| Denver Metro Region |
Arvada Reservoir – The reservoir recently was stocked with catchable trout. Fish are being caught on Power Bait and eggs from the south shoreline. As always, only electric boat motors are permitted. Lake hours are 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., seven days a week.
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Aurora Reservoir – The water temperature is 53 degrees. Trout fishing has slowed some this week; it’s been slow for some and fair for others. Pink and rainbow Power Bait, fished shallow from the dam and marina cove has been working best. From boats, trout action is fair trolling slowly with perch- and rainbow-colored Rapalas and Tasmanian Devils and silver Flatfish. Walleye action is slow for some, fair for others from boats using jigs in 15-30 feet of water. Most fish being caught are not of legal size. Wipers have been seen cruising near the dam. Fishing for all other species is slow or no reports have been received. The limit for trout is two fish. Boating is restricted to electric motors. For additional information call 303-690-1286.
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Barr Lake – Rainbow trout fishing has been picking up using orange Power Bait or tossing gold Krocodiles. Fishing for catfish should soon pick up using crayfish tails or a large shiner off the bottom.
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Bear Creek – Fishing for trout still is good outside Morrison using small red Copper Johns and blue-wing-olive dry flies on overcast days. There are some deep holes up the river if your willing to walk; reports of 17-inch browns get one’s attention. Water conditions are still pretty good. Get there before the runoff.
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Bear Creek Reservoir – Fishing for stocker trout remains fair, with early mornings and evenings the best times to catch a few. Use salmon eggs, worms or Power Bait. The best fishing spots are the Bear Creek inlet and the point at Pelican Point. Some smallmouth bass and saugeyes have been caught on worms. The fishing pier and the boat-launch docks are out.
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Berkeley Lake – Fishing for catchable-sized rainbow trout has been fair to good. The lake also has largemouth bass, crappie and channel catfish, among other warm-water species.
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Centennial Park Lake – The lake recently was stocked with catchable-sized trout. It also has a variety of warm-water fish. Try the usual array of baits and lures for trout. Good warm-water fishing is still a week or two away.
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Chatfield Ponds – Crappie have been taking off. Try using a shiner or other minnow under a bobber. Perch are mostly sticking on the bottom. Try a large crawler with a slip sinker. If you don’t catch them, move to another location on the pond. The front pond was fishing best last week. Remember, a State Parks pass is required.
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Chatfield Reservoir – Boaters have been catching walleyes. It seems you need to go through numerous smaller fish to get an 18-incher, but when you find them, fishing is fast and furious. The best luck has been on Lindy Rigs with a leech or large shiner. Trolling a bait that rattles increases your chances by 30 percent. Smallmouth bass have been active all over. Bank fishermen are in for a treat when this mean fish hits their shiner. For more information, call 303-421-4025.
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Cherry Creek Reservoir – Fishing for bigger walleyes has been good using Rapalas or live shiners. People in boats are trolling Lindy Rigs with a bottom bouncer and having full days. For more information, call 303-698-2550 and ask for Mike.
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Clear Creek (above Hwy. 119) – This stretch has a lot of fish willing to be hooked, but hurry before the runoff. Use small Black Beauties, size 18-22; Disco Midges, size 16-20; and small, black Pheasant Tails, size 18-20. For dry-fly action, use blue-wing-olives or olive Elk-hair Caddis on rainy, overcast days. Find the deep holes, find the big fish.
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Clear Lake – No current reports about the lake off Guanella Pass are available. The lake is stocked with catchable-sized rainbow trout and also has brook trout and a few browns. Early season fishing can be good.
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Evergreen Lake – Trout fishing has been good. The lake recently was stocked with catchable rainbow trout. Power Bait in the deep water close to the dam or just to the east of the parking lot is a safe bet. Muskie fishermen shoud use a rainbow-colored Rapala and work it as if it was wounded or sick.
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Georgetown Lake – Fishing for small brook trout has been good using Power Bait or baby crawlers. Fly guys should try Pistol Petes or black Woolly Buggers.
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Gross Reservoir – Trout fishing is good with crawlers and Power Bait. The inlet has been a hot spot recently. Watch your step and keep your eyes open for a huge tiger muskie. If you dare, float a whole dead sucker off the bottom in shallow water with a steel leader, and plan on replacing your rod after the tiger rips through it. For more information, call 303-421-4025.
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Jim Baker Reservoir – Catfish fishing is still excellent. The big cats are cruising the shoreline looking for crayfish. People using sucker meat and live crayfish are getting into them, not to mention some bass. Trout fishing has been super, also. Use a Pistol Pete behind a bobber, or a rainbow-colored Rooster Tail to take home a limit. For more information, call 303-421-4025.
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Ketring Park Lake – The lake has a variety of mostly small warm-water fish. Fishing remains a little slow but has been improving with warmer weather.
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Main Lake – The lake usually offers fairly good early season fishing for crappie. The action has been a little slow but should pick up with continued warm weather. The lake also has bass up to 18 inches, and other warm-water species. Bass fishing usually picks up in mid to late May, when the fish move into shallow water to spawn. No boats are allowed on the lake.
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Quincy Reservoir – The water level is dropping and the water temperature is 58. Trout fishing is fair to good using flies. Bead-head Prince nymphs, leech patterns, olive Woolly Buggers and Zebra Midges have worked well. Spin-fishermen have enjoyed some action on trout using Panther Martins and perch-colored Kastmasters. Bass fishing has been slow to fair this week. Some action was reported on crankbaits and crawdad-pattern jigs. Bass are starting to move into shallower water. Quincy Reservoir is restricted to fishing with artificial flies and lures. Please see the new defintion 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. For more information call 303-693-5463.
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Rocky Mountain Lake – Take a kid fishing here. Use worms, Power Bait or minnows off a bobber.
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Sloans Lake – Trout fishing is fair, and some crappie are to be had, also. Marshmallows and Power Bait are your best bet.
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Smith Reservoir – Warm-water fishing has been on the slow side but is improving with rising water temperatures. Crappie usually are the first to become active. Largemouth and smallmouth bass become active a little later, and continue to provide potentially good fishing well into the summer.
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South Platte River (Waterton Canyon) – Flows have been up-and-down, but most recently have been low. The water is clear, and fly fishermen have noted blue-wing-olive and midge activity. The section from Strontia Springs Dam downstrem 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 are small Panther Martins, Mepps or Blue Fox spinners. Night crawlers are most effective in the unrestricted lower stretch.
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Standley Lake – The water level still is dropping and is about 10 feet below capacity. Runoff should begin to fill the lake in approximately two weeks. Watch for shallow areas. The water temperature is in the mid-50s. Trout are still the main catch, with a few bass being caught as the water warms up. Fishing from shore has been fair off the bottom using worms and Power Bait. Boat fishing has been good bouncing bait off the bottom or trolling with a variety of lures. The park is open sunrise to sunset for walk-in access. Drive-in access is from 7 a.m. to sunset, with a $6 access fee for vehicles. Boats with motors up to 20 horsepower can access the lake on a daily basis for a $13 access fee. Call the park visitor center at (303) 425-1097 for complete information about permits and regulations.
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Washington Park Lakes – Crappie running up to 10 inches can provide some interesting fishing this time of year. Try a small Fle Fly jig or live minnow below a bobber about 3 feet down. Bass and catfish will become more active as the water warms. Try tube jigs, rubber worms or shiner minnows for the bass.
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Webster Lake – The lake has been stocked with catchable-sized trout, and fishing for them has been fair to good. The lake also has bass, perch and catfish, which should become more active with warming water temperatures.
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| Northeast Region |
Barker Reservoir – The ice is off, and this is a great time of year for trout fishing. Use worms, Power Bait or Kastmasters along the north shore and inlet. Fly fishermen typically have their best luck at the inlet. Tiger muskies can be found in deeper waters – try along the north shore.
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Bellaire Lake – The lake has been stocked with catchable-sized trout last week. Fishing for them has been fair to good on a variety of baits and lures.
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Big Creek Lakes – The lakes remain frozen and inaccessible. Ice-out usually occurs in mid to late May.
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Big Thompson Ponds – Fishing for largemouth bass and channel catfish has been fair. The ponds also have bluegills, and crappie. Fly fishing for bluegills can be lots of fun for kids.
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Big Thompson River – The river below Lake Estes remains fishably clear but is rising and picking up some color downstream. Blue-wing-olive mayflies, stoneflies and midges are common on the river above and below the dam. Fly fishing for rainbow trout has been good in the tailwater and above the lake. Try Comparadun or Parachute Adams dry flies if trout are rising; No. 18-22 bead-head nymphs if not. If stoneflies are evident, try a Stimulator pattern in the pocket water. Spin-casters have been taking some fish on small Mepps and Panther Martin spinners. Flies-and-lures and catch-and-release provisions are in effect from Lake Estes to the Waltonia bridge. Sudden rainstorms and lightning are possible this time of year.
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Boedecker Reservoir – Panfish are doing well, using minnows and leeches. Bass are taking large shiners off a bobber. Black or brown jigs work well, also.
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Boulder Reservoir – Though the water level is low, fishing is fair. Smallmouth bass have been taking minnows and various plastic jigs. Try fishing off both dams or at the beach near the southeast boat ramp. The northeast side of the reservoir provides good fishing for belly boaters. Worms are still catching walleyes. Boaters are doing well by the dam. Note the new regulation on this reservoir: Walleyes must be at least 15 inches in length to keep, and only one walleye over 21 inches can be kept. The bag limit for walleyes still is five.
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Boyd Lake – Trout fishing has slowed down, but a variety of other fish have become more active in recent days. Walleye fishing generally is slow, but fishing for medium-sized crappie has been fairly good, with some larger ones mixed in. Jigs and fathead minnows have taken most of the crappie. The inlet region has been best. Fly fishermen report taking crappie on 1-to 2-inch bucktails in natural bait colors, and some small, largemouth bass on 4-inch streamers worked off the bottom in 5-10 feet of water. Yellow perch reportedly also are active, but holding in somewhat deeper water.
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Carter Reservoir – Trout fishing has been moderate to fair. Several 20-plus-inch trout have been caught by fishermen.
Walleye fishing is still good on the east side of the lake. Fish shallow to moderate depths along gravel ledges, points and submerged structure. Bass fishing will begin picking up as the lake temperatures rise.
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Chambers Lake – At last report, the lake still was mostly covered by unsafe ice. Fishing for trout and mackinaw usually is good right after ice-out, which should occur in a week or two.
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Cowdrey Lake – Cowdrey is fishing fairly well with Kastmasters in gold and silver, and floating Rapalas in rainbow and silver. Fly fishermen are doing fair with No. 16 red Chironomids and No. 16 orange scuds. Fishing has been best from boats on the west side of lake in 8-10 feet of water.
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Douglas Reservoir – Wipers are doing great on shiners fished along the rocks. Rapalas will produce some nice ones, also. Trout are taking minnows and Power Bait. Fish right to the north of the boat ramp. This area holds a lot of nice fish.
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Dowdy Lake (Red Feather) – Trout is the word for it, and large ones, also. Use a fly and bobber, or troll Tasmanian Devils close to the island.
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East Delaney Lake – Damselflies are starting to move in the weed beds and fish are keying in on the nymphs as well as the midges that are still emerging. Until the water warms up, fishing will be sporadic. Temperatures are starting to climb, so look for chironomids at midday and crayfish in the evening to be the ticket. This time of year, tube-jig style lures(swim baits) are still picking up fish. Think of trout as cold-water bass, and many of the same rigs will work. Fishermen may use only artificial flies or lures. The limit on trout is two. All brown trout 14-20 inches long, and rainbows and cutthroats 18-22 inches long must immediately be returned to the water alive.
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Estes Lake – Fishing for recently stocked and holdover rainbow trout has been very good. Fly fishermen have been taking some rainbows around the inlet on egg patterns and small streamer flies. Power Bait, salmon eggs and worms also have been effective. Spin-casters might try Z-Rays, Thomas Buoyants and Kastmasters.
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Flatiron Reservoir – Trout fishing still slow, but the reservoir should soon be stocked. Fishing has been best during late afternoon and early morning, but fish can still be caught throughout the day. Try using Power Bait, Fireballs or worms.
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Hidden Lakes – At last report the lakes were frozen and inaccessible.
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Hohnholz Lakes – No. 3 is doing well for browns. Use Woolly Buggers trolled from your float tube. Kastmasters are also a good bet. Get there early in the year before the moss overgrows the lake.
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Horsetooth Reservoir – The reservoir is filling, bringing a rush of water down the inlet channel. The inlet channel into the reservoir, located near Inlet Bay, is closed to fishing March 15-May 31. Fishing in Inlet Bay has slowed down slightly but is still producing some large trout, along with some sublegal-sized walleyes. Smallmouth activity is slowly picking up in the Eltuck Bay area. Bright-colored grubs seem to be the best bet. Note the new walleye size regulations this year at Horsetooth. The bag limit is five walleyes over 18 inches, with only one fish over 21 inches in length.
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Jackson Reservoir – Trout fishing is good to excellent from the west shore (especially from the Lakeside Campground shoreline), inlet and dam using Power Bait, salmon eggs and night crawlers. The inlet has also been producing wipers on Rat-L-Traps and night crawlers. Fishing is also good for walleyes and wipers in the outlet and off the dam using night crawlers and Rat-L-Traps. The water temperature is in the low 60’s. If you are fishing from boats, try fishing the north end and west side of the reservoir at a depth of 3 to 4 feet for trout, walleyes and wipers. Night crawlers seem to be working best for all species.
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Joe Wright Reservoir – The lake remains ice-covered. Grayling and trout usually go on a feeding binge shortly after ice-out. Fishermen may use only artificial flies and lures. The limit for trout is two fish at least 16 inches long.
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Jumbo Reservoir – Conditions at Jumbo have improved slightly but the water temperature is still relatively cool and the wind in the afternoons still persists. Fishing success is limited, though some trout are being caught. Fishing activity has increased along with boating. Water is being drawn out of the reservoir but levels are still good. A habitat stamp is required to enter this State Wildlife Area.
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Lake John – Lake John fished best last weekend for fishermen who were trolling. Kastmasters and Tasmanian Devils were the best. Fly fishermen are doing fair on Woolly Buggers with a scud trailer. Kick a float tube on the south end near the chokecherries for the best luck.
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Laramie River at Hohnholz SWA – Blue-wing-olives, size 16, are taking most of the trout. However, a lot also are caught on Gold-ribbed Hares Ears.
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Lon Hagler Reservoir – The lake has been stocked with trout, and fishing for 8- to 10-inch rainbows still is fairly good. Crappie have become more active as the water warms, but the bite still has not been consistent.
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Lonetree Reservoir – By most reports, fishing for warm-water species remains slow, but a few bass, walleyes and decent-sized crappie have been taken. The water level is low, leaving relatively little cover and making the inlet area the likeliest location for finding crappie. Expect fishing to improve with warmer weather. Early season fishing should be fairly good, but with an increase in this year’s forage base, well-fed fish may be difficult to catch later.
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Long Draw Reservoir – At last report, the lake still had ice and access was difficult to impossible. Ice-out usually occurs in mid to late May, and the road is cleared later.
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Lost Lake (at Chambers) – At last report, the lake remained ice-covered. Expect good fishing right after ice-out.
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North Delaney Lake – North Delaney Butte, the best of North Park lakes when looking for big fish, has been fair to good. Fly fishermen have been doing great with large streamer patterns fished on a slick line in 8-10 feet of water. Patterns should be big and orange, black or olive. (No. 4 olive, black, or orange Rubber Buggers; No. 4 crayfish; No. 2 mouse patterns; and No. 6 black CH Zuddlers.) Lure fishermen are doing well along the dam with fire-tiger Kastmasters and Rapalas. The limit is two trout, except that all browns 14-20 inches in length and rainbows and cutthroats 18-22 inches must immediately be returned to the water alive. Fishing is prohibited in the inlet above the standing water line.
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North Michigan Lake – The ice is off the lake. A handful of anglers have had success fishing with black Woolly Buggers and Power Bait.
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North Park Alpine Lakes – The lakes remain covered with ice and snow, and will remain that way for some time.
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North Park Streams – The North Park meadow streams are fishing great. Water levels are dropping quickly with the opening of irrigation ditches. This will concentrate more fish in the deeper pools. Fly fishermen are doing well fishing with dropper rigs, usually dropping a No. 14 Pheasant Tail or No. 14 Hare’s Ear. Large yellow, orange, or black Zonker streamer pattern, fished under brush and overhanging branches also can be effective. Lure fishermen need only cast a No. 3 Mepps spinner – gold or a red-and-white combination – and hold on. Michigan Creek below the reservoir and in Walden is rising but still fishable. The Illinois through the Arapahoe Wildlife Refuge is open to fishing until June 1.
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North Platte River – The river is open and has dropped to 640 cfs. Irrigation of the valley hay fields has begun. This is a significant change from last week. Clarity should improve in the next few days as the water continues to drop. The peak of runoff is expected in the beginning of June. Bright flies and lures cast to the banks will be the most effective in off-color water. We are starting to see a few stoneflies as well. Call the North Park Anglers at (970) 723-4215 for conditions updates.
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North Sterling Reservoir – The water temperature is around 58 degrees and fishing seems to be improving. Fishing is good for catfish at the inlet and south end of the dam on shrimp and crayfish, mostly after dark and early morning. Fishing has been good for walleyes, which are moving out a little. Try Lindy Rigs with a leech or minnow in 15 feet of water in the Darby and Cunningham arms. It’s been slow for wipers off the dam on jigs and bait. The outlet has been turned on, but the inlet still is off. The lake is about 5 vertical feet below capacity, covering about 2,600 surface acres. Boat ramps all are usable, and both courtesy docks are in. Call the park office at 970-522-3657 for current conditions.
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Parvin Lake (Red Feather) – Smaller browns are being caught on hardware such as small Dardevles and Thomas Buoyants. The fly guys are doing well with black or brown Woolly Buggers or damsel nymphs.
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Pinewood Reservoir – Fishing for trout has been fair. The best place to catch your limit is around the inlet and the Fisherman’s Cove area using rainbow and pink Power Bait.
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Poudre River – The river has risen significantly during the past week, but the water remains fairly clear. Caddisflies have appeared on the river and terrestrial insects are evident along the banks. Blue-wing-olive mayflies still are the primary bug on the water, and trout also have been taking stonefly imitations drifted just above the bottom. The North Fork and other tributaries also are clear, but a warming trend could trigger the main runoff, possibly in a week or two. Call (970) 498-8968 for updates.
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Prewitt Reservoir – The reservoir is full. The courtesy boat dock is in. Fishing for all species remains slow. A habitat stamp is required to enter this State Wildlife Area.
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Ranger Lakes – The area has not opened for the seaon. Upper Ranger Lake was drained for dam rapairs last year. It should refill this summer.
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Seeley Lake – Fishing is fair using worms and Power Bait off the west side.
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Seymour Reservoir – No current reports are available, but the lake has been stocked with catchable-sized trout. A variety of baits and lures should produce a decent catch.
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Simpson Ponds – The water is still a little cold for truly good fishing, but fishermen have been taking a few small largemouth bass and occasional crappie. The back pond has been the most productive. Try a small Rapala, or a plastic worm retrieved slowly along the bottom. The ponds remain fairly clear, with little moss or algae along the bottom.
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South Delaney Lake – Warmer weather is getting fish active. Every year just after ice-off, the cutts and ‘bows will spawn in the ditch and worry about nothing but that. Now that they are almost done, it will be time for them to put on a few pounds. Look for South Delaney to get hot! Chironomids will be the ticket, but No. 14-16 scuds in olive and tan also will take fish. Fishing beetles along the west side of the lake near the overhanging willows also can be productive. This lake will turn on; it’s just days away. Only artificial flies and lures may be used. The limit is two trout, but all browns 14-20 inches long and rainbows and cutthroats 18-22 inches long must be released. Fishing is prohibited in the inlet above the standing water line.
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St. Vrain River – The river has come up noticeably but remains fishably clear. Wading the meadow sections could be difficult; the pocket water of the upper river should be easier and more productive.Fly fishermen have report some decent activity on midge patterns, blue-wing-olive mayflies and small brown stoneflies. A few caddis also are on the water.
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Teal and Tiago Lakes – No current report available.
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Union Reservoir (Calkins) – Anglers are still catching 15- to 20-inch wipers, with a few larger ones also being taken. Evenings and days with some chop on the water are currently the best times. Fishing for trout is good along the west shore using typical baits and from boats trolling small rapalas or roostertails. Nice channel catfish are being caught using stinkbait or cut shad. Most are between 3 and 5 lbs with several up to 14lbs. The reservoir is currently 2 feet down. The reservoir in open for camping, and anglers may fish all night. Boating is restricted to wakeless speeds. The minimum size for crappie is 10 inches, and 15 inches for wipers.
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Watson Lake – Black Woolly Buggers and Pheasant Tails are doing best for trout. Smallmouth bass are hitting 6-inch plastic worms fished slowly across the bottom.
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Wellington Reservoir #4 – Trout, tout, tout … Fishermen are doing very well on Power Bait, worms, and shiners. Bass fishing is fair and getting better. Ue minnows off a bobber.
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| Northwest Region |
Blue River (below Green Mountain Reservoir) – The flow below Green Mountain Reservoir has been holding steady at 113 cfs. The river below the dam is fishable. Fishing is fair to good on San Juan worms and small emerger patterns for some large fish. Spin-casters are throwing No. 7 Rapalas. The tailwater is subject to periodic security clsosures. Three other public access points are available on BLM land downriver to the confluence with the Colorado River, but they are narrow and anglers are warned to stay off adjoining private property. For current conditions call the Fishin’ Hole in Kremmling at (970) 724-9407.
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Blue River (Dillon to Green Mtn. Res.) – Little has changed during the past week. Midge patterns have been working best. Black Beauties, Flash-wing midges and Brooks Sprout midges have been effective, used as dropper flies below Mysis shrimp and egg pattern attractors. From Blue River Campground to Green Mountain Reservoir, San Juan Worms, Copper Johns, small stoneflies, Tungsten Hare’s Ears and Cadillac Pheasant Tails have produced well. The river may be off-color in the afternoon.
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Colorado River (below Parshall) – The fishing above Kremmling still is fairly good, with flows of approximately 600 cfs above the confluence with the Blue River and Muddy Creek, but the river can become off-color because of afternoon showers and runoff. At Parshall, use small emerger and egg paterns, but be mindful of spawning rainbows and try not to stress the fish. Plenty of good-sized browns also are being caught. At Kremmling, on the public accesses, spin-fishermen are doing well throwing Rapalas and Blue Fox spinners. Downstream at Pump House, watch for hatches of blue-wing-olives. Flows down here are around 1,300 cfs. For current conditions, call the Fishin’ Hole in Kremmling at (970) 724-9407.
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Colorado River (Glenwood to Rifle) – The Colorado River below Glenwood Springs is heavily discolored, unfishable and flowing at 5,100 cfs. If in the area, focus your efforts on the Frying Pan and Roaring Fork Rivers, both of which have been fishing very well. For daily river reports and fishing conditions contact the Taylor Creek Flyshop in Basalt at 970-927-4374.
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Colorado River (near Granby) – Fishing below Parshall remains fairly good. Streams will have color and will have increased flows during the runoff season. Egg patterns, San Juan worms, small nymphs, black midges, Woolly Buggers and Copper Johns have been working well. The stream flow below Windy Gap last weekend was down to 422 cfs. However, near Kremmling, it was running at 1,350 cfs. 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. For current conditions call Budget Tackle in Granby at (970) 887-9344.
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Crystal River – The Crystal River is heavily discolored, unfishable and flowing at more than 700 cfs in Carbondale. However, the Frying Pan and the upper Roaring Fork are fishing exceptionally well. Expect the Crystal to remain discolored until sometime in June, when runoff subsides. For daily river reports please contact the Taylor Creek Flyshop in Basalt at 970-927-4374.
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Elk River – The river is high,roily and difficult to fish
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Fryingpan River – The Frying Pan River is fishing exceptionally well, with current river flows being 267 cfs. Good hatches of blue-wing-olives and midges, and Mysis shrimp will be found on the upper river below the dam. Caddis are beginning to appear in good numbers on the lower stretches of river, as well. Hot fly patterns include BTS Baetis, Pheasant Tails, Biot Midges, RS-2s, Jujubees, BWO Sparkleduns, Frying Pan Emergers, E/C Caddis, CDC Caddis, and Bill’s Midge Emergers.
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Granby Reservoir – The Sunset and Stillwater boat ramps are open. Shore fishing is staying good on all types of bait and lures. Dress for muddy conditions. Many different lures and baits have been working for rainbow, brown trout and lake trout. Pink, red, and white with silver flash work for kokanee. For brown trout, gold, silver, and brown-trout patterns are good lure colors. However, all fish are hungry and hitting almost anything. Rainbows are hitting suckers, shiners and fathead minnows. Also, they are feeding very shallow. For current conditions call Budget Tackle in Granby at (970)887-9344.
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Grand Lake – The West Portal has been fishing well, as usual. The channel between Shadow Mountain Reservoir and Grand Lake also has been fishing well. Please call Budget Tackle if you have any first-hand fishing reports. For current conditions call Budget Tackle in Granby at (970) 887-9344.
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Green Mountain Reservoir – The ake is down around 30 feet but coming up. Rainbow trout are being caught from shore on worms and salmon eggs. Bigger lake trout are being caught trolling, using Flatfish and Kastmasters.
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Harvey Gap Reservoir – Harvey Gap is full and the water temperature is 60 degrees. Northern pike are the chief attraction. Try for pike and trout off the dam with a gold or silver spoon. One of the more active areas is the inlet. Trolling is always a good plan. As the temperature increases, so will the activity for bass, bluegill, sunfish and catfish. The minimum-size limit for bass is 15 inches. The bag and possession limit for catfish is two fish. A single-lane concrete boat ramp is located at the east entrance to the park, but boat motors (in use) are restricted to 20 horsepower or less. The 2006 fishing regulations, fishing information and State Park annual passes are available at the Rifle Gap visitor center.
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Highline Lake – The water temperature is about 55 degrees and the lake is full. Fishing still is a bit slow. Trout have been doing well, and are being caught on worms. Both boat ramps are open. The east ramp is still a bit shallow, so use caution.
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Lake Avery – The hot ice-out action has slowed somewhat, but fishing still is fairly good. The standard assortment of baits and lures has been effective. For current conditions, call Wyatt’s Sporting Goods in Meeker at (970) 878-4428.
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Mack Mesa Lake – The water temperature is about 59 degrees and water levels are high. Trout fishing has been good. Power Bait, worms and salmon eggs seem to be a popular choice. Mack Mesa is restricted to hand-propelled craft or boats with small, electric trolling motors.
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Muddy Creek – With less water coming down the spillway on Wolford Reservoir, the flow is down to 270 cfs, making for much better fishing. Stripping a Woolly Bugger or throwing a Kastmaster or Panther Martin spinner may catch a nice rainbow or brown. Bait fishermen are using night crawlers or salmon eggs. For current conditions call the Fishin’ Hole in Kremmling at (970) 724-9407.
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Pearl Lake – The lake is ice-free, but the road into Pearl Lake is closed. A 1/2 mile hike into the lake is required. Woolly Buggers, small crayfish imitations, Glo Bugs and jigging with spinners might produce some action. An artificial-flies- and-lures restriction is in effect.
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Rifle Gap Reservoir – The lake is full. The water temperature is 59 degrees. East Rifle Creek is clear below the dam but still somewhat cloudy from snowmelt. Try deep-running lures or streamer flies for pike. Trout have been hitting Panther Martin spinners and streamer flies. Perch fishing is picking up using a No. 8 hook tipped with a small piece of worm. A few visitors caught walleyes last weekend. The boat ramp and docks are in the water. The catch-all in this lake seems to be a perch-imitation type of lure. For walleyes, use a deep-running lure or jig. The regulation on walleyes at Rifle Gap now reads, “Bag, possession limit and minimum size for walleyes is 3, 18 inches long.” The 2006 fishing regulations, fishing information and State Parks Annual passes are available at the visitor center.
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Rio Blanco Lake – Fishermen have been catching some crappie and bluegills on red, white and chartreuse crappie jigs. A few northern pike have been taken on crankbaits and red-and-white spoons. For current conditions, call Wyatt’s Sporting Goods in Meeker at (970) 878-4428.
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Roaring Fork River – The Roaring Fork is clear and fishing well from Aspen to Carbondale. River flows are currently 128 cfs in Aspen and 715 cfs in Basalt. Below Carbondale the river is discolored and unfishable. Good daily hatches of Caddis and BWO’s will be seen during afternoons. Hot fly patterns include: Princes, SJ Worms, Copper Johns, BLM’s, Swiss Straw Emergers, Thread Emerger, RS-2’s, Flashtail Eggs, Pearl and Elk Caddis, E/C Caddis, BWO Quill Parachutes, BWO Sparkleduns, Zebra Midges, and P-Tails.
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Shadow Mountain Reservoir – Heavy pumping through the canal all winter made fishing very good in the canal and out into the lake. Kokanee and rainbows are plentiful and browns are also being caught. The boat ramps are open. Fishing has been good below Shadow Mountain Dam, all the way to Granby Reservoir. Sow bugs and Mysis shrimp patterns, as well as midges, RS-2s, and Copper Johns are working. Rapalas, Kastmasters and Panther Martins are popular lures. A little walk can be productive. For current conditions call Budget Tackle in Granby at(970) 887-9344.
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Stagecoach Reservoir – Spring in the Yampa Valley definitely is here. Great trout activity is being reported around the lake, with the most luck coming from the Yampa River inlet area. Most shoreline anglers are having success with blue or rainbow Power Bait and gold or rainbow Kastmasters. Fish also hitting well along the Keystone Day Use Area and Haybro. The pike are getting a little sluggish since begnning their spawn, but a few are still being landed from the boats using spoons, Kastmasters and minnows. The activity at the tailwaters has dropped off a little, but nice fish are still hitting red midges. The water level is full. For more conditions information, please visit www.parks.state.co.us.
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Steamboat Lake – The lake is ice-free. All roads are open. Inlet streams are fishing well. Olive Woolly Buggers, large emerging nymphs and slow jigging with spinning gear might work well. Night crawlers are producing nice fish. Camping is available in the Dutch Hill campground.
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Trappers Lake – The lake remains mostly ice-covered and access still is problematic. The ice typically comes off around Memorial Day. The lake is an outstanding fishery for naturally reproducing cutthroat trout and an important source of cutthroat spawn for the DOW. 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 to benefit the cutthroat fishery. For conditions updates call Wyatt’s Sporting Goods in Meeker at (970) 878-4428.
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Vega Reservoir – Fishing for trout has been excellent, with most running 12-19 inches. The Leon, Park and Plateau Creek inlets are open and fishing is very good. Power Bait, salmon eggs, worms and bright lures have been effective. Small dry flies also are taking some fish near shore, especially at dawn and dusk. Shoreline access remains muddy in places. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended, but be cautious to avoid an expensive towing bill. The Early Settlers and Island boat ramps are open. Boaters are doing well trolling. Make reservation now for Memorial Day by calling (800) 678-2267 or logging on to www.parks.state.co.us.
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White River – The river is high, discolored and essentially unfishable. For conditions updates, call Wyatt’s Sporting Goods in Meeker at (970) 878-4428.
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Williams Fork Reservoir – With the lake level rising fast, fishing is heating up. Big pike are in the shallows and lake trout are being caught in deeper water. Fish the fingers for trout and the flats for pike. Try off the points for big lakers; up in the inlet for good trout. For current conditions, call the Fishin’ Hole in Kremmling at (970) 724-9407.
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Williams Fork River – The flow is 68 cfs and the fishing is excellent. A lot of rainbow trout are running up the Williams Fork from the Colorado, and plenty of browns are feeding on the eggs. With the warm afternoon sun, watch for PMDs and midges. Drift egg patterns or small nymphs to entice the browns. Be mindful of the spawners and try not to stress them too much. For current conditions, call the Fishin’ Hole in Kremmling at (970) 724-9407.
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Willow Creek Reservoir – Bank fishing has been good. Power Bait and worms are the baits of choice. Rapalas, Kastmasters, and Panther Martins have been doing well. The campground reportedly will be opened on May 17 with hookups hopefully available pn Memorial Day weekend. For current conditions call Budget Tackle in Granby at (970) 887-9344.
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Wolford Reservoir – With the water level as high as it has ever been, the lake continues to fish very well. Fish the coves and shallow water on east side of the lake. Throw a Kastmaster or troll a small spoon to entice these hungry fish. For current conditions call the Fishin’ Hole in Kremmling at (970) 724-9407.
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Yampa River (Hayden through Craig) – The runoff is under way. Expect high, discolored conditions at least until mid-June. When clear, the river offers potentially good fishing for trout and northern pike, but much of it flows through private property with limited public access.
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Yampa River (Stagecoach through Steamboat) – Fishing in the tailwater below Stagecoach Reservoir remains fairly good with midge and occasional blue-wing-olive mayfly activity reported. But as essentially the only fishably clear stream in the vicinity, on some days it has been crowded. The runoff has begun around Steamboat Springs. The river likely will be unfishable until mid-June at the earliest. Call the Steamboat Fly Fishing Company at(970) 879-6552 for current conditions.
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Adobe Creek Res. (Blue Lake) – Catfish and crappie have been biting sporadically. Very few anglers have fished Blue Lake this spring. The water level is much improved from last summer, but summer irrigation draw-downs already have begun. A large number of fingerling crappie were stocked late last summer. With fresh water and large areas of newly flooded weeds and brush, crappie, white bass and other warm-water species are expected to recover quickly, but 2006 will be largely a rebuilding year. The water will continue to go down with irrigation demands this summer, but should remain well above the record lows of the past few years. ATVs and dirt bikes are not permitted on the state wildlife area.
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Anticline Lake – The popular lake below Pueblo Dam is heavily stocked with trout in the spring and offers good fishing into early summer.
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Arkansas River #3 (Through Pueblo) – Flows have been variable, seemingly with higher volumes on weekends cut back during the week. Early in the week, the flow was about 490 cfs, the water was clear and the fishing excellent. A three-fly rig with a No. 16-18 indicator such as a Parachute Adams, trailed by an 18-20 bead-head Phesant Tail nymph and any small emerger has been the ticket. Hatches have been sporadic; almost all the action has been sub-surface. Frequent stocking of this stretch usually makes for excellent fishing. 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.
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Arkansas River (Buena Vista to Salida) – The river is running about 500 cfs through this stretch and the caddis hatch is in full swing. By midweek there should be strong hatches from Browns Canyon up through Buena Vista. Go to www.arkanglers.com for more information.
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Arkansas River (Leadville to Buena Vista) – Flows on this section have been 220 cfs at Hayden Meadows, 480 at Granite and 540 in Buena Vista. Clarity was good as of last weekend, but the runoff may begin by next weekend. Caddis will push into this reach toward late week – blue-wing-olives continue to hatch. For more information, visit www.arkanglers.com.
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Arkansas River (Salida to Canon City) – Flows in this section have been 530-580 cfs with good visibility. That may start to change by the weekend if warm weather helps to initiate some runoff. The caddis have moved beyond this area – blue-wing-olives and craneflies are hatching, with stonefly nymphs becoming active in advance of their migration toward shore. Go to www.arkanglers.com for updated reports.
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Beckwith Reservoir – The lake southwest of Pueblo has been stocked with catchable-sized trout. Try salmon eggs, Power Bait or night crawlers, or small shiny spoons and spinners if spin-casting.
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Bonny Reservoir – In the past week, fishing has picked up. Several nice-sized (16-17 inches) white bass have been taken off the face of the dam with jigs and minnows. Catfish are still biting well off the south and north shores on cut shad and other typical baits. A few walleyes are being taken off the face of the dam with crankbaits. The surface water temperature is around 63 degrees. The two-lane marina ramp is open and the courtesy dock has been installed. The lake is still 18.5 feet below the full mark. Consult the Colorado State Parks Web site for current conditions and closures.
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Brush Hollow Reservoir – Fishing has been good, but the water level is dropping quickly and the boat ramp is out of the water. Fishing for trout has been very good on the usual baits and lures. Warm-water fishermen have been taking some 10- to 12-inch crappie, as well as bass and some walleyes. Chartreuse-colored jigs and streamer flies have been effective along the west end of the reservoir. A DOW creel census is being conducted at the lake and anglers are asked to participate in the study. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment found mercury levels exceeding human-health-based standards in certain sized walleyes. An official advisory is to be posted this spring or summer.
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Catamount Reservoirs, North & South – The lakes are part of the North Slope Recreation Area on Pikes Peak and have opened for the season. Both have been stocked with catchable-sized trout, and both also have mackinaw and a few brook trout, in addition to holdover rainbows and cutthroats from last year’s stocking. Both have good water levels to begin the fishing season. Fishing for rainbows is excellent at both North and South Catamount. Fishing for mackinaw is slow with a few smaller fish being landed. North Catamount has a flies-and-lures restriction. An access fee for the Pikes Peak Highway is required to fish these lakes. A DOW creel census is being conducted at these lakes and anglers are asked to participate in the study.
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Clear Creek Reservoir – The lake is free of ice. Fishing for trout from shore and boats has been fair to good on the usual array of baits and lures. Fly fishermen report good action from boats on black and purple Woolly Buggers. The lake typically produces very good fishing for rainbow, cutthroat and a few large brown trout. It also has kokanee salmon, mostly less than 13 inches with a few over 15, and fishing for them should be good in 2006. The water-supply reservoir was full last year and also will be filled to capacity in 2006.
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Cottonwood Lake – Early season fishing for holdover trout has been fair. Try salmon eggs, night crawlers or Power Bait.
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Crystal Creek Reservoir – The reservoir along the Pikes Peak Highway has opened for the season. The water level is improving from the past few years. The lake has been stocked, and fishing for catchable-sized trout is excellent. Access requires paying a fee at the Pikes Peak Highway tollgate. A DOW creel census is being conducted at the lake and anglers are asked to participate in the study.
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Daigre Reservoir – Few fishermen have been on the water and reports are scarce. The lake recently was stocked with catchable-sized trout. Fishing is retricted to fishing with artificial flies and lures.
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DeWeese Reservoir – The lake recently was stocked with catchable-sized trout, but little fishing activity has been noted. The reservoir will be full in 2006. Some holdover rainbow trout are in the 16- to 20-inch range. The lake has fewer brown trout but some are in the 16- to 18-inch range. Smallmouth bass are abundant and should provide some fast action. Most are 6-12 inches in length, but some 16-inchers occasionally are caught. ATVs no longer are permitted in the state wildlife area.
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Elevenmile Reservoir – The reservoir is open to boating ½ hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset. The bag and possession limit is 10 kokanee salmon and four trout, of which only two can be 16 inches or greater. No limit applies to northern pike. Trout action is fair. Trout are beginning to leave spawning beds for deeper water. Hot-color Power Baits, various jigs and spoons, and night crawlers are working well. Pike fishing is poor using Rapalas and sucker meat; however, pike action is picking up as the water temperature approaches 45 degrees. Kokanee salmon action is fair from boat using Pop baits, Kastmasters, and various trolling spoons. Gold and pink are the best colors.
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Fountain Lake – Like other urban lakes in Pueblo, this one is stocked 12 months a year. Trout fishing usually is good in the spring and fall, and slows down during the summer months. The lake also has some catfish.
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Hayden Meadows Reservoir – The lake is free of ice and recently was stocked with catchable-sized trout. Fishing has been fair to good on a variety of baits, lures and flies.
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Horseshoe Reservoir – The water level is good and the temperature is in the mid-50s. Shore and boat anglers have been doing well fishing for trout with Fireballs, salmon eggs, worms, and small minnows. Look for activity for other species to increase as the water warms up. The boat dock is in place. For current conditions, call (719) 738-2376.
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Jefferson Lake – At 10,687 feet, the lake is covered with deteriorating ice and the access road is closed because of snowdrifts, but walking in is possible. The lake typically offers good fishing for stocked trout, as well as occasional holdover rainbows and brook trout. Large mackinaw can be taken from shore around ice-out, and smaller (12- to 18-inch)lakers are taken from shore through the summer.
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John Martin Reservoir – The crappie bite has begun. They have been caught off the dam face as well as in the coves of the north shore on chartruese Twister Tails. Rainbow trout are also being caught on the main reservoir from boats and shore, mostly while fishing for crappie. Wipers, walleyes an suageyes, including a 7-pounder taken on a charttreuse jig, also have been taken from the spillway on jigs and minnows. Large catfish are biting in the spillway on liver. Lake Hasty has been stocked with trout and they are biting on Power Bait. Many young wipers and saugeyes went through the dam last year, but white bass, crappie and catfish remain abundant. ATVs and dirt bikes are not permitted on the state wildlife area.
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Lake Henry – The water level was excellent last year and should remain good in 2006. Few fishermen have been on the water, but fishing should be good this spring, especially for catfish. The lake also has crappie, wipers and saugeyes, and fishing for them should improve as the lake rebounds from recent low-water years.
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Lake Meredith – This large, shallow lake was restocked in 2005 after being completely dry the previous year. Those fish should be nearing catching size, but the water remains low and the status of the fishery is unclear. Fishing may be difficult because of low-water conditions. Small boats can launch on the gravel ramp. Little fishing activity has been noted so far. Water temperatures are warming quickly and currently are in the upper-50s.
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Manitou Lake – Fishing success at the lake north of Woodland Park largely depends on periodic stocking. The lake is on U.S. Forest Service property and has picnic tables and other amenities. An entry fee is required. U.S. Forest Service campgrounds are nearby.
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Martin Lake – The boat ramp is closed through May 25 because of construction. The water level is high. The temperature is in the mid- to upper 50s. Trout fishing has been good on Fireballs, regular salmon eggs and worms. A fire ban is in place at the park, with only propane grills allowed. Call the park office at 719-738-2376 for current conditions.
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Montgomery Reservoir – Fishing is prohibited through May 31.
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Monument Reservoir – Early season fishing for holdover trout has been fair to good on the standard array of baits and lures. The lake recently was stocked with catchable-sized trout. Fishing in 2006 should be good. Brown trout populations are very high and anglers can expect to see good numbers in their catch. Most will be 8-12 inches in length, but an occasional fish to 20 inches could be caught.
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Nee Gronda Reservoir – Fishing has improved for wipers, crappie and saugeyes. Wipers are biting on worms and trolled crankbaits, crappie are hitting minnows and jigs, and saugeyes are hitting jigs tipped with worms. Nee Gronda did not receive fresh water through its canal system last year, but still covers about 1,900 surface acres. The state boat ramp on the east shore is usable for launching shallow-draft boats. A private ramp at the Cottonwood Marina on the north shore may be available for a fee.
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Nee Noshe Reservoir – A few wipers are being caught on worms and shrimp bait. Some crappie action has been reported, but fishing is still described as slow. Success should improve as spring progresses. No fresh water was added to Nee Noshe in 2005 and the lake receded to about 600 surface acres. Boat access became nearly impossible during the summer, so the DOW built a new gravel ramp on the south side of the lake. Extensions have been added as the lake has receded. Small- to medium-sized boats should be able to launch. Muddy conditions may exist, especially immediately after a rain storm. Although the lake is very low, it has good numbers of wipers, saugeyes, white bass and catfish.
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Nichols Reservoir – Fishing for catchable-sized rainbow trout has been very good. Anglers must park by the main gate to Rampart Reservoir and walk down to Nichols, but the fishing has been worth the trek. The water level is improved from last year, and fishing should remain good through the summer.
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North Lake – Early season fishing has been fair to good. Fly fishermen have been taking some trout on brown Pistol Petes and black Woolly Buggers. North Lake is retricted to fishing with artificial flies and lures. The lake will provide some excellent fishing for catchable rainbow trout and splake this year. Increased stocking will bolster the fishing for rainbows. The splake population continues to improve and plays a key role in fisheries management on the lake.
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Palmer Lake – The water level is very low. No stocking will be done until conditions improve.
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Prospect Lake – The lake in Colorado Springs has been refilled and stocked with catchable-sized trout. Fishing for them has been fair to good. Fishing for warm-water species is a year or two away.
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Pueblo Reservoir – Fish are stirring to life, primarily in the west end of the reservoir, but warm-water fishing still is sporadic. Some smallmouth bass have been taken in the evenings, and wipers have been hitting, on-and-off, along the shallow points in the morning and evening. A few small walleyes are being taken, but the overall action remains slow. Look for warm-water fishng to improve dramatically in about a week with continued warm weather. In the meantime, recently stocked trout are providing most of the action. The water level is slightly better than in 2005. Fishing should be very good in 2006, but the lake can get crowded. Anglers can expect better than average fishing for walleyes, wipers, bass, catfish and trout this season.
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Quail Lake – Fishing for catchable-sized rainbows has been fair to good. Fishing for warm-water species should pick up in the next few weeks.
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Queens Reservoirs – Upper Queens essentially dried up last summer and no fish remain. The lake will be restocked if it gets more water, not likely in the immediate future. Lower Queens is totally dry. ATVs and dirt bikes are not allowed in the Queens State Wildlife Area.
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Rampart Reservoir – The water level is much improved for 2006. Fishing for 10- to 13-inch rainbow tout is good, but slow for browns and mackinaw. Boat-ramp access is to be available May 13-Oct. 3 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. with the following restrictions: No rental vans; Class A, B or C motorhomes, or trailers over 22 feet will be allowed across the dam; and no stopping or fishing will be permitted within 500 feet of the dam. With little pressure the past few years, fishing for most species should be good to excellent. Early season is an especially good time to fish, with rainbows cruising along the shore and mackinaw in the shallows. Fishing for rainbows should remain good through the summer. The main recreation area will open in late May. In the meantime, fishermen can park near the gate and walk to the lake.
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Runyon Lake – This is one of several Pueblo-area lakes stocked 12 months a year. Fishing should be good, especially in the spring and early summer. The lake also has some catfish.
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San Isabel Lake – The lake southwest of Pueblo will receive heavy stocking of catchable-sized rainbow trout and fishing for them should be very good. The lake also has a fairly good population of brown trout that should be turning up in anglers’ catches and some splake that are in the 12- to 14-inch range.
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Skaguay Reservoir – Fishing for holdover trout has been fair. The upper end of the reservoir and points of land extending into the water have been productive areas to fish. The lake also has a fairly good population of northern pike, which fishermen are encouraged to catch and keep.
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South Platte River (btwn Spinney and Elevenmile) – The river is open to catch-and-release fishing with artificial flies and lures. Fishermen report seeing significantly fewer fish in the river, indicating the trout spawning run is tapering off. Effective fies have been orange and yellow egg patterns, No. 18-20 Scuds, San Juan Worms, No. 20-22 Miracle Nymphs, No. 20-22 Black Beauties, and No. 18-22 Copper Johns.
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South Platte River, Deckers area – Flows have been low, most recently around 55 cfs, and trout are in the riffles. Fly fishermen have reported an exceptionally high number of tan, No. 16-18 caddisflies, both adults and larvae around Deckers. Baetis mayflies and midges also have been coming off the water. RS-2s and No. 16-18 dry flies have been effective when the hatches are on. In Cheesman Canyon, fishing has been fairly good, though success varies widely among fishermen. Sporadic midge emergences have been noted, but Most of the activity has been subsurface. The best success has been fishing with bead-head Black Beauties, bead-head Flashback Pheasant Tails, RS-2s, San Juan worms, scuds, Red Midge Larvae and Cheesman Emergers.
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South Platte River, Elevenmile Canyon – Flows from Elevenmile Dam have been gradually rising the past week, and most recently were about 100 cfs. Fishing for wild rainbow trout and some browns remains very good. Emerging midges and blue-wing-olive mayflies provide some dry-fly action, but most of the activity remains sub-surface on the typical small nymphs. Barr’s Emergers, BWO emergers, WD 40s, RS-2s bead-head Flashback Pheasant Tails and Johnny Flashes are likely patterns. Call the Peak Fly Shop at (719) 260-1415 for updates or log on to www.thepeakflyshop.com.
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Spinney Mountain Reservoir – Spinney is open ½ hour before sunrise to 1 hour after sunset, with no boating or fishing ½ hour after sunset. Only the north boat ramp is in operation. The water level is 4.2 vertical feet from capacity, offering the best level in recent years. Only artificial flies and lures are permitted, with a bag and possession limit of one trout 20 inches or greater. Although many fish are small, trout action is good to excellent using No, 14-18 Scuds, Hare’s Ears, No. 14-18 Callibaetis nymphs, brown moose-tail Hair Jigs, and various egg patterns. Trout action is best in deeper water, using spoons.
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Tarryall Reservoir – The lake is full and the boat ramps are usable, though the access road to the west-side ramp is a little rough for boat trailers. Fishing has been fairly slow for most anglers, but the trout being taken have been of fairly good size. Visitors must have a habitat stamp to use the state wildlife area.
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Trinidad Reservoir – Trinidad Lake has surface temperatures around 55 to 60 degrees. The gates were opened last week, so the level is dropping. The water is very clear. Trout fishing has remained good. Largemouth and smallmouth bass are picking up, both from shore and boats. Most are undersized, though. Walleyes also are picking up from boats. A few perch reportedly have been caught, and a few more catfish are being seen. No crappie or wipers have been turning up yet. Trout have been hitting Power Bait, worms and some lures. Both walleyes and bass are being taken on lures and with live bait. Catfish have been taken on chicken liver and shrimp. Refer to the DOW fishing regulations for special limits at Trinidad Lake. Use caution when boating as the lake drops unmarked obstacles may appear.
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Turks Pond – The level is down a little from last year, but should come up some with the pumping of well water. The 55-acre lake has good populations of crappie, bluegills, wipers, saugeyes and catfish, and is stocked with catchable-sized trout in the spring. Anglers are catching trout with worms. Catfish are also being caught with worms and other traditional catfish baits.
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Turquoise Lake – The lake is free of ice, but some snowdrifts may remain along the shoreline. Campgrounds and other U.S. Forest Service amenities will be open on Memorial Day. The reservoir has an abundant population of lake trout. Most are less than 20 inches long, but offer an opportunity to catch an often hard-to-catch species. The reservoir has been stocked with fingerling trout since 1997. Most have grown large enough to be of interest to fishermen. The water level should be normal in 2006 and fishing should be good.
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Twin Lakes – The lakes are free of ice and the boat ramps are accessible. Several mackinaw recently were taken by trolling white and yellow Flatfish on downriggers. The lake-trout fishery, once known for trophy fish but diminished in the 1990s, appears to be on its way back. Lake trout approaching 40 inches have become more common in recent years. Early season is an especially good time to fish for the mackinaw. The area around the hydro plant and the channel from the upper lake to the lower are among the better spots. Casting large Rapalas or tube jigs tipped with sucker meat seems to work best. The lakes also have other trout, and fishing can be good through the summer and fall. Water levels should be normal in 2006.
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Twin Lakes (Mt. Elbert) Forebay – The reservoir fluctuates significantly because of hydropower pumpback, but offers some of the best fishing for large lake trout in the area. It also has a good population of quickly growing rainbow trout that produce good fishing through the season on a variety of baits, lures and flies. Fishing for lake trout can be quite good from the south shore in the spring. Try a rainbow Rapala or a tube jig tipped with sucker meat. Carry-on boats are permitted on the forebay, but with the water fluctuations, extreme caution is urged.
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Two Buttes Reservoir – This reservoir has essentially dried up. It will not be stocked until conditions improve.
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Wahatoya Reservoir – The lake recently was stocked with catchable-sized trout, but little fishing activity has been noted.
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Animas River – The runoff is nearing its annual peak. The river is running high and dirty. The river should be clear again by early June.
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Beaver Creek Reservoir – The lake is open and has been stocked with rainbow trout. Fishing is reported as good for 12-to 18-inch rainbow and brown trout using Power Bait, spinners and streamer flies.
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Big Meadows Reservoir – The lake is open. No current report on angler success. Fishing for rainbow and brook trout should be good using Power Bait, worms and spinners.
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Blue Mesa Reservoir – Salmon fishing is beginning to pick up around the dam and in the Cebolla basin trolling brightly colored spinners and spoons from 10-25 feet. Brown and rainbow trout fishing remains good near the shore using marabou jigs or Rapalas. Lake trout fishing remains fair trolling large Flatfish in the Cebolla and Sapinero basins.
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Conejos County (high country lakes) – The lakes remain ice-covered and generally inaccessible. Look for ice-out and access in May.
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Conejos County (small streams) – Virtually all remain iced-up and inaccesible because of snow. Most become accessible in May.
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Conejos River – The Conejos River is open and accessible from Mogote to Horca. Prerunnoff fishing has been fair to good for brown trout on a variety of nymphs. Fishing pressure is very light this time of year. The Conejos River is one of the best-kept fishing secrets in Colorado. The river boasts a flourishing brown trout population from Mogote to Platoro Reservoir. The best fishing areas are the Fly Water, Pinnacles and the flats below Platoro Reservoir. Expect excellent fishing for brown trout at the Fly Water, where brown trout biomass is 81 pounds/acre with 49 fish/acre greater than 14 inches. Brown trout biomass at the flats below Platoro Reservoir is 70 pounds/acre and 22 fish/acre greater than 14 inches.
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Dolores River (lower) – With little water flowing out of McPhee Reservoir, the water level is low and fishing is poor.
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Dolores River (upper) – The water is running high and murky with spring runoff. Look for it to clear by early June.
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East River – Flows last week were as low as 650 cfs and as high as 1,160 cfs. Visibility was only several inches into the water. East River fishing will be tough this week unless we get another cold spell. Fish are holding on to the banks with their teeth (so to say). Woolly Buggers in brown, black and olive, stripped off the bank are your best bet. Or hone your skills or teach a friend how to fish on the Roaring Judy Hatchery ponds next to the river. Call Almont Anglers at (970)641-7404 or stop by for the latest report because conditions and the weather change daily.
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Echo Canyon Reservoir – Fishing for trout is good on Power Bait and worms. The lake was recently stocked with 10-inch catchable rainbows. Bass fishing should pick up as the water warms. For bass, use Power Bait for fishing from shore; Rapalas for trolling. Remember to register your boat for the year and check all safety gear.
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Gunnison River (below Crystal Dam) – The flow at the East Portal is 699 cfs, well below its early season mean of 2,500 cfs. Clarity is off-color, and is being affected upstream by the jump in the Cimarron River up to 450 cfs. Fishing still is good if you know the river. Egg patterns, scuds, BWOs, RS-2s, Adams, Parachute Adams, Pheasant Tails, Flashback Pheasant Tails and an assortment of different colored midges have been the go-to patterns. During the spawning season, tread lightly on the redds. For current conditions call the Cimarron Creek Flyshop at 970-249-0408.
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Gunnison River (through the canyon) – Fishing has greatly improved in the Smith Fork section. Anglers have done well on streamer flies, and San Juan worms. Gold-ribbed Hare’s Ears, size 14; red Copper Johns, size 14; and Cutter Caddis, size 14- 16 were hot. Caddis are coming off in droves. Some dry-fly activity and emerging caddis also were reported. No motorized craft are allowed above the North Fork tributary. Other restrictions include: Gold Medal Water, catch-and-release, flies-and-lures only. No rainbow trout may be kept. The Gunnison River Pleasure Park is offering ferry service to help anglers access the upper river. Call 970-872-2525 for current information.
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Gunnison River (Upper from Almont to Blue Mesa) – Flows last week were between 1,100 and 1,740 cfs, and are expected to keep rising. The best bet in these conditions is a streamer rig in black, brown, olive or white. Work the banks and slower eddies, preferably from a boat because wading can be tricky with the poor visibility. Spin-fishermen should use heavier rigs and work the bottom. Call the Almont Anglers at (970) 641-7404 or stop by for the latest report because conditions and the weather change daily.
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Jackson Gulch Reservoir – The inlet is running and the lake level is rising quickly. It’s currently at about 65 percent of capacity. Fishing in the inlet channel is good to excellent for rainbow trout. It gets murky at times. When that happens, move out of the channel to the mudline. Try in-line spinners and typical baits (Power Bait, eggs, night crawlers) for the trout, and small jigs tipped with a piece of worm for yellow perch. The perch will be found in the coves and along the dam. The lake is open for boating at wakeless speeds and the park is open year-round with restrooms, yurts, and campsites available for overnighters. Call 970-533-7065 or check the link below for current conditions.
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La Jara Creek – No report.
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La Jara Reservoir – The reservoir remains ice-covered. The remaining ice is considered unsafe; please use caution. La Jara Reservoir’s water level is expected to be fair this year, with fluctuations due to drought conditions. The trout fishery continues to grow at La Jara Reservoir. The 2004 gill-net survey found several 12- to 15-inch brook trout. The reservoir is stocked with Rio Grande cutthroat trout, brook trout and splake. Expect fair to good fishing in 2006, depending upon the water level.
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Lemon Reservoir – Fishing is fair for rainbows. The lake is still feeling the effects of ash runoff after the 2002 Missionary Ridge fire.
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Los Pinos River – The river above Vallecito Reservoir is now accessible, although insect hatches are not yet significant and runoff is high. Access to the river below the reservoir is very restricted because of private property.
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McPhee Reservoir – Action for trout is picking up as the fish look to the surface for food. Bass fishing is still slow, but will improve as the water continues to warm up. Fishermen are reminded of the 15-inch minimum size limt on bass at McPhee. Any smaller fish must be returned to the water alive. Fishing for kokanee salmon is best late June through August.
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Mountain Home Reservoir – The lake is open. The south boat ramp is accessible, but the north ramp is out of the water. Fishing has been very good for rainbow trout to 20 inches on Power Bait and salmon eggs.
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Navajo Reservoir – The lake is nearly full, with the water temperature at 56 degrees. On the Colorado side of the reservoir, crappie have been biting pretty much everywhere on minnows and chartreuse jigs. The marina store is open 9 to 5 daily with boating and fishing supplies. The store usually has minnows available, although they ran out the past couple of weekends. Pike, bass and catfish are also beginning to bite.
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Piedra River – The runoff is nearing its annual peak. The river is running high and dirty. The river should be clear again by early June.
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Platoro Reservoir – The reservoir remains ice-covered and inaccessible except by snowmobile. The ice usually melts in May, and the access road is cleared of snow around Memorial Day. The water level is low this year and expected to fluctuate throughout the summer. Platoro Reservoir is stocked with 17,000 10-inch rainbow trout, 35,000 fingerling rainbow trout, 7,000, 4-inch splake and 20,000, 2-inch kokanee salmon. The lake has a fair resident brown trout population with some fish in the 10- to 12-pound range. Expect fair to good fishing for rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee salmon and splake, especially in June and July.
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Ridgway Fishing Ponds – Worms, Woolly Buggers and bead-head nymphs all catch fish in these ponds. The Pa-Co-Chu-Puk area of Ridgway State Park is excellent for children because it has the only waters below the dam not restricted to artificial flies and lures or catch-and-release fishing. A limit of trout may be kept there.
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Ridgway Reservoir – Shore casters are catching fish around the boat ramp and in Dallas Creek using orange Power Bait and small, orange lures. Boaters continue to catch rainbow and brown trout using orange Power Bait, night crawlers, Kastmasters and Mepps spinners, though the action has slowed somewhat. Dallas Creek is muddy. The snow runoff has muddied the Uncompahgre River above the reservoir. The reservoir is starting to drop, but the main spring run off should start soon. The boat ramp is open for the season. The visitor center is open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for park passes, licenses, boat registrations and information.
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Rio Grande High Country Streams – High-country streams remain iced-up and generally inaccessible. They should be open by late May or early June.
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Rio Grande River – Flows are increasing and the water clarity is variable, depending upon weather and snowmelt. Fishing for brown trout can be good using stonefly nymphs when the water is clear, or streamers such as Wooly Buggers when it is off-color.
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Road Canyon Reservoir – The lake is completely free of ice. Fishing has been fair to good for 10- to 16-inch rainbow trout using bait, spinners and streamer flies.
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San Juan high-country lakes, streams – The lakes are iced-in and trails are snow-covered. High country lakes usually do not open for fishing until mid-June at the earliest.
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San Juan River – The runoff is nearing its annual peak. The river is running high and dirty. The river should be clear again by early June.
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Sanchez Reservoir – The reservoir is free of ice and the water level is low. Fishing for walleyes, northern pike and yellow perch has been slow, but it should improve as the water warms up a little.
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Taylor Reservoir – The lake is ice-free, and early season fishing for lake trout, rainbows and browns has been good. A 28-pound lake trout recently was taken on a Fire Triger Rapala, and a 23-pounder was taken on a frozen whole sucker. Rainbows and browns averaging 18 inches are being caught by fishermen primarily trying for the mackinaw. The level is good, but the water is slightly murky. Fishing pressure has been light. The marina is open and supplied. Cottonwood Pass is closed but likely will be open by Memorial Day. Campgrounds are to open soon.
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Taylor River – The Taylor has been fishing very well the past week. Flows out of the dam were increased from 125 to 156 cfs last Sunday. The higher flow should make fishing a little easier. Rainbows are spawning; be careful where you wade. Flows at Almont are 416 cfs, and the water is a light-tea color. Dry flies are still midges, caddis, blue-wing-olives, and a few stonefliesare starting to appear. Green drake nymphs have started to make a very large appearence on the river bottom. Higher flows are moving lots of food off the bottom. Nymph patterns include green drake nymphs, Copper Johns, Pheasant Tails, Princes, Hare’s Ears and stoneflies, sizes 10-16. Also try streamers in black, brown and olive, sizes 4-8. Call Almont Anglers at (970) 641-7404 or stop by for the latest reports.
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Trujillo Meadows Reservoir – The reservoir remains frozen and generally inaccessible. Ice-out usually occurs in early to mid-May, and the road is usually plowed by Memorial Day. This is the best trout-fishing lake in the Conejos River area. The lake water levels should be near capacity this summer. It offers good to excellent fishing for brown trout, 10-17 inches; brook trout, 7-13 inches; and rainbow trout, 10-16 inches from ice-out to July. The best brown-trout fishing is in the early morning and evenings using Rapalas, Kastmasters and streamer flies.
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Tucker Ponds – The onds are open, but have not yet been stocked. No current fishing report is available.
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Uncompahgre River in Ridgway Park – Flows are picking up for the spring runoff, and are in the high 300s. Fishing is still good.
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Vallecito Reservoir – Anglers are reporting plenty of action for trout, northern pike and walleyes. Most types of bait are effective now, as fish are hungry and active. Both surface and sinking flies will work for fly casters. Use large Rapalas and large streamer patterns for pike. Water dogs for pike are not yet available. Look for pike in the shallows as they are moving up to spawn. Trout are biting consistently on worms, Power Bait and salmon eggs near the dam.
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Williams Creek Reservoir – Anglers are reporting nice catches of 12- to 15-inch rainbows. Power Bait and worms have been working well. The stream below the dam is clear, but big hatches haven’t started yet. Woolly Buggers are the suggested fly.
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