| Denver Metro Region |
Arvada Reservoir – Fishing is slow. Water levels are extremely high, making shore fishing tough, but a few trout are being caught out of boats using Pop Geer and assorted spinners, and off the dock using rainbow Power Bait and worms.
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Aurora Reservoir – The water temperature is 68 degrees. Trout fishing success from shore has been slow for some and good for others. Trout are deep now. The best area has been the east end of dam and the norhtwest corner, casting out 40-50 yards with a slip rig with orange and rainbow Power Bait. From boats, trout action is fair to good trolling slowly with night crawlers, or anchoring in 20-30 feet of water and using Power Bait and crawlers. Walleye action has been good. Trolling with crawlers has worked best. Most are not of legal size. The limit for trout is two fish. Boating is restricted to electric motors. For additional information call 303-690-1286. THE PARK WILL BE CLOSED UNTIL 2:00 P.M. ON JULY 16TH.
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Barr Lake – Fishing for trout has been fair around the boat ramp using gold Kastmasters. Fathead minnows have been working off a bobber in the evening. Power Bait always a good bet. Carp have been in the shallows taking dough balls off the bottom.
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Bear Creek – The stream is a little muddy after the rains. Use terrestrials, caddis and mayflies for best results. Small spinners have been taking a few trout, as well.
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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 larger trout have been caught on small, bright-colored spinner lures.
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Berkeley Lake – Fishing for catchable-sized rainbow trout has been fair, but the water is becoming warm. The 40-acre lake also has largemouth bass, bluegills crappie and channel catfish, among other warm-water species. Boats are not permitted. A recreation center, playground and other amenities are available on the south side of the lake.
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Centennial Park Lake – The lake is stocked with catchable-sized trout into early summer. It also has a variety of warm-water fish, including bass, crappie, catfish and perch. Warm-water fishing has been gradually improving as the water warms up. No boats are allowed on the 15-acre lake. A playground, restrooms and handicapped-accessible fishing pier are available.
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Chatfield Ponds – Bass fishing has been the best here, using large shiners and buzzbaits. A large night crawler also is a safe bet.
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Chatfield Reservoir – Walleyes are hitting leeches fished from a Lindy Rig or worm harness. Most of the legal-sized walleyes have been taken around the intersection of the underwater roads near the dam. Smallmouth bass have been hitting trout Rapalas at the corners of the dam.
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Cherry Creek Reservoir – Trout fishing has been fun from the fishing access by Dixon Cove. Power Bait and salmon eggs are killer. Walleye fishing is fair, trolling Rapalas off a bottom bouncer. Keep a eye out for the water skiers.
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Clear Creek (above Hwy. 119) – The water is starting to clear, and fishing has been great. Stimulators and hopper patterns are a lot of fun for these small fish. Call 303-421-4025 for more patterns.
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Clear Lake – The lake south of Georgetown off the Guanella Pass road has catchable-sized rainbow trout and also 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. No boats are permitted on the lake. A campground is available one mile to the south.
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Evergreen Lake – Salmon eggs and Power Bait have been working best for trout in the evenings and early mornings. Tiger muskies can be spotted in the shallows. Call 303-421-4025 if you hook one.
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Georgetown Lake – A lot of trout averaging 10-14 inches reportedly have been caught. Use salmon eggs or chartreuse Power Bait for the best results. A size 12 Woolly Bugger is the ticket if you’re casting flies.
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Gross Reservoir – The tigers (muskies) will just plain scare you. They’re cruising the shoreline looking for a easy meal, and they are big. Use a dead sucker floated off the bottom close to shore. Use large Rapalas if you prefer to cast. Be prepared to replace your rod after hooking one of these awesome fish. Trout fishing has been good with Power Bait and eggs. For more information, call 303-421-4025.
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Jim Baker Reservoir – Fishing for catfish is good. Catfish ranging from 14 inches to 7 pounds have been reported. The big cats are cruising the shoreline looking for crayfish; people using sucker meat have been doing really well. Use a Renegade behind a bobber or a rainbow-colored Rooster Tail to get the trout. For more information, call 303-421-4025.
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Ketring Park Lake – The 15-acre lake has a variety of mostly small warm-water fish. Boats are not allowed.
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Main Lake – The fluctuating 45-acre lake has bass up to 18 inches, crappie, bluegills, catfish and other warm-water species. Bass fishing has been improving as the water warms up. Try spinnerbaits and small crankbaits. No boats are allowed on the lake.
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Quincy Reservoir – The temperature is 70 degrees. Trout fishing is slow to fair on flies in the evenings. Bead-head Flashback Pheasant Tails, Parachute Adams, Hare’s Ears and Copper Johns have worked for some. Bass action is slow to fair using surface plugs, spinnerbaits, buzzbaits and jigs. Perch action has been fair to good on jigs. 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 – The lake has been stocked, and the trout are good-sized. They are hungry for shiners off a bobber and orange Power Bait. A crayfish fly pattern also has been killing the trout. Fly-and-bobber outfits are working with Hare’s Ears, Renegades and brown Woolly Buggers.
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Sloans Lake – The lake has been stocked with trout, and this is a good place to take a kid fishing for a day. Use Power Bait and worms off the bottom. If fishing for trophy class carp, this is the place. Try to do it with a fly. Prince Nymphs or Pheasant Tails will do the job.
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Smith Reservoir – Warm-water fishing has been slow to fair, but has improved with rising water temperatures. The 45-acre lake has crappie, bass, bluegills, catfish and perch. Its largemouth and smallmouth bass provide potentially good fishing well into the summer. No boats are allowed on the lake.
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South Platte River (Waterton Canyon) – Heavy rains upstream have raised and discolored the river, making fishing difficult. The section from Strontia Springs Dam downstream to 300 yards above the Marston diversion structure is restricted to artificial flies and lures and offers the best fishing. The most effective lures for spin-fishermen 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 level is near capacity and the water temperature is in the upper 60s. Fishing for trout and wipers from boats has been good on lures and jigs at depths of 15-20 feet. Fishing from the shore has been fair for trout and a few bass and wipers off the bottom using Power Bait and worms. The park is open sunrise to sunset for walk-in access. Drive-in access is from 6:30 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 early summer fishing in an urban-park setting. Try a small Fle Fly jig or live minnow below a bobber about 3 feet down. Both lakes also have bass, bluegills and catfish. 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. As the summer goes on, warm-water fishing is becoming more productive. The lake has bass, perch, crappie and catfish. No boats are allowed. A handicapped-access fishing pier, playground and oher facilities are available.
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| Northeast Region |
Barker Reservoir – Shoreline fishing for rainbow trout has been fair to good on the usual variety of baits and lures. The inlet region has been among the most productive areas. Fly fishermen typically have their best luck at the inlet, also. Tiger muskies can be found in deeper waters – try along the north shore. The water level is very good.
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Barnes Meadow Reservoir – Fishing for chunky, 14- to 16-inch rainbows and cuttbows has been good the past couple of years, but through sustained heavy fishing pressure, the average size of fish has declined. Some of the larger fish still can be taken on Power Bait, worms, salmon eggs, Rooster Tail spinners, Tasmanian Devils and Kastmasters. Fly fishermen can do well at certain times of the day from belly boats or canoes. Boats with gasoline motors are not permited. No ramp is available; all boats must be carried some 50 yards to the water. Access is on the west side of the dam; the east side is private property. Pack out what you pack in.
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Bellaire Lake – Catchable-sized trout comprise most of the catch. Fishing for them has been fair to good on a variety of baits and lures.
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Big Creek Lakes – The lakes are open and fishing for catchable-sized rainbows, brook trout and small mackinaw has been hit-and-miss. Nearby U.S. Forest Service campgrounds have been full.
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Big Thompson Ponds – Fishing has been slow, with anglers mainly catching small perch and crappie. The ponds also have bluegills, and fly fishing for them can be lots of fun for kids and other beginners.
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Big Thompson River – The rain last weekend muddied up the Big T but it is now clearing. Green drakes are still hatching; drake patterns to use: Royal Wulff, Green Drake Wulff, Ice Drake and Quigley’s Crown Jewel Drake, all in size 12. Caddis are a good choice for morning or evening fishing, with Elk Hairs, Last Calls and Foam Caddis in size 16. For nymphs, try Caddis pupae, Hotwire Caddis, Mangy Caddis and Hare’s Ears in size 16. PMDs are also hatching and a size 16 PMD Parachute, Thorax or any PMD nymph is a good choice. Another option is streamers. Try a green or black Woolly Bugger. For spin-fishing, Mepps and Panther Martins are still the best bet. In the non catch-and-release section, eggs and worms will be fine choices. For daily conditions, call Estes Angler at 970-586-2110.
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Boedecker Reservoir – Crappie fishermen are doing well in the trees that are flooded close to shore. People using minnows are doing best.
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Boulder Reservoir – Fishing for smallmouth bass has been good along the dam. Walleyes have moved off the bank, and fishing for 15- to 16-inch fish remains fairly good. 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. The lake has been crowded with water skiers and other summer recreationists. Be aware of increased fees for summertime boating. 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 – The level is low, the temperature is around 74 degrees and the water is a bit turbid. Fishing has slowed, though some largemouth bass, white bass, crappie and perch still are being taken. Low-light periods and days with some wave action on the water may be the best time to fish. For white bass, locate a school near the surface and try a small plastic grub, topwater plug, shallow-running crankbait, silver/white Rooster Tail spinner or streamer fly. Largemouth bass have been hitting grubs, tube jigs, small plastic worms rigged Carolina style and bucktail streamers fished on a sinking line. Walleyes have been taking jigs off the bottom in 8-12 feet of water and trolled crayfish tails in 8-15 feet. The water level is dropping, which could eventually make boating difficult to impossible.
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Carter Reservoir – Trout fishing has slowed. Bass fishing is still fair using spinners and plastic worms. Walleye fishing has been very good on the east side of the lake. Fisherman, be sure to ask a ranger for the official Carter Lake fish-measurement stickers for your boat.
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Chambers Lake – The water level has come up and boat access again is available. Fishing for rainbow and lake trout has been good to excellent. Mackinaw have averaged 15 inches. Rainbows have been smaller, though some nice ones have been taken. Power Bait, salmon eggs and worms have worked well for rainbows. Try a spinner tipped with sucker meat for mackinaw. The north side has been fishing well. The lake has not yet been stocked, but early season is the best time for mackinaw.
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Cowdrey Lake – Cowdrey is fishing fairly well with Kastmasters in gold or silver and floating Rapalas in rainbow and silver. For fly-and-bubble fishermen, the Pistol Pete in olive or a Renegade pattern will catch the interest of many fish. Fly fishermen are doing fair with No. 16 red Chironomids and olive Woolly Buggers. Fishing has been best from boats on the west side of the lake in 8-10 feet of water.
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Douglas Reservoir – The water level is very low and the boat ramp is unusable. Otherwise, rainbow trout have been hitting bright-colored Rooster Tails. Large shiners fished along the rocks will produce some nice wipers. The wipers are holding right out from the boat ramp. Give this area a good looking over.
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Dowdy Lake (Red Feather) – The U.S. Forest Service has closed the lake and road leading into it to all public access while upgrades are being made to the campground and other facilities. The closure will be in effect at least through the end of the year.
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East Delaney Lake – Fish have been aggressively taking Callibaetis dry flies. Damselflies are starting to move in the weed beds, with fish keying in on the nymphs, as well as midges that still are emerging. Temperatures are high midday and cooling significantly at night, so look for Chironomids in late afternoon and crayfish and big streamers in the evening. This time of year, tube-jig style lures(swim baits) and marabou jigs are working well. 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 – The lake has been fishing well. Power Bait, worms and eggs all are good bets, and small spinners will work well, too. Mornings and evenings are seeing fish rising to midges, so small midge flies such as midge adults, Griffiths Gnats and Stuck in the Shucks will work well in sizes 20-22. Terrestrials (beetles and ants) will also be a good fly choice. Try sizes 14-18. Caddis are also starting to show, so caddis patterns is sizes 14-16 will do well. Sight fishing to rising fish in the evenings is an enjoyable way to fish Lake Estes.
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Flatiron Reservoir – The reservoir has been stocked with catchable-sized trout. Fishing has been good, with fishermen easily catching their limits. The action has been best using night crawlers or pink Power Bait.
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Hidden Lakes – The lakes are free of ice. Fishermen have been few, and current reports are unavailable.
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Hohnholz Lakes – Lake No. 2 is doing well for last year’s holdover stockers. Use worms on the bottom close to the boat ramp. A limit is easy to achieve on a bobber and Halfback nymph or a size 12 Pheasant Tail. Lake No. 3 is good for big browns using black Woolly Buggers or scud patterns. The monster browns will not have a problem eating a large streamer.
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Horsetooth Reservoir – Summertime fishing remains good. Some keeper-sized walleyes still are being caught in several areas around the lake, including Inlet Bay, Dixon Cove and along the dams. Minnows with a bobber and night crawlers are your best bet for success. All coves seem to have good productivity levels, with Dixon and Soldier coves topping the list. Anglers in Inlet Bay have been having success catching smallmouth bass on minnows and bright-colored Mister Twisters. Crankbaits have also seen success, and fly fishermen have enjoyed some good action on Clouser Minnows. Trout fishing has been most successful in the Inlet Bay area using orange and pink Power Bait. A new size regulation for walleyes is in effect this year. All fish must be at least 18 inches long, but only one can exceed 21 inches.
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Jackson Reservoir – Fishing for trout and catfish is fair from the dam using night crawlers. Fishing from boats is also fair for trout and catfish near the dam and the north end of the reservoir using night crawlers. Water is being released, so fishing should once again pick up in the outlet. The water temperature is in the mid to high 70s.
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Joe Wright Reservoir – The lake is free of ice and has been fishing well for grayling and the Emerald Lake strain of rainbow trout. Fly fishing for grayling averaging 10-12 inches has been best near the inlet. Though many patterns will work, black or dark-colored nymphs are especially productive. The inlet up to Highway 114 is closed to fishing through July 31. Fishermen may use only artificial flies and lures. The limit for trout is two fish at least 16 inches long. The daily limit for grayling is four.
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Jumbo Reservoir – Fishing is slow for all species. The boat ramp still is accessible. The reservoir is 60 percent full. The Annex is full. No boats or any kind of flotation devices are allowed on the Annex. A habitat stamp is required to enter these properties.
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Lake John – Callibaetis, damselflies, minnow patterns, worms and Power Bait all work well at Lake John. Trolling from a boat is the most effective way to fish the lake. 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 – Again, the camping area between the Hohnholtz lakes is the hot spot. Fish have been spotted by looking down from the bridge. Use a black Elk-hair caddis to get some surface activity.
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Lon Hagler Reservoir – Fishing for catfish has been good in the late afternoon into evening. Smallmouth bass have been fairly active near the dam and largemouths in the brush around the upper end. The crappie bite has died down.
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Lonetree Reservoir – The reservoir is nearly full and the water temperature is about 68 degrees. Some decent-sized fish are being taken, but fishermen are having to work for them. Fishing for walleyes and wipers has been fair to good on some days, casting or trolling shallow- to medium-running crankbaits, but the action has been inconsistent. Float-tubing fly fishermen have been taking a few largemouth bass and crappie on Clouser Minnows, and panfish on No. 12 Halfback nymph patterns fished behind a streamer.
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Long Draw Reservoir – The U.S. Forest Service reports the road to the reservoir has opened, providing access to Long Draw, Trap Lake and Peterson Reservoir. Expect fair to good early season fishing.
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Lost Lake (at Chambers) – Fishing generally has been slow. Power Bait, salmon eggs, worms and spinners have taken a few fish. The lake has had a litter problem, and fishermen are asked to pack out their trash.
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North Delaney Lake – North Delaney has been fair to good. If the wind calms down, look for fish to focus on Callibaetis on the surface between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Fly fishermen have been doing well with large streamer patterns, fished on a slick line in 8-10 feet of water, and Callibaetis dries. 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 and in deeper water with 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 – Fishermen have enjoyed good success on Power Bait, salmon eggs, worms, Rooster Tails, black Woolly Buggers, Prince Nymphs and Renegades. The inlet area and the creek below the dam have been especially productive for fly fishermen.
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North Park Alpine Lakes – The lakes are open, with a few of the trails having some small snow drifts. At Lake Agnes, fly fishermen have been catching some nice cutthroat trout on Prince Nymphs, black Woolly Buggers, Pheasant Tails and caddisfly nymphs.
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North Park Streams – Water levels are still low. Irrigation should be over soon. Streamers are still working in the deeper holes, and at the tail end of a riffle. Hopper rigs with something dropped underneath works well, too. Lure fishermen need only cast a No. 3 Mepps spinner – gold or a red-and-white combination – and hold on. The more displacement and attraction created, the more likely fish will be enticed to strike. Michigan Creek below the reservoir and through Walden is a great option, as well as the Richards state lease on the North Fork. Conditions are changing daily, so call North Park Anglers at (970) 723-4215 for the most timely report.
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North Platte River – The river is down to 400 cfs. Not much is happening in the way of streamer fishing. Caddis are coming off, as well as PMDs and little yellow stoneflies (yellow Sallies). Heavy moss growth is making nymphing challenging, but why fish nymphs when you can throw dries? Hopper patterns in tan and yellow have been hot, as well as light-body caddis. Look to the deeper runs and the pocket water around rocks to hold fish. Call North Park Anglers at (970) 723-4215 for conditions updates.
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North Sterling Reservoir – The water temperature is around 75 degrees. Fishing for catfish is good in the coves on shrimp and crayfish, mostly after dark and during early morning. Fishing has been fair for walleyes, which are moving out a little. Troll the dam or main lake points with crankbaits or Curly Tail jigs. Fishing for wipers has been good off the dam and main lake points using bait. Most are shorter than the 15 inch-minimum. Trout and crappie fishing is slow. The lake is at about 65 percent of capacity, covering about 1,875 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) – This lake is a tuber’s paradise with, only mild wind some of the time. Troll the moss line as summer goes on and hook big browns. Gold Krocodiles have been a favorite. Dawn and dusk are the best times at this lake.
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Pinewood Reservoir – The reservoir has been stocked with catchable-sized trout. Fishing is fair to good using salmon eggs, Power Bait and worms. The Fisherman’s Cove area near the inlet is still the best place to catch a limit.
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Poudre River – The river continues to drop and clear and is becoming more and more wadeable. Stoneflies and caddis are the primary insects on the water. Caddis imitators, stonefly nymphs, attractors such as Stimulators and small streamers remain good fly choices. The lower river is fishable, and conditions improve a little more upstream. Spin-fishermen might try red-bladed Mepps or silver Colorado spinners. Call St. Peters Fly Shop at (970) 498-8968 for updates.
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Prewitt Reservoir – The water level is 50 percent. The boat ramp and boat dock are out of the water, and no boats can be launched unless they are carried in. Fishing for all species is slow. A habitat stamp is required to enter this property.
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Ranger Lakes – The area has not opened for the season. Upper Ranger Lake was drained for dam repairs last year. It is expected to refill this summer, probably sometime in August.
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Rocky Mountain National Park – After the rain, the park is starting to clear and this week will provide some good fishing. Caddis and small stoneflies are active. Size 16-18 Elk Hair Caddis, Stimulators and Trudes work well. For nymphs, try Anato Mays, size 18; Ice Nymphs, 18-20; bead-head Pheasant Tails, 18-20; and small attractor nymphs like Spitfires and Lightning Bugs in size 16-18. PMDs are hatching in the park – so try PMD dries and nymphs in size 16-18. The green drakes have also stared to come off, so Royal Wulff, Green Drake Wulff, Ice Drake and Quigley’s Crown Jewel, all in size 12, are good bets. Lakes are iced-out and fishing well, with midges being the main hatch. Try Stuck-in-the-Shucks and adults in size 20-22. Also try Beetles and Ants. For daily conditions, call Estes Angler at 970-586-2110.
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Seeley Lake – Fishing for tigers is poor at present. If you fish here, use large, fish-looking lures. Fish slowly; present an easy target for those tigers. Bass fishing is picking up using worms off the bottom.
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Simpson Ponds – Fishing for mostly small warm-water species has been slow to fair. A few bass and crappie have been taken on small, light-colored floating Rapalas. A slowly retrieved plastic worm rigged Texas or Carolina style also can be effective. Fishermen also have been catching lots of small catfish. The water is becoming murky, and a few of the ponds have some weed growth that can present some problems.
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South Delaney Lake – A strong Callibaetis hatch and midges have been evident throughout the day. Warmer weather is getting fish active. Damselfly nymphs and Kastmasters (gold or green) should be the ticket this weekend. Size 14-16 scuds in olive and tan also will take fish. 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 – With the rain, clarity has been reduced, but the water should clear in the next day or so. The pocket water of the upper river should be easier and more productive. Mayflies and small brown stoneflies are the most common hatches. Caddis also are on the water. Down lower, at Lyons, the river is high from the rain. On the lower St. Vrain, fish the edges and pockets for the best activity.
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Teal and Tiago Lakes – Both lakes have been stocked with catchable-sized trout and fishing for them has been fair to good. Try the standard baits and lures, and don’t overlook the fly-bubble possibilities, especially in late afternoon. Nearby U.S. Forest Service campgrounds have been busy.
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Union Reservoir (Calkins) – Anglers are still catching 15- to 20-inch wipers, with a few larger ones also being taken. Trolling with small, white or yellow Mister Twisters or worm harnesses has been working well. Mussels fished about a foot off the bottom are also working well for the wipers. Evenings and days with some chop on the water are the best times. A few nice crappie have been caught around the fishing pier at sunrise. Fishing for trout is slow. Nice channel catfish are being caught using stink bait or cut shad. Most are between 3 and 5 pounds, with several up to 14 pounds. The reservoir is currently 3 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 – Rainbows have been fishing real well. Fish on the west side and use a bobber and fly. Black Woolly Buggers, Pheasant Tails, and Matukas will produce fish. Smallmouth bass are close to shore, hitting rabbit-hair jigs.
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Wellington Reservoir #4 – Rainbow-colored Rooster Tails fished deep and slow have been filling peoples’ stringers. Try Power Bait if you’d rather sit and fish; it’s a great way to spend a day.
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| Northwest Region |
Blue River (below Green Mountain Reservoir) – With the reservoir nearly full, flows on Monday were 978 cfs. Fishing is good. Watch for BWOs and duns on the water. Hoppers should work, as well. For current conditions, call the Fishin’ Hole in Kremmling at (970) 724-9407.
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Blue River (Dillon to Green Mtn. Res.) – The Blue below Dillon Dam is back up 229 cfs, some of which is coming over the spillway. In town, it’s been somewhat off-color. San Juan worms with a size 16 Mysis shrimp have been working well. Also, Candy Canes, Barr’s PMD Emergers, Zebra Midges, 5-O Midges and Red Brassies. From Silverthorne to Green Mountain Reservoir, it remains a plethora of multiple hatches – caddis in the morning, green drakes midday, caddis, red quills and rusty spinners in the evening. The fish seem to still be keying in on green drakes throughout the day, switching to red quills in the magic hour before dark. With all the rain, the Blue has been getting off-color after a hard shower, but not unfishable.
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Colorado River (below Parshall) – With flows being controlled, levels on the Colorado at Parshall are good and fishing is excellent. Lots of PMDs are hatching. The stretch upstream of Pumphouse also is fishing very well with caddis and PMDs. 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 is fishing superbly from Glenwood Springs to Rifle, where river flows are at 3,920 cfs. The river is slightly discolored though very fishable, and is seeing superb hatches of green drakes in the evenings as well as PMDs, yellow Sallies and caddis during the afternoons. This is easily the best fishing of the entire year on the lower Colorado. Mornings are on the slow side, though midday through the evening hours are epic. Hot flies include: Royal Wulffs, Drake Sparkleduns, Rusty Spinners, PMD Pink Paras, Pearl and Elk Caddis, Yellow Humpies, Princes, 20 Inchers, Copper Johns, and Pheasant Tails. Call the Taylor Creek Flyshop for daily reports at 970-927-4374.
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Colorado River (near Granby) – Small nymphs, Woolly Buggers and Copper Johns have been working well. Caddis, mosquito, and dun patterns are hot. Cool nights and cloudy, light-rain conditions have kept water temperatures cooler, helping the fishing to remain good.
The Parshall Hole is fishing well. This whole area was very busy throughout the 4th of July holiday. The stream flow below Windy Gap is running around 416cfs. The Williams Fork near Parshall is flowing around 170cfs. 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 clear above Redstone and flowing at 554 cfs in Carbondale. Good hatches of green drakes and caddis are occurring in the evening hours. Midday nymphing is best using Z-Wings, Princes, 20 Inchers, BLMs and Pheasant Tails. The fishing has been consistant from Redstone up to Marble. Below Redstone, the river has been discolored due to recent rains. For daily river reports, contact the Taylor Creek Flyshop at 970-927-4374.
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Elk River – The river dropped, cleared, became discolored through rain and has cleared again. Through it all, recent fishing has been very good. Large caddis dry flies and stonefly nymphs have been the top patterns for fly fishermen.
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Fryingpan River – Fishing on the Frying Pan has been outstanding lately, with river flows at about 112 cfs. Heavy hatches of PMDs, BWOs, and caddis during midday are giving way to a blanketing hatch of Rusty Spinners in the late evenings. Nymph fishing in the mornings is best using Poxyback PMDs, Pheasant Tails, Hunchback PMDs and BTS Baetis. Midday hatches can be covered with PMD No-Hackles, PMD Pink Sparkleduns, Harrops Pink PMD Thorax, Para Quill Baetis, and Frying Pan Emergers. Light tippets of 6 and 7x are mandatory. Green drakes are also fishing well in the lower sections of river and just began hatching lat week. Look for the drakes to make their way up to the dam by August. Contact the Taylor Creek Flyshop for daily river reports at 970-927-4374.
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Granby Reservoir – Nighttime tempuratures in the 30s and cloudy conditions with rain showers have helped keep fishing good. Shoreline fishing remains good. The water level has stabilized. Fish are found at all depths, but changing weather and other factors have moved them around. Worms are working very well, both in bottom fishing and trolling. The 4th of July holiday went very well. The fishing was wonderful and, surprisingly, the catching of fish was done by the majority of fishermen, both from the banks and from boats. Wherever water is running into the lake, fishing is good. Down riggers are back in vogue with good results. For current conditions call Budget Tackle in Granby at (970)887-9344.
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Grand Lake – Conditions remain constant. Trolling can be productive. Jigging also is used a lot. Kastmasters, Rapalas and worm harnesses are popular, as well as Power Bait and eggs. Fly fishing is also productive. Please call Budget Tackle if you have any first-hand fishing reports. During the 4th of July holiday, the east end produced fish. For current conditions, call Budget Tackle in Granby at (970) 887-9344.
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Green Mountain Reservoir – The lake is full. Fishing is starting to slow down during the day. Night crawlers and salmon eggs are still working. Morning and evening are the best times. Boaters are catching salmon toward the inlet by trolling.
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Harvey Gap Reservoir – Harvey Gap is 12 feet below full, and the water temperature is 70 degrees. Try for pike and trout off the dam with a gold or silver spoon, or trolling with a deep-running lure. Crappie are picking up around the dam from 5 to 6 p.m. Hopefully, the activity for bass, bluegills, sunfish and catfish will soon follow. 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 Parks annual passes are available at the Rifle Gap visitor center.
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Highline Lake – The water temperature is about 79 degrees. Fishing for catfish is really improving. A couple of 9-pound catfish have been pulled out near the dam using night crawlers. Crappie still are excellent, as well. Both boat ramps are open. Use caution on the east ramp because of a lot of silt and debris from the inlet.
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Lake Avery – Fishing for trout has slowed, but remains fair to good for shoreline bait fishermen. Chartreuse and rainbow Power Bait and night crawlers have been the most effective baits. Trollers have been getting some fish on gold-colored spoons and spiners. 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 79 degrees. Trout fishing has slowed down but remains fair. Mack Mesa is restricted to hand-propelled craft or boats with small, electric trolling motors.
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Muddy Creek – With water flows at 107 cfs, fishing on the public water downstream of Wolford Mountain Reservoir is excellent. Fish this and the tailwaters for browns and rainbows with spinners or a streamer fly. For current conditions, call the Fishin’ Hole in Kremmling at (970) 724-9407.
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Pearl Lake – Olive Woolly Buggers, gray caddis, blue-wing-olives and any blue Baetis pattern might work. Early morning and sunset hours are the best times. Expect little to no action during the day unless you are fishing from a boat, dragging the bottom. Some nice-sized cutthroats have been taken from the lake. An artificial-flies-and-lures restriction is in effect.
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Rifle Gap Reservoir – The lake is 15 feet below full. The water temperature is 71 degrees. Try deep-running lures or streamer flies for pike. Trout have been hitting Panther Martin spinners and Hot Shots, as well as night crawlers on the bottom. Perch fishing is picking up using a No. 8 hook tipped with a small piece of worm. Try fishing on the northwest end of the island for perch or at Rainbow. A few visitors caught walleyes last weekend. The boat ramp and docks are in the water. For walleyes, use a deep-running lure or jig at about a 20-foot depth. 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 northern pike on chartreuse and yellow buzzbaits around the weed beds in the mornings. Many of the pike are “hammer handles” but at least one larger fish reportedly was hooked in recent days. Some crappie and bass still are being taken on jigs and worms. The water level appears to be the best in several years. For current conditions, call Wyatt’s Sporting Goods in Meeker at (970) 878-4428.
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Roaring Fork River – Now is he best fishing of the entire year on the Roaring Fork River. Green drakes are everywhere on the river from just above Basalt downstream to Glenwood Springs, making for an absolute blitz of rising fish in the late evening hours. The heaviest drake hatch is occuring between Basalt and Carbondale. Nymphing prior to the heavy hatches of PMDs, Sallies, and caddis has been effective using 20 Inchers, Molting Stones, Sunken Spinners, BLMs, Pheasant Tails, Princes, Deep 6 Caddis and Z-Wing Caddis. The most effective dry flies include Royal Wulffs, BDE Drakes, H&Ls, Yellow Humpies, Ethawing Caddis, and Rusty Spinners. Fishing can only be described as epic along the river right now. Contact the Taylor Creek Flyshop for daily reports at 970-927-4374.
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Shadow Mountain Reservoir – Fishing with slip-bobber setups has been very productive in the canal and at the mouth. Drifting a worm, especially when the pumps are on, has worked well. Kokanee salmon, rainbows, and browns are being caught. Trolling and fishing the east bank in the old river bed have been good. Fishing continues to be good below Shadow Mountain Dam all the way to Granby Reservoir. The rate of flow from the dam has decreased, but catch rates are up for all species. Sow bugs and Mysis shrimp patterns, as well as midges, RS-2s, and Copper Johns are working. Gregg’s mergers have been very productive. Rapalas, Kastmasters and Panther Martins are popular lures. Worms continue to feed the fish and bring them in. For current conditions call Budget Tackle in Granby at(970) 887-9344.
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Stagecoach Reservoir – The fishing has been off-and-on for shoreline anglers this week. Worms and rainbow Power Bait have been working pretty well around the dam area while yellow and pink Power Bait have been working well for boaters and anglers around the inlet. The pike have also been off-and-on. Rainbow Pistol Petes, Woolly Buggers, and gold spinners have worked well for some anglers. The fly fishing around the Tailwaters has been rather slow, as well, which could be due to the recent rain showers. Try using damsel nymphs or scuds. For those anglers choosing to fish from boats, remember to be courteous to other fisherman by staying at least 50 yards away from shoreline anglers while operating your watercraft, and obey the no-wake zones. For more conditions information, please visit www.parks.state.co.us
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Steamboat Lake – Fly fisherman might want to try a damselfly in the Meadow Point area. Bait fisherman continue to do well. Silver spoons are worth a try.
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Trappers Lake – Fishing for cutthroat and brook trout remains fairly good. Float-tube fishermen have enjoyed the best success. Nymphing remains productive, and Royal Coachman, Royal Wulff and Adams patterns have taken fish on top. For spin-fishermen, brass-finish lures have worked best. 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 has slowed down some because the lake is starting to turn. Most fish are running 13-19 inches, and are biting well on worms, Power Bait and lures. Fly fishing is good on Plateau Creek with mosquito and San Juan worm patterns. Stop by the Visitor Center and share your success story. The Early Settlers, Oak Point and Island boat ramps are open. Make reservations now by calling (800) 678-2267 or logging on to www.parks.state.co.us. All the latest conditions and events can also be found at this Web site.
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White River – The river came up and became little discolored with recent rains, but should be in good condition by the weekend. Before the rain, fishing had been good, with several reports of 2- to 4-pound fish being taken. Mayfly patterns, dark stonefly nymphs and attractor patterns such as Royal and Gray Wulffs were productive. For updates, call Wyatt’s Sporting Goods in Meeker at (970) 878-4428.
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Williams Fork Reservoir – With the recent rain, the surface temperature is staying down. Big lakers are feeding in 20-30 feet of water, and good trout are being caught in the inlet. Try off the points for big lakers; up in the inlet for good-sized trout. For current conditions, call the Fishin’ Hole in Kremmling at (970) 724-9407.
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Williams Fork River – With flows at 172 cfs and clear, fishing remains good. BWOs and blue duns have produced some surface activity. Grsshoppers are out, also. For current conditions, call the Fishin’ Hole in Kremmling at (970) 724-9407.
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Willow Creek Reservoir – The reservoir is a no-wake-boating lake. Catch rates continue to be good, with kids leading the way. Power Bait and worms are the baits of choice. Rapalas, Kastmasters, and Panther Martins also have been doing well. Trolling also is a proven way of catching fish. This area is very beautiful and, because of easy bank access, great for kids. For current conditions call Budget Tackle in Granby at (970) 887-9344.
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Wolford Reservoir – Anglers have been doing very well as the lake continues to run over the spillway. Fish the coves and shallow water on the east side or the inlet. 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 river came up and gained color with the recent rainfall, but conditions should be improving soon. 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) – The river was affected by rain, but conditions have improved and should be prime by the weekend. Hatches of green drakes and yellow Sallies have been winding down, but trout are still are rising to PMDs and caddis. Dry-dropper rigs have been effective at other times. An attractor such as a Royal Wulff or Stimulator is used as the lead fly, with a chartreuse Copper John nymph as the droppper. Call the Steamboat Fly Fishing Company at (970) 879-6552 for current conditions.
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| Southeast Region |
Adobe Creek Res. (Blue Lake) – Fishing for catfish is fair. Anglers are catching nice-sized channel and blue catfish. No fires or fireworks are permitted on the wildlife area. Be aware of an endangered species enclosure (marked with signs). That area is closed to all public access. The water level is improved from last summer, but summer irrigation releases have already drawn the lake down to low-water conditions. 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. 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. Though activity has slowed with hot weather, fishermen have enjoyed fair success for pan-sized trout on Power Bait or worms off the bottom. Late afternoons into the evening, and cooler, overcast days have been the best times to fish, a pattern that is likely to continue into the summer.
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Arkansas River #3 (Through Pueblo) – The flow is very high because of runoff from the recent heavy rains. Water is flowing at 3,160 cfs below the dam, and is very muddy. The tailwater is currently unwadable and impossible to fish. Call the Ark Anglers shop in Pueblo at (719) 543-3900 for an update on changing conditions. 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) – Flows in Browns Canyon are about 800 cfs and will probably decline to 700 over the next week. Fishing is excellent on this reach downstream as far as Big Bend. Pale morning duns during the day and caddis in the evening have been the rule, with some golden and yellow Sally stoneflies mixed in. Below Big Bend there has been some flash flood activity and conditions are variable. Check in before heading to this stretch. Go to www.arkanglers.com for more information.
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Arkansas River (Leadville to Buena Vista) – The flows are 285 cfs at Hayden Meadows and 620 cfs at Granite, with clear, cool water. Pale morning duns, caddis, and yellow Sally stoneflies are hatching on this section. For more information, visit www.arkanglers.com or call our Buena Vista shop at 719-395-1796.
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Arkansas River (Salida to Canon City) – Flows continue to be around 800 cfs at Wellsville, with a likely drop to 700 by the weekend. Hard-hit by recent thunderstorms, this section is on the mend from Salida down to Badger Creek (Howard), and has been pretty murky from Howard on down. It should improve with a cessation of storm activity – check on conditions before heading to this section. Go to www.arkanglers.com for updated reports.
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Beckwith Reservoir – Fishing success largely depends on the periodic stocking of catchable-sized trout. Try salmon eggs, Power Bait or night crawlers, or small, shiny spoons and spinners.
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Bonny Reservoir – A few 1- to 3-pound catfish were taken from shore and boats last week. A few walleyes were taken trolling crankbaits around the lake. The surface water temperature is around 76 degrees. The two-lane marina ramp is open and the courtesy dock has been installed. The lake is still 19.5 feet below the full mark and slowly dropping. For current conditions, click on “more info,” below, and then on “conditions” on the left.
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Brush Hollow Reservoir – Heavy rain in the area has raised the water level and the boat ramp reportely again is usable. Warm-water fishing has been picking up, especilly for bluegills, catfish and largemouth bass. Some of the catfish have been in the 5-pound range, taken on chicken livers and other traditional catfish baits. Fishing for rainbow trout has been slow with the rising water temperature. A DOW creel census is being conducted at the lake and anglers are asked to participate in the study.
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Catamount Reservoirs, North & South – Fishing for rainbow trout remains fairly good, but mackinaw have moved to somewhat deeper water. Olive Woolly Buggers and Kastmaster lures have been producing well, as have small Copper Johns and Prince nymphs. Some of the fish are recent stockers; others are larger, holdover trout. Both lakes are stocked with catchable-sized trout and both also have mackinaw and a few brook trout. Both have good water levels to begin the fishing season. North Catamount has a flies-and-lures restriction. The lakes are part of the Pikes Peak North Slope Recreation Area. An access fee for the Pikes Peak Highway is required to fish these lakes.
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Clear Creek Reservoir – Shoreline fishing for rainbow trout remains good. Night crawlers and salmon eggs have been productive baits, and Z-Rays and red-and-white Dardevles have been effective spinning lures. Trolling with Pop Geer trailing worms along the south shore has been producing some larger trout and a few kokanee salmon. Fly-bubble fishing with Renegade patterns has been fair, primarily around the inlet area in the late afternoon. The lake typically produces very good fishing for rainbow, cutthroat and a few large brown trout. The water-supply reservoir was full last year and also will be filled to capacity in 2006.
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Cottonwood Lake – Fishing has been fair to good. Salmon eggs, night crawlers, rainbow Power Bait and small spinning lures have been taking some trout.
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Crystal Creek Reservoir – Fishing for catchable-sized trout has been fair to good on a variety of baits and lures. The water level is improving from the past few years. The reservoir is part of the North Slope Recreation Area, and access requires paying a fee at the Pikes Peak Highway tollgate.
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Daigre Reservoir – Dark-colored flies and black Pistol Petes still are as effective as anything for trout. Fishermen may use only artificial flies and lures at the lake.
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DeWeese Reservoir – Fishing for catchable-sized rainbow trout has been fair. Try worms, Power Bait and other standard baits. A few holdover rainbow trout are in the 16- to 20-inch range. The lake has a few brown trout, some in the 16- to 18-inch range, smallmouth bass of 6-12 inches with, some larger, and a few tiger muskies. 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 longer. No limit applies to northern pike. Trout action is good. Hot-color Power Bait(especially orange,green, pink, and lemon twist), night crawlers, blue and gold Kastmasters, Dardevles and Pistol Petes are working well. Trout of more than 20 inches reportedly were being caught. Pike fishing is heating up, especially using Rapalas, tube jigs, and Pike Bunnies. Kokanee salmon action is good to excellent from boats using Pop Geer, Kastmasters, and various pink, orange, and green trolling spoons.
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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 but slows down during the summer months. The lake also has some catfish.
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Hayden Meadows Reservoir – The lake south of Leadville is regularly stocked with catchable-sized trout, and fishing usually is fair to good on a variety of baits and lures. Fly fishing, either with a fly-bubble outfit or a regular fly rod, can be very good in the late afternoon.
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Horseshoe Reservoir – The water level is good and the water temperature is in the low to mid 70s. Shore and boat anglers have reported trout fishing slowing down because of the rising water temperature. Bass and catfish are starting to pick up. Popular baits are Fireballs, regular salmon eggs, worms, Power Bait, spinnerbaits and small minnows. The best time for fishing is nights and early mornings. The boat dock is in place. For current conditions, call (719) 738-2376.
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Jefferson Lake – Shoreline fishing for rainbow trout has been consistently good, and with recent stocking should remain that way. Mornings and late afternoons have been the best times. Shiny spinning lures and bright-colored Power Bait have worked well then. Night crawlers off the bottom have been productive during the bright part of the day. Boating fishermen generally have been less successful. Only a handful of small lake trout have been reported. The lake typically offers good fishing for stocked trout, as well as occasional holdover rainbows and brook trout through the summer. Large mackinaw can be taken from shore early in the season, and smaller (12- to 18-inch)lakers are taken from shore through the summer.
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John Martin Reservoir – The water temperature is about 75 degrees. Fishermen have been taking some large channel catfish on shrimp and chicken liver in the reservoir and the spillway. Many young wipers and saugeyes went through the dam last year, but white bass, crappie and catfish remain abundant in season. ATVs and dirt bikes are not permitted on the state wildlife area or the state park.
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Lake Henry – The water level has been fair to good so far this summer. Fishing for catfish has been slow. 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. The shallow water has created large weed mats on the entire lake. Boating is imposssible because of inaccessibility and the weed beds.
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Manitou Lake – Fishing for catchable-sized trout has been fair, with most of the fsh taken on worms. Success at the popular 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 water level is high. The temperature is in the low to mid 70s. Trout fishing remains fairly good on Fireballs, regular salmon eggs and worms. Northern pike are being caught both from boats and the shore. Trolling crankbaits or casting spinnerbaits in the cattails has been the most productive. Fishing for saugeyes and walleyes, perch and catfish has been slow to fair by trolling or casting a jig tiped with a night crawler. The bass fishing is starting to pick up as the water temperature warms up.The fire ban has been lifted, so fires are allowed in designated areas, but we still need to use caution. Call the park office at 719-738-2376 for current conditions.
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Montgomery Reservoir – The lake is open for fishing and recently was stocked with catchable-sized trout. The water level has been very low but should come up quickly.
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Monument Reservoir – Fishing for recently stocked trout and a few holdovers has been fair to good on the usual variety of baits and lures. Power Bait has been especially productive. Fishing should remain good in 2006. 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 slowed somewhat for wipers and saugeyes. Anglers are still catching some wipers on worms and trolled crankbaits, and saugeyes also are hitting trolled cranks and jigs tipped with worms or minnows. Anglers should be aware of new saugeye/walleye regulations at Nee Gronda. The limit is 5 fish; all must be at least 15 inches, but only one can be 21 inches or greater. A fire ban has been implemented for Kiowa County. No campfires or fireworks are allowed. The state boat ramp on the east shore is usable for launching small- to medium-sized 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 – Fishing is fair for catfish and wipers. A fire ban has been implemented for Kiowa County. No campfires or fireworks are allowed. 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 consistently good for anglers hiking down from the trailhead at the Rampart Reservoir dam. Kastmasters in silver and gold or with some red have been the hot lures. The water level is improved from last year and fishing should remain good through the summer.
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North Lake – Fishing for rainbow trout and occasional splake has been fair to good. Effective patterns for fly fishermen have included yellow and bead-head nymphs, Irresistibles, Elk-hair Caddis, Parachute Adams and Hare’s Ears. Both fly-bubble and conventional fly tackle are commonly used. North Lake is restricted to fishing with artificial flies and lures. Anglers are reminded to check the new definition of artificial in the fishing regulations booklet. The lake will provide some excellent fishing for catchable rainbow trout and splake this year. The splake population continues to improve and plays a key role in fisheries management on the lake. Habitat stamps are required for the state wildlife area. People are reminded of fire bans in the region, and that they are in bear country.
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Palmer Lake – The water level remains very low and the lake has not been stocked.
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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, but the water is becoming warmer. Fishing for warm-water species is a year or two away.
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Pueblo Reservoir – Very heavy rains and flooding along the Arkansas River and tributaries above the reservoir muddied the water, carried debris into the reservoir and dropped the temperature. Consequently, fishing at present is very poor. Favorable conditions might return in about a week. Before the flooding, fishing for most species had been fair. Fishing for catfish had been fairly good in late afternoon into evening.
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Quail Lake – Fishing for catchable-sized rainbows has been fair to good, depending on periodic stocking, but is slowing down with warming water temperatures. The lake also has a varierty of warm-water fish. Fishing for them has been slow to fair.
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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 – Shoreline fishing for rainbow trout has been fairly good on Power Bait. Fishing for lake trout has been slow. The inlet area, accessible from Rainbow Gulch, also has provided fair fishing for trout. The water level is much improved for 2006. Boat-ramp access is available with the following restrictions: No rental vans; Class A, B or C motorhomes or trailers over 22 feet are allowed across the dam; and no stopping or fishing is be permitted within 500 feet of the dam. With little pressure the past few years and periodic stocking, fishing should be good to excellent this year.
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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 – Fishing has been slow to fair. Fishermen have been catching rainbow, brown and cuttbow trout averaging 10 inches. Zeke’s Gold and Rainbow Power Bait have been the most productive. Recent rains have increased the flow in the St. Charles inlet to the lake. While stocked trout comprise much of the catch, the lake southwest of Pueblo 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 – The lake has been stocked, and fishing for catchable-sized trout has been good. Most fishermen had fish last weekend, and a few had their daily limit. Rainbow Power Bait was the most productive bait, but other types of Power Bait were working, also. Fly-bubble fishermen have enjoyed some success, especially in late afternoon. The lake also has a fairly good population of northern pike, which fishermen are encouraged to catch and keep. The upper end of the lake might be the likeliest location to find a northern.
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South Platte River (btwn Spinney and Elevenmile) – Flows from Spinney Mountain Dam have been reduced and have been averaging 100 cfs. The river has been fishing well, with many anglers having success landing trout of 12 inches and up. The river is open to catch-and-release fishing with artificial flies and lures. Micro caddis, regular caddis and Tricos have been the prevalent hatches. Effective flies have included orange and yellow egg patterns, No. 18-20 scuds, No. 16 San Juan worms, No. 20-22 Miracle Nymphs, No. 20-22 RS-2s, No. 20-22 Midge Pupae (Black, gray and red), No. 18-22 Copper Johns, No. 20-22 Parachute Adams, No. 20-24 Mercury Midges, Callibaetis, and Woolly Buggers.
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South Platte River, Deckers area – Extreme flooding occurred last weekend along the Horse Creek tributary, which enters the South Platte at Deckers. The extent of damage to the fishery in the river below has not been determined, but could be significant. Early in the week, both the tributary and the river below remained very discolored. Portions of the river above Deckers, including the Cheesman Canyon stretch, appear not to have been affected by rains in the area. Flooding along Horse Creek washed out portions of Colorado Highway 67 above Deckers, leaving the area inaccessible by that route.
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South Platte River, Elevenmile Canyon – With flows hovering consistently around 150 cfs and insects hatching throughout the day, how can it get any better? Fishing is excellent. Caddis and Tricos are active in the morning; caddis and PMDs in the afternoon. For the caddis, use No. 16-18 Elk Hair Caddis dries with a No. 16-18 Barr’s Graphic Caddis dropper. For Tricos, a standard spentwing spinner, No. 20-22, with a black RS2 dropper. The Elk Hair Caddis or a small attractor pattern (Royal Wulff/H&L Variant/Stimulator) are effective in the afternoon. Anglers are reminded the upper canyon carries an artificial-flies-and-lures restriction, and all fish must immediately be returned to the water alive. 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 2.7 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 at least 20 inches long. Trout action is good to excellent using No. 14-18 Scuds, 18-20 Pheasant Tails, 18-20 Hare’s Ears, Callibaetis nymphs, Copper Johns, brown moose-tail hair jigs, Woolly Buggers and various egg patterns. Rapalas and Kastmasters have also been working well. Pike action is heating up in shallow, weedy areas on tube jigs and Rapalas. Anglers are encouraged to harvest any pike they catch regardless of the size.
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Tarryall Reservoir – Fishing for trout has been fair to good, though success can vary widely among fishermen. While some have reported slow fishing, others have enjoyed good action for trout up to 16 inches on night crawlers and salmon eggs. The southeast portion of the lake, near the dam, has been a good location for some fishermen. Rooster Tail spinners also have taken an occasional brown trout and northern pike. Visitors must have a habitat stamp to use the state wildlife area.
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Trinidad Reservoir – Fishing remains good. The water level continues to drop but still covers more than 600 surface acres. Trout fishing is very good using baits and lures. Bass, walleyes and perch are good from shore and boats. Bass have been good with baits, lures and soft plastics. Walleyes are being caught on lures and worms or jigging. Though most are sublegal, one 32-inch walleye was checked last week. Perch also are good on lures or worms. A few catfish are being caught, mainly at night using chicken livers. One estimated at 10 pounds was caught last week. Not many crappie have been evident, but a few more wipers are showing up. Note DOW fishing regulations for special size limits on bass and walleyes at Trinidad Lake. Use caution when boating. As the lake drops, unmarked obstacles may appear.
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Turks Pond – Catfishing is fair. Fish are being caught on worms and dough baits. The lake level is very low, but should come up some with the pumping of well water this summer, after repairs to the well are made. Currently, the ramp is in poor condition and suitable only for hand-launch craft. The 55-acre lake has good populations of crappie, bluegills, wipers, saugeyes and catfish, and is stocked with catchable-sized trout in the spring and fall.
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Turquoise Lake – Fishing for trout remains slow, and mackinaw are moving to deeper water. Fishing from boats using lures of jigs tipped with sucker meat remains the likeliest technique. Most of the lake trout have been 18-20 inches. 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. A scenic mountain setting and ample U.S. Forest Service amenities make this a popular destination.
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Twin Lakes – Shoreline fishing for 8- to 15-inch rainbow trout has slowed, but some fish still are taken on Power Bait, night crawlers, Kastmasters and Montera Marvels, especially near the power plant inlet and the channel connecting the two lakes. Mackinaw have moved to deeper water, and the best action now is from boats. Jigs tipped with sucker meat and large spoons have been the most effective. White and chartreuse have been the best colors for tubes jigs. The lake-trout fishery, once known for trophy fish but diminished in the 1990s, appears to be on its way back. Water levels should be normal in 2006.
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Twin Lakes (Mt. Elbert) Forebay – Fishing for 8- to 15-inch rainbows has slowed somewhat but reamains faitly good on Power Bait and Kastmasters from the shore. The northwest shore, just west of the inlet pipe, and outlet areas have been best. Access is from the south shore; the north dam is closed to the public. A few 16- to 20-inch mackinaw also have been taken on Power Bait by fishermen primarily after rainbows, but most of the lake trout are deeper now. Carry-on boats are permitted on the forebay, but with dramatic 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 has been stocked with catchable-sized trout. Dark-colored flies and black Pistol Petes have produced some fairly good action.
Fishermen may use only artificial flies and lures.
Boats with motors are prohibited.
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| Southwest Region |
Animas River – The water has been low and clear, but recent rains may temporarily have discolored the river. When clear, the fishing has been very good. Spin casters can use small spinners and spoons. Fly casters should be prepared to fish on top as well as below the surface. Grasshoppers are coming out, so use a hopper-dropper combination with a chartreuse Copper John, Prince nymph or caddis larvae imitations. Sculpin-imitation streamers and Woolly Buggers also are working well. Caddis, mayfly and Stimulator patterns are suggested for the dry-fly fishermen.
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Beaver Creek Reservoir – Fishing has been fairly good for 12- to 18-inch rainbow and brown trout using Power Bait, spinners and streamer flies. Some kokanee are being caught by boat anglers trolling lures.
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Big Meadows Reservoir – Fishing for rainbow and brook trout remains good to very good using Power Bait, worms and spinners.
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Blue Mesa Reservoir – Kokanee salmon fishing is great in Iola Basin and around the dam, trolling brightly colored spinners and spoons from 25-40 feet. Perch are being found in most shallow-water bays around the lake and can be caught using light jigs tipped with mealworms. Shore trout fishing is best using Power Bait and worms near the bottom.
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Conejos County (high country lakes) – Conejos County high lakes are open and accessible. Fishing should be good to excellent at Red, Trail, Green, and Blue lakes.
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Conejos County (small streams) – Conejos County has a large variety of small streams and creeks for the angler to explore. Streams hold a variety of trout, including brook, cutthroat and brown. Flows are good, and fishing has been fair to good on the Rio de los Pinos, La Jara Creek and Elk Creek.
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Conejos River – Recent rains have raised and discolored the river, but conditions should improve soon. Fishing had been excellent for brown trout and fair for rainbows on a variety of dry flies and nymphs such as BWO, Duns, Adams, and green Copper Johns. The Conejos has been seeing several insect hatches, and trout have been actively feeding. 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 level is low, the water temperature is high and fishing is poor.
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Dolores River (upper) – The river has been running low and clear at midsummer levels, though rains might temporarily raise and discolor the water. It’s a good time to fish with spinners. Fly casters should be ready with attractor patterns. Hooper-dropper combinations also are working well.
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East River – Fishing on the East this week has been very good, except during periods of heavy rain. Flows have been as low as 375 cfs and as high as 436 cfs this week at Almont. Streamer patterns have been working well in olive, black, brown and vanilla, sizes 4-8. Green drakes, size 10-12, and PMDs and BWOs, 14-18, are the predominant mayfly hatches. Yellow Sally stoneflies, 14-18, and larger orange stones, 10-14, are still working well. 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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Echo Canyon Reservoir – Fishing for trout, bass and perch has been excellent on most types of bait and lures. The lake was stocked last month with 10-inch catchable rainbows. No limit applies to perch. No boat wake is allowed on the reservoir.
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Gunnison River (below Crystal Dam) – Flow in the canyon below Crystal Dam has been bumped up to 1,400 cfs. Some repair work is going on. Lots of rain has fallen in the area this week. Clarity has been affected on all local waters, as well. Otherwise, fishing has been good. On top, try caddis and PMDs. If nymphing, Halfbacks, Befus Wired Stones, Scuds, Caddis Pupa, Caddis Larva and Elk-hair Caddis, PMDs, RS-2s, Flashback Hare’s Ears, Pheasant Tails, Flashback Pheasant Tails and an assortment of different-colored midges have been the go-to patterns. For current conditions call Cimarron Creek Flyshop at 970-249-0408.
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Gunnison River (through the canyon) – The flow has increased to 1,460 cfs and the water is off-color. Some flash flooding has occurred in the Gorge and fishing is not good. The water should clear in a couple days, and good fishing will be back soon. 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) – Good rainfalls last week have brought Gunnison River flows back up to between 1,000 and 1,400 cfs. On rainy days, try black and olive streamers, size 4-8, or San Juan worms. Nymphing has been good with larger patterns – Pheasant Tails, Prince Nymphs, Zug Bugs, Copper Johns and stoneflies, all sizes 8-14. Midday hatches of PMDs, BWOs, caddis, stoneflies and a few drakes can be expected on most days. Call the Almont Anglers at (970) 641-7404 or stop in.
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Jackson Gulch Reservoir – The inlet is running and the lake level reached capacity, but the water is dropping. Fishing in the inlet channel can be very productive for rainbow trout. Lake fishing has been good, with most people catching their daily limits. Try inline spinners (silver seems to be a favorite color) 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 – La Jara Creek is fishing well for brown trout and flows are good. Fishing has been good on worms, spinners and artificial flies. Water levels are lowering and the water is clear. Trout spook easily, so anglers should take a stealthy approach when fishing La Jara Creek.
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La Jara Reservoir – The reservoir is open. La Jara Reservoir’s water level is fair this year, with fluctuations because of drought conditions. The trout fishery at the reservoir continues to grow. A gill-net survey on June 29 found several 12- to 16-inch brook trout and several 12- to 15-inch splake in the reservoir. Fishing pressure has been light. Fishing has been fair to good. The reservoir is stocked with Rio Grande cutthroat trout, brook trout and splake.
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Los Pinos River – The river above Vallecito Reservoir is accessible. Caddis and mayfly hatches have started. Attractor patterns work well. This is also a good time for spin-casting. Access to the river below the reservoir is restricted because of private property.
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McPhee Reservoir – Fishing for trout has been very good on almost any type of lure and bait. Bass fishing is slow, but plastic worms and surface lures are taking some fish. Fishermen are reminded of the new slot limit in effect for largemouth and smallmouth bass: All bass 10-15 inches in length must immediately be returned to the water alive. The standard limit applies to bass less than 10 or greater than 15 inches. Anglers are starting to troll for kokanee.
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Mountain Home Reservoir – The water level is low. The north boat ramp is inaccessible, but the south boat ramp is operative. Fishing reportedly has been very good for rainbow trout to 20 inches on Power Bait and salmon eggs, and by trolling lures.
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Navajo Reservoir – The lake is nearly full, with the water temperature at 70 degrees. On the Colorado side of the reservoir, the crappie have slowed down, but the pike and bass picked up and are biting on grubs and crankbaits. Catfish are fair, biting on worms and dough baits. The water has gotten warmer. Happy Fourth of July Fishing!
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Piedra River – The stream had been running low and clear, and insect hatches were on, but rains might have raised the flow and discolored the water. When it clears, be ready with stonefly, caddis and mayfly patterns. Fly casters should be ready to try a variety of flies – caddis, grasshoppers, Stimulators, Pheasant Tail and bead-head Prince nymphs in hopper-dropper combinations. Spinners and small spoons also are taking fish.
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Platoro Reservoir – The road to the reservoir is open and accessible. The fishing has been excellent for rainbow trout. Anglers have also been catching browns, splake, and kokanee salmon. The water level is fair 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.
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Ridgway Fishing Ponds – The fishing is good. Worms, salmon eggs, gold-and-black-bladed spinners and large streamer flies (attractor flies) are doing well in the ponds. 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 4 trout may be kept there.
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Ridgway Reservoir – The reservoir was full and now is receding. The fishing is fair to good at the inlet, at the seam of clear and cloudy water. Try using green sparkle Power Bait and 1/4-ounce rainbow Kastmasters. Boaters continue to catch some rainbow and brown trout trolling night crawlers behind a No. 3 Mepps spinner. Kastmasters and Rooster Tails are working, as well. 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 – Flows in high-country streams have dropped to normal and below-normal levels. Trout fishing is reported as good to excellent on most streams using flies and spinners. Good action was reported on the following artificial flies: Adams, Humpies, Elk-hair Caddis and small Stimulators.
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Rio Grande River – Recent rains have raised and discolored the river, but the conditions should be improving soon. The increased flows have made float fishing possible again. Before the rain, the river had been fishing very well. Most of the large-insect hatches are over, but fishing with terrestrial patterns, attractors and nymphs remains quite good. Scattered smaller mayflies, midges and summer caddis also still can be found on the water.
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Road Canyon Reservoir – Fishing remains good for 12- to 16-inch rainbow trout and a few brook trout. Boat anglers do best trolling Rooster Tail spinners, while bank anglers have reported some good success using Power Bait of various colors.
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San Juan high-country lakes, streams – Most high lakes are fishing well. Those willing to make the hike will be rewarded with fine fishing. Use attractor patterns – Royal Wulffs and Irresistibles. Streamer patterns that imitate bait fish also are a good choice Regular bait – salmon eggs, Power Bait and night crawlers – also will work.
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San Juan River – Early in the week, rains had raised and discolored the river. It should drop and clear quickly with the return of dry weather. Before the rain, fishing was good. Recent stocking has put nice-sized rainbows and cuttbows in the river near Pagosa Springs. Small spoons and spinners are working well. Fly casters should try hopper-dropper combinations, caddis and Stimulators. Also, use bead-head Prince, Pheasant Tail and Copper John nymphs below the surface.
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Sanchez Reservoir – Fishing for walleyes, northern pike and yellow perch has been slow for many fishermen, but fairly good for some. Plastic jigs, Road Runners and crankbaits have worked fairly well for catching walleyes and pike. Some northerns also have been taken on buzzbaits and spinnerbaits fished among the weeds.
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Taylor Reservoir – Most of the lake trout are in 80 feet of water, but some smaller mackinaw are being caught on Pop Geer and night crawlers in about 25 feet. Trolling also has produced an abundance of well-conditioned rainbow trout and a few kokanee salmon. Northern pike remain active, but the bite has slowed somewhat, possibly because of recent stocking. Try erratically moving crankbaits in 10 feet of water, or frozen sucker meat in the shallows. Recent rains have filled the reservoir, and the fire ban has been lifted. Call the Taylor Park Marina, (970) 641-2922 for updates.
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Taylor River – Look for heavier hatches of green drakes midday in the middle to upper sections of the Taylor, as far as the Dorchester Campground. The creeks above Taylor Dam have seen little pressure and are fishing very well. Overcast days have been prolonging good hatches of PMDs, caddis, stoneflies, yellow Sallies and green drakes. Flows out of the dam are steady at 295 cfs, and between 400 and 460 cfs at Almont, depending on rainfall. Call Almont Anglers at (970) 641-7404 or stop by for the latest reports.
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Trujillo Meadows Reservoir – The road to Trujillo Meadows is open and fishing is excellent. This is the best trout-fishing lake in the Conejos River area. 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 into July. The best brown-trout fishing is in the early mornings and evenings using Rapalas, Kastmasters and streamer flies. The trout also have been taking dry flies during the mayfly hatch.
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Tucker Ponds – Anglers have reported fair to good action catching 10- to 12-inch stocked rainbow trout. Power Bait and salmon eggs have been the most productive.
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Uncompahgre River in Ridgway Park – The flow is holding at 480 cfs, and a lot of debris still is in the water. Fishing really is pretty good. Try using Prince Nymphs, small emergers and large streamers (Gray Ghost or Hornburg). Nymphing works best with small (18- 22) emergers and a strike indicator. Good luck.
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Vallecito Reservoir – Fishing for trout is slow, but the action for northern pike has been good. A 19-pounder recently was caught. Anglers are using large Rapalas and water dogs for the northerns. Pike like to hang out along the mud line not far from the bank of the lake near drop-offs. Anglers are starting to troll for kokanee using Cow Bells, and the action is improving.
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Williams Creek Reservoir – Fishing for trout has been steady on bait, spinners and flies. The best spots are off the dam and near the inlet. In the creek below the dam, fishing is good for brooks, browns and rainbows. Use Woolly Buggers and spinners.
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