In order to rebalance the fishery at Blue Mesa Reservoir, the Colorado Division of Wildlife is developing plans to remove small- to medium-sized lake trout from the reservoir west of Gunnison starting late this fall.
Blue Mesa Reservoir is a productive fishery and is the primary body of water for kokanee salmon production in the state. Lake trout, which are efficient predators, are consuming the kokanee and causing a significant drop in the population of the freshwater salmon. Rainbow trout survival is also declining due to lake trout predation. At the same time, the size of lake trout is declining because competition for food among the fish is increasing.
“This is a predator-prey relationship issue,” said Dan Brauch, an aquatic biologist for the DOW in Gunnison. “At Blue Mesa Reservoir, the predators are overwhelming the prey; the relationship is out of balance.”
The situation is also causing concerns at 26 other lakes and reservoirs in Colorado where the DOW stocks kokanee salmon.
Street extravaganza.
Colorado Skies Outfitters of Parker will participate in a fly-fishing extravaganza today as part of the Parker Farmer’s Market on Main Street from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The event will feature casting instruction and simulated float fishing featuring the South Platte, Eagle and Colorado rivers.
Junior rangers.
Colorado State Parks will offer a junior rangers program on Fridays in July. The 10 a.m.-2 p.m. event is open to kids ages 8-11. To enroll, phone Theresa Odello, 303-690-1166.
Women only.
Blue Quill Angler in Evergreen will offer a July 11 instruction session for women at 1532 Bergen Parkway in Evergreen. Men aren’t allowed for the instructional class that also features the latest gear. Hours are 5-8:30 p.m. Phone 303-674-4700.
Kids outdoors.
The Colorado Division of Wildlife will host two programs to teach kids ages 8-12 about outdoor skills.
The first is July 14-16 in Lamar, the second July 21-23 in Limon, both 9 a.m.-noon. Registration is limited to 20. Phone 719-336-6608.
Charlie Meyers is on vacation
