from Aspen downstream to Glenwood Springs. Expect the river above Carbondale to be clear early in the week. Green drakes are hatching in good numbers from Snowmass up to Aspen, both midday and at dusk. The evening “lightning round” has been superb along the upper river with drakes, caddis and rusty spinners. Good hatches of PMDs, caddis and Yellow Sallies are taking place below Basalt. As we make the transition into late summer, look for smaller BWO imitations to again become of importance. Hot fly patterns include: Princes, red Copper Johns, Halfback PMDs, BLMs, STDs, Z-Wings, Humpies, Hairy Sallies, Rusty Spinners, Sunken Spinners, Stimis, BDE Drakes, drake cripples and pearl and elk Caddis.
Shadow Mountain Reservoir — Pumping through the canal is ongoing, making the canal and the area where it dumps into the reservoir prime fishing areas. Kokanee have been plentiful. 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 dropped and fishing conditions have remained good. Sow bugs, nymphs, especially Greggs Emergers and RS-2s, and caddis patterns have been doing well for fly fishermen, and lures and bait also are productive. Brown trout are plentiful in this area. More kokanee also are being caught in this location; mealworms 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 remains the most active at Rainbow Ridge and Meadow Point. Salmon eggs, Power Bait, Rooster Tails, spoons and Panther Martins continue to be proven producers through the hot summer months. Fish have shown more preference to 1/16-ounce lure sizes, but still aggressively bite up to 3/4-ounce lure weights. For fly fishing, try dark-color Woolly Buggers.
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 been fair. Successful fly patterns include Renegades, muskrats and olive Woolly Worms. Red and black ant patterns also tend to be effective as the summer goes on. 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 average 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. Afternoon storms have been prevalent. The lake is no longer spilling.
White River — The river is low and clear and has been fishing well. Mornings have been the best time, followed by a lull beginning around 10 a.m. Hopper and caddis patterns have been effective on the surface. Bead-head Prince Nymphs and Copper Johns have been the best patterns for nymphing.
Williams Fork Reservoir — The lake remains full. Fishing for kokanee salmon and a few rainbow trout has been fair, but with hot daytime temperatures has been slowing down. A few mackinaw have been taken from deep water. The reservoir also has some large northern pike that prowl shallow areas of the lake into early August. Large streamer flies, spinnerbaits and crankbaits are suggested.
Williams Fork River — Flow below Williams Fork Reservoir have been constant at 75 cfs. Look for mixed hatches of midges, caddis, and blue-wing-olive, pale-morning-dun and red quill mayflies.
Willow Creek Reservoir — Shoreline fishermen still are 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. Boating is encouraged, but it is a no-wake reservoir. It generally gets less fishing pressure than other area lakes. Worms, Power Bait and salmon eggs are commonly used, as well as spinners, spoons and crankbaits. Fly fishing is very productive. Inquire in Granby for updates.
Wolford Reservoir — The water level remains at full capacity. Fishing has slowed down due to warmer temperatures, therefore early morning and evening have been the most productive fishing times. Water temperatures of 72 degrees 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 dropped to very low levels and a voluntary restriction on all recreation is in place in the Steamboat Springs area. Yampa River State Park will have walk-wade access, but floating will be restricted until water levels come up. Fishermen should be very aware of stress on fish due to high temperatures and low oxygen levels. Contact Yampa River State Park for more information.
Yampa River (Stagecoach through Steamboat) — A voluntary closure to fishing is in effect for the river from the upper boundary of the Chuck Lewis State Wildlife Area through Steamboat Springs because of high water temperatures and low flows. The river is at about 20 percent of its normal flow, and temperatures are exceeding 70 degrees. The closure affects about eight miles of the river. Other streams and lakes in the region still offer plentiful fishing opportunities.
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 fair for catfish. Fishing for crappie has been spotty, with some periods of fairly good activity being reported.
Antero Reservoir — The reservoir reopened to fishing last week, and crowds have been large. Anglers have been catching mostly rainbow trout, with plenty in the 18- to 20-inch range on small spinning lures. Mornings generally are the best time. Bait and fly fishing also have taken their share of trout. A potential state-record cuttbow weighing 18 pounds, 8 ounces, was taken on opening day on a rainbow-colored Kastmaster. To maintain the quality of fishing, 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 was 1,040 cfs on Monday, down from the weekend. Fish generally still are concentrated in clearer water near the banks and in pocket water. Fish a No. 12 bead-head Prince Nymph, and use a San Juan Worm as the dropped fly. Black or olive Woolly Buggers fished in the deeper water will be effective. Habitat improvements have created deeper pools and structure for the fish to thrive in even when releases from Pueblo Dam are minimal. Standard fishing regulations and limits are in effect on this section of the river.
Arkansas River (Buena Vista to Salida) — Sunday morning flows were 1,020 cfs in Browns Canyon and 1,060 at Wellsville, up a couple hundred cfs and murky from a big rain event in Chalk Creek Canyon. With drier conditions moving in, flows should recede and visibility improve during the week. Fishing in the Browns Canyon area has been exceptionally good lately.
Arkansas River (Leadville to Buena Vista) — As of Sunday morning, flows were 203 cfs in Hayden Meadows and 377 at Granite, with very good visibility. Golden and Yellow Sally stoneflies continue to be active on this reach, as well as early afternoon pale morning duns and evening caddis.
Arkansas River (Salida to Canon City) — Bighorn Sheep Canyon took a beating over the weekend, with several different drainages flash-flooding and higher flow volumes coming downstream from Browns Canyon. Heading into a drier week, the visibility should improve, giving hungry fish the chance to feed hard again. Stoneflies, pale morning duns and caddis all are active in this section.
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.
Blue and Bear lakes — The popular small lakes southwest of La Veta offer fishing primarily for catchable-size rainbow trout. Fishing success largely depends on periodic stocking.
Bonny Reservoir — Fishing has slowed a bit because of the heat and the boat ramp becoming harder to use. A few catfish are being caught in the shallows on the north side. The boat-ramp depth is 2 feet, and the channel going out to the main lake is 14 inches deep. Smaller boats have been pushed though the channel to access the main lake.
Brush Hollow Reservoir — Fishing for trout has slowed way down with the heat of summer, but fishing for warm-water species that include largemouth bass, walleyes, channel catfish, crappie and bluegills remains fairly good. The water level still is good, but starting to drop. Wakeless boating is permitted. A habitat stamp is required to use the state wildlife area. A mercury advisory by the Colorado Department of Public Health is in effect for walleyes of a certain size.
Catamount Reservoirs, North & South — Fishing has slowed, but remains fair to good. Anglers still are taking trout on Woolly Buggers, Prince Nymphs, Copper Johns and assorted spinning lures, including Kastmasters, Little Cleos and Dardevles. On South Cat, where bait fishing is permitted, salmon eggs and yellow Power Bait have been effective. Fishermen may use only artificial flies and lures on North Catamount. Access to both is from the Pikes Peak Highway and requires paying a fee. 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.
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. Anglers have been taking some good-sized trout and smallmouths early in the morning, but the catch rate has not been high.
Clear Creek Reservoir — Fishing remains fair, though the shoreline is muddy. With the draw down for maintenance work on the dam under way, the water level has receded below the toe of the concrete boat ramp, making launching essentially impossible. 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. Various types of flies have been productive in the evenings. High lakes in the vicinity are open and fishing for mostly cutthroat trout has been fair, primarily on small lures and flies.
Crystal Creek Reservoir — Fishing for catchable-sized trout has slowed a bit, but 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.
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 fair. The best reports are coming from shoreline fishermen along the south side of the reservoir. Worms combined with marshmallows, various Power Baits and assorted spinners seem to be working the best. Trout that have been caught recently are ranging from 12- to 20-plus inches. Water temperatures are reaching into the 60s. Kokanee fishing has picked up for the boaters. Northern pike fishing is great. Numerous pike in the 40-plus-inch range have recently been caught. The bag and possession limit is 10 kokanee salmon and four trout, of which only two can be 16 inches or longer. No limit applies to northern pike. Boating is permitted daily from 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset.
Fountain Lake — Like other urban lakes in Pueblo, this one is stocked most months the year, but not through the heat of summer. Trout fishing typically is good in the spring, usually slows down during the summer months, but picks up in the fall. The lake also has some catfish that can grow quite large.
Hayden Meadows Reservoir — The lake south of Leadville offers fair to good fishing for catchable-sized trout. Various lures and worms have been most effective in recent days, with the best activity early and late in the day. Fly fishing usually is good late in the afternoon into the evening.
Horseshoe Reservoir — The water level is good and the temperature is about 79 degrees. Trout fishing has slowed 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.
Huerfano River — The main public access to the primarily brown trout fishery is on the Huerfano State Wildlife Area southwest of Gardner. Fishing can be quite good, but conditions are very brushy. The upper river, from the national forest boundary to the headwaters, has a flies-and-lures restriction and a two-fish limit.
Jefferson Lake — 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 been 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 — The water level is lower than earlier in the summer, but both boat ramps remain operative. Fishermen have been getting some wipers off the dam face and saugeyes off the west boat ramp. Low-light periods have been best. Some catfish also have been taken in the spillway.
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 amenities are nearby.
Martin Lake — The water level is good. Fishing for trout has slowed down, with a few still being caught. The lake has been stocked several times, and the kids’ pond also has been stocked with trout. The water temperature is about 79 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.
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 good for wipers and saugeyes. Boat fishermen have been successful casting or trolling jigs and crankbaits; 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.
OHaver Reservoir — Success varies widely among anglers, but salmon eggs, Power Bait and night crawlers off the bottom have been taking some trout. Flies have worked well during the evenings and on overcast days.
Palmer Lake — The water level has been very low the past few years. 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 — Daytime temperatures remain hot and fishing has been poor. Some wipers up to 5 pounds are being taken early in the morning, but the activity stops shortly after sunrise. Recent heavy rain in the area has discolored the west end of the reservoir. 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 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 mandatory and a habitat stamp 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 10:30 a.m. Pale morning duns have been coming off later, and many micro caddis still are around. Flows are slowly dropping and temperatures are increasing. Average flows from the past week were 159 cfs. Some good-sized trout still are being reported. A good number of browns in the 10- to 18-inch range have been caught and released. 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 on the stream, and catch-and-release rules apply. As usual, this area attracts large crowds.
South Platte River, Deckers area — Flows below Cheesman Dam have been gradually coming down. On Monday the volume was 397 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 — Flows are still very good and dry fly fishing is at its best. Tricos are very active, along with caddis hatching in the mornings and afternoons, and pale morning duns in the late morning and early afternoon. Standard dry fly patterns imitating the above, along with caddis pupae and larvae, drowned Tricos, Barr’s PMD emergers and Pheasant Tails are effective.
Spinney Mountain Reservoir — Spinney fishing is fair to good. Fishing at Spinney is by artificial flies and lures only, with a bag and possession limit of one trout at least 20 inches long. Midges, Callibaetis mayflies and damselflies have been evident on the water. The surface water temperature is in the mid-60s. 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, 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 is around 800 surface acres and dropping. The surface temperature is 70-75 degrees, with subsurface temperatures around 60-70 degrees. Fishing has been good, although the dropping lake level and warm temperatures might have made it a little spotty at times. Trout fishing is still very good from shore or boat. Catfish have been fair. Bass and perch are still good, with several bass over the minimum length being caught. Last week several legal-sized walleyes were caught from boats and a lot of short walleyes still are being caught from shore. Wipers and crappie have been slow. Anglers are reminded to check for special limits on bass and walleyes at Trinidad Lake. Boaters use caution as floating debris may be in the lake and other hazards are starting to appear.
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 — The lake is almost full. Fishing has been spotty, with some parts of the lake more productive than others, but in general it has been poor. The best times are early and late in the day. Mackinaw appear to have moved into deeper water. Large crankbaits, spoon-type lures and sucker-tipped Gitzits still might take a few. The bag and possession limit is two lake trout. The lake also has rainbow trout and an occasional large brown. The lake has been stocked with catchable-sized rainbow and Snake River cutthroat trout from the Leadville National Fish Hatchery, the first time in a number of years they have been available. Two boat ramps and U.S. Forest Service camping facilities are available.
Twin Lakes — The water level is high. Relatively few people have been on the water, and fishing for rainbow trout from the shore and boats has been poor to fair. Night crawlers have worked as well as anything. Most mackinaw have moved into deeper water. Deep-trolling with blue or silver Flatfish might take a few. The mackinaw population continues to rebound, with the average size approaching 20 inches and some approaching 40. 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. 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.
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 at a prime level for fishing dry flies. Try size 8-10 caddis, Chernobyl ants and hopper patterns when the water is clear. Afternoon monsoon rains have started, so the water can be cloudy or off-color at any time. On those days use Woolly Buggers, streamers or dark-colored nymphs.
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 fishing remains pretty steady, but they are deeper now and appear to be gradually moving toward the Gunnison River inlet. The best action has been in the Iola Basin. Trolling at 30-45 feet or 6-8 colors of lead-core line has been the most productive. Lake trout fishing is slow. Look for them from 100-150 feet. Trout fishing has been fair, with most fish taken on bait off the bottom, or trolling from 30 to 45 feet with cow bells and worms or Rapalas. Perch fishing is good in any of the shallow bays around the lake using small jigs or worms. The water level remains very good, though it is slowly dropping after peaking out at two feet below the spillway.
Conejos County (high country lakes) — The high lakes are open. Be prepared for thunderstorms; good rains with lightning are not uncommon. Red, Trail, Green, Blue, Glacier, Tobacco, Bear, and Lake Anne have been some of the more popular high lakes with anglers and have been fishing well. Fishing is expected to be good throughout the summer and into fall.
Conejos County (small streams) — Conejos County is home to many small streams that are open and fishing fair to good for a variety of trout, including brooks, browns, and cutthroats. A few small streams in Conejos County are native-cutthroat trout waters with special fishing regulations, so please consult your 2007 fishing regulations directory.
Conejos River — 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 poor over the weekend and the few fish caught were very small. Heavy water ski, Jet Ski and recreational boating traffic over the weekend might have been a factor in the slow fishing. Water temperatures are still in the 70s. The lake is still fairly full but dropping, going down 8-10 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 and low, ideal for dry flies and spinners. Hatches are continuing, so emerger patterns and dry flies are a good bet. Because the monsoon season has started, afternoon and evening rains will cause the water to become muddy. Try streamers when the water is running brown or red.
East River — The East was at a low and clear 205 cfs at Almont on Monday afternoon. Fishing with dry flies and nymphs has been good. Mixed hatches of caddis and Yellow Sally stoneflies have been coming off most of the day. Productive fly patterns include elk-hair caddis, royal and yellow Humpies and Stimulators for dries; Prince Nymphs and 20-Inchers for nymphing.
Echo Canyon Reservoir — Warm weather has warmed the lake substantially, so fishing is rated as only fair. Fishing is best in the morning and evening with worms, Power Bait, small spinners and dry flies for trout and bass. Weed growth along the bank is a perennial occurrence, so casting from the shore is getting tougher. Fishing will improve in late summer when the weather begins to cool again.
Gunnison River (below Crystal Dam) — Flows are 600 cfs. Clarity is quite good. Caddis and PMDs are the main hatches. Try yellow and melon-quill patterns in sizes 16-18. Use a Stimulator as a strike indicator in the hopper- dropper technique. Midges, especially a red midge, are doing well in the afternoon. Scuds in olive and orange, Copper Johns, Pheasant Tails and Prince Nymphs are the usual nymphing patterns.
Gunnison River (through the canyon) — The flow in the Gunnison Gorge is now 605 cfs. Hoppers and hopper-dropper rigs, are hot this week. RS-2 emergers, Yellow Sallies and Copper Johns also have been working well. Fishing has been great from the Smith Fork downstream to Pleasure Park. The North Fork is low enough to wade. A commercial shuttle/return-boat service is still available through the Pleasure Park.
Gunnison River (Upper from Almont to Blue Mesa) — The Gunnison on Monday afternoon was flowing at 747 cfs. The water is generally clear, barring rains, and fishing has been good. Caddis activity has been good in late afternoon into the evening. Dark-bodied elk-hair caddis patterns and yellow Humpies have been effective on the surface, and a variety of nymphs also have worked well. Pale-morning dun and rusty spinner mayflies also have been hatching late in the afternoon. The river bottom is becoming a little mossy, however, creating something of a nuisance for nymphing. Streamer flies, stonefly nymphs and silver-bladed spinners also can be productive.
Jackson Gulch Reservoir — Rainbow trout were stocked early in the season and fishing conditions have been good. The water level is receding and boat launching might require using the lower ramp. 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, fly fishing and small crankbaits and inline spinners have been producing. For consistent perch action, suspend a small jig tipped with a worm under a slip bobber at about 15 feet, or cast small flies along the shallow, 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 is running low and clear above Vallecito Reservoir. Use small dry flies and spinners. This section of river, however, gets substantial pressure. Access below the reservoir is limited by private property.
McPhee Reservoir — The level is starting to drop and the water is warming up. Trout fishing has slowed. Smallmouth bass anglers are reporting good success but the fish are small. For smallmouth bass, use plastic worms and lizards. Remember that a slot limit applies to bass. All smallmouth and largemouth bass 10-15 inches long must be returned to the lake immediately. The DOW recently completed an electro-fishing survey and found good populations of smallmouth bass, trout and yellow perch.
Miramonte Reservoir — The 405-acre lake south of Norwood is part of the Dan Noble State Wildlife Area and offers potentially good fishing for larger-than-average rainbow trout. The DOW stocks subcatchable rainbows, which grow to size in the lake. Crayfish are a primary source of forage for the trout, and crayfish-imitating flies and lures generally work well. While catch rates appear to be down somewhat in the past year or two, the average fish size has been larger.
Mountain Home Reservoir — Fishing for rainbow trout is reported as good using the typical baits and lures.
Navajo Reservoir — The lake level is at 6075.49 feet. The water temperature on the Colorado side is 71 degrees. The northern pike and largemouth and smallmouth bass have been picking up lakewide on chartreuse crankbaits and white spinners. 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. They reportedly are biting on white corn at 35 feet. The water is very clear. Fishing for crappie and catfish has been slow, but they still are biting
Piedra River — The level is ideal for dry fly fishing. Use caddis, Renegades and emerger patterns. Frequent afternoon rains at this time of year can cause the water to be cloudy.
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 the construction.
Ridgway Fishing Ponds — Huck Finn Day will be July 21, starting at 9:30 a.m. Come dressed as Huck Finn and win prizes. 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 — A 21-pounds brown trout was caught last week in 40 feet of water on a worm. 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.
Rio Grande High Country Streams — High-country streams are running high but clear. Fishing is reported as fair to good using bait, spinners and flies. Fly fishermen have had good success drifting stonefly and mayfly nymphs.
Rio Grande River — The river remains high but is clearing. Willowfly, caddisfly and green-drake mayfly hatches are reported from Del Norte to Creede. Fishing was reported as good to excellent using large dry stonefly patterns, green drake and small elk-hair caddis presented on the surface.
Road Canyon Reservoir — Fishing for rainbow, cutthroat and an occasional brook trout has slowed somewhat but remains pretty good. Trolling fire-tiger-colored Rapalas and rainbow Rat-L-Traps has been productive. Shore fishermen have done OK on night crawlers off the bottom. Spinning lures and night crawlers below a bobber have worked well late in the afternoon. Many of the fish have been 16-18 inches, with some a little larger. The trout have been exceptionally chunky. A habitat stamp is required of everyone in the state wildlife area.
San Juan high-country lakes, streams — Fishing is excellent in the high-country lakes and streams. On small streams, use dry flies and hopper patterns but be stealthy, as the fish are skittish at this time of year. Spinners are a good bet, as are worms and Power Bait in the lakes.
San Juan River — The water level is low and fish are wary. Use dry fly patterns, emergers, nymphs and hopper patterns. Try a dropper rig, with a dry fly and a nymph tied in below. Regular afternoon rains will cause the water to run muddy.
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 remains high and clear, but unusually warm weather has sent the lake trout deep. Most are at about 90 feet. Fishing with night crawlers off the bottom or trolling with downriggers might take few. Trolling for rainbow and brown trout remains fairly good. Cow bells with worms are the standby, but Dardevles, Kastmasters and Rapalas also have been effective in recent days. Trout also have been taking a variety of flies and Montera Marvels, especially late in the day. Fishing for northern pike has slowed a little during the past week or so.
Taylor River — Flows remain pretty constant, and on Monday were 484 cfs at Almont and 398 cfs below Taylor Dam. Above Almont, caddis patterns, Stimulators, Prince Nymphs, Hare’s Ears and Copper Johns have been working well. Some green-drake activity still is possible. Woolly Buggers and other streamers also remain a good bet. The tailwater directly below the dam offers good fishing for exceptionally large rainbows, but the area attracts large crowds. Mysis shrimp and midges are the go-to patterns. Think small - sizes 18-24.
Trujillo Meadows Reservoir — Trujillo Meadows Reservoir is open and accessible. Fishing has been fair for brown trout and rainbows. Fishing pressure has been moderate during the week and heavy on the weekends. Effective methods for trout at Trujillo Meadows have been worms and lures in brown- and rainbow- trout patterns.
Tucker Ponds — Fishing is reported as fair to good for stocked rainbow trout of 10-14 inches using bait and flies.
Uncompahgre River in Ridgway Park — The spring runoff has slowed down and 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 from the bank continues to be excellent. Use worms, spinners, Power Bait or dry flies. Northern pike fishing has been slow much of the summer. 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. Anglers are not catching smallmouth bass or kokanee. 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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