THE TIME IS NOW

Great conditions for fishing

This year’s river conditions are unique. Reports from the Arkansas, the Colorado, the White river and even the big Thompson have had a consistent theme; runoff has peaked, the flows are low and clear, and you need to be flyfishing now. In the past several high water years, flows would be high, muddy and hard to fish in mid-June. Most avid fly anglers would be concentrating on still water and select tailwaters. This year the best fishing of the summer might be right now.

Chris Steinbeck, from the Blue Quill Angler, echoed the reports on the previously mentioned waters and added the South Platte to the list. While much of the South Platt River from South Park to the Denver metro area is tail waters, the flows are still exceptionally low right now. He said the fishing is currently fantastic, with dry flies especially big attracters. The caddis activity is great and they are still seeing considerable stone fly action. Steinbeck also added that the flow in the Blue River by Silverthorne was higher than some of the other waters across the state but fishing well with streamers.

Steinbeck’s greater concern was for later this summer. If we don’t see substantial precipitation, the flows in many of the state’s popular rivers could get very low and warm. Water approaching 70 degrees can put a lot of stress on many species of trout. This can make successful release difficult and can be harmful, even fatal to the fish.

Steinbeck’s advice is to fish the rivers now and look to the still waters later in the summer. Even now Spinney Mountain Reservoir, Antero, and the north Park lakes are fishing extremely well.

One of the more popular sections of the South Platte is the world-class Deckers area with outstanding opportunity to catch memorable fish. Located about an hour outside Denver, this area of the South Platte River de- fines the legendary fly fishing that Colorado is known for across the world. While trout feed throughout the year in this rich fishery, slow runs, riffles and deep pockets will put your angling skills to the test. This is an ideal area with sensational scenery to fly fish on foot, and access is easy so you won’t have to worry about hiking in. However, the opportunity for exceptional fishing is extensive throughout this area, so don’t be afraid to strike out and explore. While you’re here, don’t forget to enjoy the scenery. There’s a good chance that you’ll spot eagles, mule deer, and other Colorado wildlife.

We’ve been reporting all month that if you haven’t been out river fishing, you have already missed some of the best fishing of the year. Get out now while conditions are optimal. Don’t miss any more. It may not last.