WHEAT RIDGE, Colo.–A 14-year-old Golden resident became the newest member of Colorado’s angling elite after landing a 51-pound grass carp while fishing at Prospect Park Lake on June 4.  The mammoth carp, caught by Cody Moreland, set a new species state record and ranks as the heaviest fish ever caught in Colorado. 

Moreland, who regularly fishes the small Jefferson County lake, caught the record-setting fish using a Rapala Dives-To lure, 14-pound line and a Zebco rod and reel. Moreland says he was initially targeting bass but changed tactics after seeing large carp within casting distance of his lure. 

"When I got to the lake, I could see carp ‘tailing’ quite a ways out from the shore," said Moreland.  "I knew they would probably hit the Rapala because I’ve caught smaller carp using that same technique before."

At approximately 3 p.m., Moreland cast his line toward the feeding carp and started retrieving the minnow-like imitation. Within seconds, the monster fish grabbed the lure and then charged in the opposite direction, peeling monofilament line from the Zebco reel. 

"This was my first cast of the day but I could tell right away that this was a huge fish," said Moreland.  "I had to make sure my drag was set just right to keep from losing it."

After 25 minutes of give-and-take, Moreland landed the enormous fish in front of wide-eyed spectators who had gathered to watch the nearly half-hour-long battle.  Moreland’s grandfather also witnessed his grandson’s stunning achievement.    

"Everyone was in awe when I finally landed the fish," said Moreland.  "Even my grandfather was shocked.  He just kept saying, ‘Wow, that is the biggest fish I’ve ever seen.’"

Moreland’s carp measured 42 inches in length, 28 inches in girth and weighed exactly 51 pounds–nearly 7 pounds heavier than the previous 44.8-pound  record, caught in 2006 at a private Lake in Larimer County.   

In addition to breaking the state record for grass carp, Moreland’s catch is the heaviest fish ever recorded in Colorado, surpassing a 50.35-pound lake trout caught by Donald Walker at Blue Mesa Reservoir in 2007. 

"This carp is the heaviest fish that we have ever entered into our record books," said Paul Winkle, Colorado Division of Wildlife fisheries biologist.  "Grass carp can grow to enormous sizes, so it’s not surprising that this species has now taken the top spot in this category."

Widely considered a "rough fish" by most anglers, carp are not members of Colorado’s sport-fish group.  However, due to their hard-fighting nature and tendency to grow to enormous sizes in neighborhood lakes and ponds, carp deserve a spot in Colorado’s record books.

"Grass carp and the more plentiful common carp provide tremendous angling opportunities for Front Range and metro area anglers," said Mark Cousins, DOW hunter education coordinator.  "Anglers who have discovered the thrill of carp fishing have coined carp the fresh-water bonefish because of the tremendous battle they pose on a fly rod or light spinning gear."

The DOW stocks grass carp selectively in small lakes and ponds across eastern Colorado, using the herbivorous fish as a biological control to manage overabundant aquatic weeds and vegetation.  The grass carp are sterilized in hatcheries before stocking, so they won’t reproduce.  According to stocking records, the DOW planted grass carp in Prospect Lake Park in 1988, 1992 and 1993.

Moreland, who has aspirations of becoming a professional angler someday, hopes this is just the first of many record-breaking fish and angling accolades.  

"I started fishing when I was 3 or 4 years old and have been hooked ever since," said Moreland.  "It’s my favorite thing to do and I hope to become a professional fisherman someday. My goal is to keep improving my fishing skills."

The DOW added the record carp to the Colorado State Fishing Records and issued Moreland a Master Angler award certificate and patch, further recognizing his outstanding achievement.

"We want to congratulate Cody Moreland for his exceptional fish," said Winkle.  "It’s always exciting when a record is broken and we get to enter a new name into the record books. I think it’s even more rewarding when a youth breaks the record and can share the moment with their family."

The DOW tracks fish records by weight in 43 different species categories. Potential record holders must have a valid Colorado fishing license or be under the age of 16. The fish in question must be weighed on a state-certified scale, and a weight receipt must be signed by a person who witnessed the weighing. The fish, before being frozen, gutted or altered in any way, must be examined and identified by a DOW biologist or wildlife manager before an application is submitted.  

To view Colorado’s Fishing Records, visit the DOW website at: http://wildlife.state.co.us/Fishing/AwardsRecords/

To view photos of Cody Moreland and his state-record grass carp, click here: http://wildlife.state.co.us/apps/ImageDB/ImageDownload.aspx?ImageId=25836&ImageSize=Print&ImageType=jpg

To take advantage of Colorado’s outstanding fishing opportunities, purchase your license today!   Colorado fishing licenses are available at statewide Division of Wildlife offices and license agents.  Licenses may also be purchased by phone (1-800-244-5613) or online at: http://wildlife.state.co.us/ShopDOW/AppsAndLicenses/  

For more information about Division of Wildlife go to: http://wildlife.state.co.us.

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Colorado Division of Wildlife
SOUTHWEST REGION
AQUATIC SECTION
 
 
2010 Fishing Forecast
 
 
Josh Nehring, Aquatic Biologist – Monte Vista
Dan Brauch, Aquatic Biologist – Gunnison
Dan Kowalski, Aquatic Biologist – Montrose
Jim White, Aquatic Biologist – Durango
 
 
John Alves Senior Aquatic Biologist
 
 This report is based on the best information that we have available as of June 2010.  Water levels and streams flows, conditions that are not usually under DOW control, can change significantly and can have some affects on access, stocking and your fishing.  Surface acreages listed are for full lake volume unless otherwise noted.  For the most up-to-date information, readers are encouraged to visit the DOW Web Site at http://www.wildlife.state.cous and go to Fishing / Reports / Statewide Conditions or Stocking Report.  You can also call the DOW Biologist or your local DOW Area Office for more detailed information.   A valid Colorado fishing license is required to fish in Colorado.

Rio Grande Basin
Josh Nehring Monte Vista (719-587-6908) or josh.nehring@state.co.us
 
 
Beaver Creek Reservoir (114 ac)
This popular fishing destination is located 8 miles southwest of South Fork. Due to dam safety inspections the water level in the reservoir will likely remain approximately 20 below the spillway.  This may limit access to launch boats from the ramp.  All fish stocking has been canceled for 2010 and those fish have been reallocated to other resources in the area.  Fishing for brown trout (12 16 inch) is best at ice out through June and in the fall.  Rainbow trout fishing should be good to excellent throughout the summer.  Traditional trout fishing techniques usually work well, including power bait, worms and lures (Kastmasters, Panther Martins and Rapalas).  Fly fishing from boats and float tubes is popular using streamers and dry flies).  Kokanee salmon fishing is best from boats trolling lures at depths from 12 to 20 feet in early summer.  Snagging is permitted October 1 through December 31.
 
Big Meadows Reservoir (114 ac) 
This popular fishing destination is located at the headwaters of the South Fork Rio Grande, 13 miles west of South Fork.  Mountain scenery is outstanding at this high country reservoir. Water level should be above normal throughout the summer.  Stocking level will be similar to past years with 23,500 catchable rainbow trout (10 inch) stocked from May through August.  Fishing should be good to excellent throughout the summer for rainbow trout (10-13 inch) and brook trout (10-12 inch).  Traditional trout fishing techniques usually work well, including power bait, worms and lures (Kastmasters, Panther Martins and Rapalas).  Fly fishing in the evening should produce good results for brook trout as well as rainbow trout.
 
Mountain Home Reservoir (631 ac)
Mountain Home Reservoir is a popular fishing destination located 4 miles southeast of Fort Garland.  Outstanding views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains may be observed from this reservoir.  The reservoir is expected to fill this summer due to the above normal snowpack.  However, fluctuations in water level are expected throughout the summer due to irrigation water releases. Stocking level will be similar to past years with 22,000 catchable rainbow trout stocked from May through June.  Fishing for rainbow trout from bank or boat should be good to excellent throughout the summer with best action in June.  Traditional trout fishing techniques usually work well, including power bait, worms and lures (Kastmasters, Panther Martins and Rapalas).
 
Road Canyon Reservoir (140 ac)
This popular fishery is located in the upper Rio Grande basin 29 miles west of Creede.  This reservoir experienced a partial winter kill; however brook trout were present after ice off.  The reservoir will be stocked with catchable trout throughout the summer.  Water level should be normal with minimal fluctuations later in the summer.  The trout fishery consists of rainbow trout (10-18 inch) and brook trout 12 16 inch).  Good to excellent fishing for rainbow trout and brook trout using traditional trout fishing techniques should be expected from May to July.  Trolling lures or casting artificial flies from boats and float tubes work well especially early in the season.  Algae blooms and aquatic vegetation growth may impact bank fishing in late summer.
 
 
Sanchez Reservoir (4571 ac)
This popular coolwater fishery is located 8 miles south of San Luis.  Outstanding views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains may be observed from this reservoir.  The lake is expected to be full at the start of the season with fluctuations later in the summer due to irrigation water releases.  Boat ramp access will vary depending on lake level.  The boat ramp will only be open during daylight hours and mandatory boat inspections will be taking place during that time for aquatic invasive species.  Anglers should expect fair to good fishing for walleye (up to 5 lb), northern pike and channel catfish.  Yellow perch are making a gradual comeback, but abundance continues to be low.  Best time to fish is from ice out in May through July.
 
Smith Reservoir (700 ac)
This highly productive trout fishery is located 4 miles south of Blanca.  In the fall of 2009 the lake was completely drained by the irrigation company to inspect and repair outlet gates.  The reservoir is now full of water and has been restocked with catchable trout and some trout up to 19 inches.  Good to excellent action for rainbow trout can be expected especially after ice out in May and June.  Traditional trout fishing techniques usually work well, including power bait, worms and lures (Kastmasters, Panther Martins and Rapalas).  A boat ramp is located near the spillway on the west side of the reservoir.
 
Conejos River
Flows are expected to be about normal this summer.  Fluctuations should be expected due to irrigation water releases from Platoro Reservoir.  Angling for brown trout should be good to excellent from Mogote to Platoro.  Best fishing areas include the Fly Water from Aspen Glade Campground upstream to Menkhaven Resort, the Pinnacles Section and the meadow below Platoro Reservoir.  Best fishing time is before snowmelt and after runoff in late June through July.  Mayfly, stonefly and caddis fly hatches occur throughout the summer providing outstanding fly fishing opportunities for quality size brown trout.
 
Rio Grande
Flows are expected to be about normal this summer.  Brown and rainbow trout fishing should be good to excellent from Del Norte to Rio Grande Reservoir.  Inventory results from 2007 showed improved trout biomass and abundance of quality size trout throughout the river.  Best time to fish is after snowmelt in mid June through July especially during caddis fly, stonefly and Green Drake mayfly hatches.  Wade fishing is available on public land and DOW leases (contact Monte Vista Service Center for more information about leases).  Multiple boat/raft launch sites on public land provide float fishing opportunities to fish long stretches of the river.
 

Upper Gunnison River Basin
Dan Brauch Gunnison (970-641-7070) or dan.brauch@state.co.us
 
Blue Mesa Reservoir (9000 ac)
Blue Mesa Reservoir continues to be the place to go for kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, wild brown trout, and
trophy lake trout. Kokanee continue to be the most commonly caught fish in Blue Mesa, providing 56% of the
summer catch in 2009. Kokanee populations within the reservoir have been on the decline in recent years and it
is expected that this trend will continue into 2010. Kokanee opportunity is best in June and July, prior to the
adult kokanee migration out of the reservoir into the Gunnison and East rivers. The bulk of the reservoirs
kokanee are stocked each year from Roaring Judy Hatchery, but some kokanee are stocked directly into the lake
at the windsurfing area at East Elk Creek. This area is a good place to look for spawning kokanee that remain in
the lake late in the season. Blue Mesa Reservoir is open to snagging for kokanee after November 1st.  Rainbow trout fishing should be improved in 2010, as the rainbow trout stocking schedule has shifted to a catchable size plant.  Rainbow trout are the predominant species caught by shore and ice fishing anglers, although brown
trout are also caught in good numbers. Catch of brown trout up to 20 inches in length should be excellent in
2010, with a few lunkers coming in near the 30 mark. For anglers targeting the big fish in the lake, Blue
Mesa should continue to provide good trophy lake trout opportunity in 2010.  Anglers are encouraged to harvest lake trout under 30 inches in length due to an over abundance of fish of this size and their excessive predation upon kokanee.  To reduce this predation, active removal of lake trout under 30 inches was started by CDOW staff in 2009 to try to reduce predation upon kokanee.  Ongoing monitoring will assess the need for continued removal of lake trout and the effect of CDOW removal and angler harvest upon the lake trout population and kokanee recovery.
 
Gunnison RiverAlmont to Blue Mesa Reservoir
The Upper Gunnison River provides excellent trout fishing opportunity for brown, rainbow and cutthroat trout
on this 18 mile reach. Kokanee angling is also popular during their fall migration, which begins in earnest in late
August.  Public access is generally good for bank, wade or float fishing. Wild brown trout have experienced
excellent survival and growth in recent years. Rainbow trout fishing has improved in recent years and should be good in 2010.  Rainbow trout in this reach are a mix of fingerling stocked wild-strain rainbow trout and privately stocked catchable rainbow trout. Whirling disease resistant rainbows were stocked into this section of the Gunnison River in 2008 and 2009, and may soon result in re-establishment of rainbow trout natural reproduction. The upper section of the Gunnison River near the town of Almont provides excellent quality trout angling opportunities with an estimated 34 fish 14 inches or larger per acre documented in fall 2008 fisheries inventory.
 
Lake San Cristobal (346 ac)
Lake San Cristobal provides an excellent opportunity for anglers in the very picturesque Lake Fork of the Gunnison headwaters.  This is Colorados second largest natural lake and in 2010 should provide good opportunity for anglers to catch rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout and lake trout.  Anglers may also catch an occasional naturally reproduced kokanee salmon.
 
Taylor Reservoir (2009 ac)
Taylor Reservoir continues to be a destination fishery for trophy lake trout, catchable rainbow trout, and northern pike. Action is usually best for lake trout just after ice off, while pike angling is most active a month or so later, in early to mid June.  Most shore angling is supported by regular stocking of catchable rainbow trout, but opportunities are often excellent at ice off for hold-over rainbows from the previous years fish plants.
 
Taylor River
The Taylor River continues to support a quality trout fishery, with overall biomass and density most often greatly exceeding Gold Medal standards.  The Taylor Tailrace in particular continues to support a fishery that is rarely exceeded in the number of trophy sized trout with an estimated 59 fish over 14 inches per acre.  Public access in this reach is just .4 mile, but availability of a nutrition-rich mysis shrimp food source continues to support trophy-proportion trout with fish over 30 inches and 20 pounds not uncommon.  The Taylor River below the tailrace to the town of Almont includes nearly 6 miles of public water and provides excellent angling opportunity for trout.  2006 fish population estimates showed continued good brown trout recruitment in this section of the Taylor River.  Total biomass and the density of quality sized trout were estimated to be higher in 2006 than most previous years surveyed.  It is expected that optimized winter flow fluctuations and good summer flow patterns have benefited the Taylor River fishery in recent years.  Releases from Taylor Park Reservoir should result in wade-able flows for most of the summer due to a smaller than normal projected spring runoff and less than average storage levels in 2010.

 
Lower Gunnison, Uncompahgre, and San Miguel River Basins
Dan Kowalski Montrose (970-252-6017) dan.kowalski@state.co.us
 
Gunnison River Below Crystal Reservoir
The Gunnison River in the Black Canyon and Gunnison Gorge is designated Gold Medal and is managed as a category 406 special regulations stream.  New fishing regulations were put in place in 2007 removing the slot limit on brown trout and extending the Gold Medal reach downstream 4 miles below the North Fork confluence.  The current regulations, extending from Crystal Dam downstream to the Relief Ditch diversion, are fishing by artificial flies and lures only, catch and release on rainbow trout, and a bag limit of 4 brown trout of any size.  Anglers are encouraged to take advantage of the new regulation and harvest small brown trout from the Gunnison.  Fishing in the Gunnison River should continue to be excellent in 2010.  The high flows in the spring of 2009 negatively affected trout populations, and overall biomass was down slightly.  Brown trout biomass was down 11.3% from 2008 and 31.4% from 2007, while fish density (fish per mile) was down 16.5% from 2008 and 31.1% from 2007.  The decrease in fish density was due to lower numbers of all sizes of fish caused by the weaker trout year classes the last two years due to high spring flows during fry emergence.  Numbers of larger fish (greater than 14 inches) were also down an estimated 38% from 2008.  The Gorge still supports an excellent trout fishery of an estimated 326 lbs per acre of trout over six inches (this is over five times the Gold Medal biomass standard).  One of the most significant observations this year was documenting 4 age classes of wild rainbow trout.  The whirling disease resistant rainbow trout introduced by the DOW have reproduced successfully in 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009.  Rainbow biomass has not yet increased significantly in the Gorge, but successful wild reproduction is an important first step in rebuilding the wild rainbow population of the Gunnison.  Stocking of whirling disease resistant rainbows has significantly increased rainbow numbers in other areas of the river including East Portal and from the Smith Fork to North Fork.
 
Uncompahgre River Below Ridgway Reservoir
The Uncompahgre River from Ridgway Reservoir to the town on Montrose is managed both as a category 406 special regulation stream and category 507 sportfish intensive coldwater stream.  Fishing should be good for rainbows, browns, and cutthroats in Ridgway State Park and good for brown trout lower in the river with a few large rainbows being caught as well.  Winter releases from Ridgway Reservoir were again too low for good over winter survival and the quality of the fishery below the dam has declined this spring.  Special regulations apply in Ridgway State Park, fishing by artificial flies and lures only, catch and release.  A large habitat improvement project was completed in Baldrige Park in Montrose and the one mile reach upstream from Main St. Bridge has fished well.
 
San Miguel River
The San Miguel River is managed as both a category 302 wild trout stream and a 507 sportfish intensive coldwater stream.  Fishing should be good for rainbows below Placerville, fair for browns and rainbows between Placerville and the South Fork, and good for small brook trout near Telluride.  Biomass of brown trout in the South Fork and upper San Miguel has increased the last several years.  Better winter conditions the last 3 years have benefitted the trout population of the South Fork.
 
Ridgway Reservoir (1030 ac)
Located 20 miles south of Montrose, Ridgway Reservoir is managed as a category 505 sportfish intensive coldwater lake.  In 2010, this reservoir should provide good fishing for 10 to 14 inch rainbow trout and the opportunity for trophy brown trout in the 10 to 20 lbs. range.  Splake were introduced into the reservoir in 2007 but wont make a noticeable part of the catch for a few more years.  Fishing should be fair to good for smaller kokanee salmon (9 to 12 inch) in deep water in the summer and the inlet areas in the fall.
 
 
 
Miramonte Reservoir (405 ac)
Located 20 miles south of Norwood, Miramonte Reservoir is managed as a category 403 sportfish optimum coldwater lake.  In 2010 it should provide good fishing for rainbow trout in the 14 to 16 inch range along with the opportunity to catch a few brown trout up to 20 inches.  After several years of low recruitment of rainbow fingerlings, numbers are back up and fishing should be good for the next several years.  Overall trout numbers were higher in 2010 than we have seen in several years.
 
Confluence Lake (18 ac)
Located in the town of Delta, Confluence Lake is managed as a category 502 sport sportfish intensive coldwater lake.  This lake will no longer be managed as warmwater sport fishery due to a change in the water management by the city of Delta.  Fishing should be good for catchable sized rainbow trout in the spring and fall with fair fishing for bass, sunfish, and crappie in the spring and summer.
 
Silverjack Reservoir (318 ac)
Located 20 miles south of Cimarron, Silverjack Reservoir is managed as a category 403 sportfish optimum coldwater lake.  In 2010 fishing should be good for 9 to 14 inch rainbow trout and cutbows.
 
Crawford Reservoir (392 ac)
Located 1 mile south of the town of Crawford, this reservoir is managed as a category 602 warmwater mixed species lake.  Fishing this year at Crawford should be good for pike and fair for rainbows and smaller black crappie.  Fishing is expected to be slow for largemouth bass and poor for yellow perch with very few quality sized fish being present.  Fishing for larger than average catfish is expected to remain good.   Fishing should be good for northern pike in the spring with some trophy sized fish in the 15 to 25 lbs. range possible.  The DOW has tagged many pike at Crawford as part of a population monitoring effort, if any pike are caught with a yellow plastic tag near the dorsal fin, please report it with the phone number on the tag or leave the information at the State Park office if the fish is harvested.
 
Island Lake (177 ac)
Located 15 miles north of Cedaredge, Island Lake is managed as a category 504 sportfish intensive coldwater lake.  This reservoir should provide good fishing for 10 to 14 inch rainbow trout as well as the opportunity for good upcoming year classes of splake.  Four strong year classes of splake are present; the largest should be in the 18 to 24 inch range in 2010.
 
Eggleston Lake (164 ac)
Located 15 miles north of Cedaredge, Island Lake is managed as a category 504 sportfish intensive coldwater lake.  Fishing in 2009 should be average to poor for 10 to 14 inch rainbow trout and some smaller splake.  This reservoir is dominated by white suckers and the trout fishery has declined.  The reservoir will most likely be reclaimed in the future to remove white suckers and renew the trout fishery.  Expect the quality of this fishery to improve markedly in the future.
 
Youngs Creek Reservoir #3 (23 ac)
Located 15 miles north of Cedaredge, Youngs Creek #3 is managed as a category 402 sportfish optimum coldwater lake.  Fishing should be fair to good for cutthroat trout.  Special regulations apply; artificial flies and lures only, catch and release on cutthroat trout.
 
Youngs Creek Reservoir #1&2 (52 ac)
Located 15 miles north of Cedaredge, Youngs Creek #1&2 is managed as a category 402 sportfish optimum coldwater lake.  Fishing is expected to be poor due to frequent draw downs.  The reservoir has not held enough
water recently to support a fishery.  Special regulations apply; artificial flies and lures only, catch and release on cutthroat trout.
 
Granby Reservoirs (various sizes)
Located 15 miles north of Cedaredge, the Granby Reservoirs are managed as category 401 coldwater recreation lakes.  Fishing should be good to excellent for cutthroat trout.  Big Battlement Reservoir should provide good fishing for wild brook trout.
 
 

San Juan River Basin
Jim White Durango (970-375-6712) or j.white@state.co.us
 
 
Animas River
The Animas River runs through Durango and is designated as one of Colorados Gold Medal fisheries.  River flows are expected to be below average this summer.  The best fishing times are just prior to runoff and post runoff in late-June through October.  The Animas is famous for its huge caddis fly hatches in mid-June and large brown trout.  Recent surveys (Fall 2008) suggest the abundance of trout is down in both the Standard Regulation (32nd Street Bridge to Lightner Creek) and Gold Medal (Lightner Creek to Rivera Bridge Crossing) reaches.  However, both trout biomass and fish size are still high enough to meet or exceed criteria for Gold Medal designation.  Whirling disease resistant rainbow trout in the 4-6 inch range are being stocked as mitigation for the Animas La Plata project which pumps water out of the Animas River into Ridges Basin Reservoir (aka Lake Nighthorse) 2 miles away.  Approximately 33,000 of these rainbows were stocked in the Gold Medal reach last year and we will stock the same this year.  Although the pumping plant is operating and capable of pulling close to 300 cfs from the river, we anticipate pumping operations to cease in early July as the Bureau of Reclamation monitors the filling reservoir and dam.
 
McPhee Reservoir (4470 ac)
Located 1 mi west of Dolores McPhee Reservoir is known for its feisty smallmouth bass along with the opportunity to catch warmwater pan fish as well as trout and kokanee salmon.  The water levels have been good over the past couple of years and should be high this year as well.  Fishing should be good for smallmouth bass and black crappie are as large and numerous as we have ever seen in the reservoir.  The trout fishing has improved with the stocking of larger catchable trout and look for schools of kokanee in the end of House, Beaver, and Plateau creek arms feeding on zooplankton.  Walleye were found for the first time in McPhee Reservoir in 1993.  These fish were most likely introduced to the reservoir by an illegal stocking.  Walleye have now become the most abundant fish captured in gillnet surveys over the last couple of years.  However, because the prey base for walleye is relatively abundant (primarily stocked kokanee salmon and rainbow trout), these fish are sated and anglers are not capturing them.  There is no bag or possession limit for walleye in McPhee Reservoir.
 
Echo Canyon Reservoir (118 ac)
This popular mixed species reservoir is located 4 miles south of Pagosa Springs on Highway 84.  Fishing will be good for trout in the spring, largemouth bass in June, and green sunfish during the summer months.  Some large yellow perch inhabit this very productive reservoir as well as catfish and black crappie.  The lake is very weedy.
 
Upper San Juan River
This increasingly popular fishing destination is located within the city limits of Pagosa Springs.    Look for large rainbows in July and August thanks to a stocking program undertaken by area businesses.  The Colorado Division of Wildlife also supplements stocking in the river with over 3000 catchable rainbow trout in this 3 mile section of river..  Large brown trout are also typically captured on brown and black jig patterns in the fall.  Other tributaries to the upper San Juan include the East and West Forks of the San Juan River.  Much of the West Fork is private; however, there is about 6 miles of public water on the East Fork of the San Juan located along FR 667 (10 mi E. of Pagosa on Hwy 160).  Fishing is typically good during the months of July through October for rainbow and rainbow cutthroat hybrids (cuttbows) on grasshopper patterns or irresistibles.  The large landslide that closed FS Road 667 last year has been repaired.
 
Vallecito Reservoir (2720 ac)
Located 14 miles north of Bayfield (~20 mi NE of Durango) on County Road 501 Vallecito Reservoir is one of Colorados most beautiful Reservoirs.  Vallecito has always been known for its trophy northern pike fishing especially just after ice out in mid-April.  Because of the large pike population, the Division has started stocking 35,000 large 12-13 inch rainbow trout in the fall.  This strategy has resulted in much improved angler catch rates and satisfaction.  Fishing should be good this year, particularly for rainbow trout and pike.    Walleye fishing this spring has been relatively good.  Gillnet results show an increasing walleye population.  Smallmouth bass are also becoming increasingly popular with anglers with some quality sized fish taken every year.  Kokanee salmon abundance is increasing and fish should average 12-16 inches
 
Pastorious Reservoir (49 ac)
Located approximately 10 miles southeast of Durango (take Hwy. 550 to Cty Rd 220; East to Cty. Rd. 301; S. on 301 to Cty. Rd. 304 and the lake). Pastorius is popular with local anglers and typically stocked in early April and June with catchable (10 inch) rainbow trout.  We also stocked about 100 16-20 inch Broodfish rainbow trout in early spring.
 
Summit Reservoir (400 ac)
Located almost exactly halfway between Mancos and Dolores (~9 mi either direction) off Highway 184 Summit Reservoir has spectacular views of Mesa Verde to the West.  The reservoir is in transition after the CDOW removed all the fishes in the lake in 2007 to rid it of an overabundant white sucker population.  Heavy winter snow combined with low lake levels last fall resulted in a partial winter kill at Summit.  We have restocked with 12 inch rainbow trout and will be assessing the effects on other warm water species such as largemouth bass, bluegill and crappie this summer.  Channel catfish have been stocked over the last several years.
 
Puett Reservoir (145 ac)
Puett Reservoir is located just below Summit Reservoir but to get to it one must continue west from  Summit Reservoir on Highway 184 and turn on CR 33.  CR 33 is approximately 2 miles from Summit.  Go about 1 mile south on CR33 and look for a left hand turn back to the east (CR 25) about 1 mile from the highway.  Puett contains some good sized walleye and pan fishing.  The lake should maintain a relative high water level this year.
 
Totten Reservoir (250 ac)
Located 1 mile East of Cortez on Highway 160 (take Cty Rd 29 1 mi N to lake) Totten Reservoir should be good for warmwater pan fish and the occasional large walleye.  20,000 bluegill were stocked this spring.
 
Jackson Gulch Reservoir (217 ac)
Located 6 miles north of Mancos off Highway 184 (take 42 road to Mancos State Park and reservoir) this scenic reservoir supports rainbow trout and numerous yellow perch.  Water levels are expected to stay at normal elevations through the summer months.
 
Joe Moore Reservoir (25 ac)
Joe Moore is popular with local anglers.  It is located 3 miles north of Mancos on County Rd 40 (sign at highway intersections says Millwood Junction).  Joe Moore is typically good for larger yellow perch and feisty largemouth bass.  
 
Groundhog Reservoir (500 ac)
Groundhog Reservoir is located approximately 30 miles north of Dolores on road 526 (please consult a map for exact location).  Recent stocking of rainbow trout has improved the fishing considerably at this scenic lake.  Native Colorado cutthroat trout are also stocked annually.  Groundhog Reservoir is a very productive reservoir capable of growing trout into the 3-5 lb range.  These larger fish are primarily feeding on crayfish which makes them an excellent fish for harvesting.  Groundhog has a small private campground and cabins as well as a small country store, which is very handy if you forget marshmallows for smores!
 

For more information about Division of Wildlife go to: http://wildlife.state.co.us.

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EADS, Co – The Colorado Division of Wildlife has completed their investigation of a total fish kill at Nee Gronde Reservoir south of Eads. 
 
"All information points to a winterkill situation caused by an extremely cold winter paired with very low lake levels.  There were several weeks of thick ice cover on the lake last winter.  Such ice cover is rare in the southeast quadrant of the state," said Doug Krieger, a senior aquatic biologist with the DOW. 
 
"Capping the nutrient-rich lake under a cover of ice exhausted the oxygen supply.  It seems to be unprecedented.  Our biologists have never seen this kind of loss at Nee Gronde before," he said.
 
Unfortunately, there are virtually no fish left for anglers.
 
DOW employees noticed dead fish along the shoreline shortly after ice-out last month.   Aquatic Biologist Jim Ramsay set six nets on April 15, and set 12 nets on April 20, but only captured five carp that were barely alive. 
 
The DOW is currently devising a strategy to rebuild the fishery by stocking gizzard shad to develop a forage base. 
 
"This winter was a perfect storm of compromised water quality, low lake levels, and very cold winter temps.  It is a shame to lose such a productive fishery, but we plan to restore it over the next several months through an aggressive stocking program," said Krieger.
 
When full, Nee Gronde Reservoir has the capacity to hold over 100,000 acre feet of water at depths over 70 feet.   Other than minimal precipitation, Nee Gronde has not received any irrigation water during the past decade.  Today, the reservoir is less than half its capacity.
 
As water levels decline, salinity increases and oxygen levels decrease.  With no fresh water to Nee Gronde for many years, the water quality was compromised and it made the lake susceptible to environmental conditions. 
 
The DOW is looking for the right opportunity to purchase water for both Nee Gronde and Nee Noshe.  "This is a high priority for us," said Southeast Regional Manager Dan Prenzlow.  "This reservoir complex is an extremely popular place for our constituents to recreate.  Ultimately the best solution is to put more water into both of these reservoirs, otherwise a potential exists for this to happen again with the same negative impacts on recreation, the local economy, and the wildlife habitat the reservoirs provide."
 
NEE NOSHE DECLINE
 
Unfortunately, the prospects for fishing are not very good for nearby Nee Noshe either.  Once considered by many to be the best warm water fishery in Colorado, Nee Noshe also suffers from low water levels that have steadily declined since early in the decade as irrigation companies have stored irrigation water in other reservoirs. 
 
Ramsay reports that there are still catfish and wipers alive in Nee Noshe, but the fishing this year will only be a shadow of what it was in the past.
 
Currently, Nee Noshe covers less than 450 acres.  The DOW was able to purchase a small amount of water for the lake in 2008, but that water has essentially evaporated.  A fish kill (involving mainly carp and shad) occurred during fall of 2009. 
 
Boaters may be able to launch small vessels from the south boat ramp at Nee Noshe early in the season, but ramp conditions will deteriorate if the lake recedes during summer of 2010.  Boaters should call the DOW office in Lamar at 719-336-6600 to check the latest conditions before towing a boat to Nee Noshe.
 
OTHER FISHING OPTIONS IN SE COLORADO
 
John Martin Reservoir:  John Martin has maintained decent water levels for four consecutive years since it was almost drained in 2006.  The DOW purchased extra water last year to raise the permanent pool, and fishing was outstanding, especially for white bass, walleye, saugeye, and catfish.  The best fishing usually occurs during the spring months (mid April-June), but if 2010 is similar to 2009, fishing could be excellent throughout summer and fall.
 
Jackson’s Pond: This small pond is a popular fishing area located near the town of Eads that was developed by the Kiowa County Economic Development Foundation through the DOW’s "Fishing is Fun" project.  The pond is stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, and rainbow trout (seasonal).
 
Adobe Creek Reservoir: The normal water cycle at Adobe Creek is characterized by high spring water levels that are lowered throughout the summer.  In recent years, catfish have been the major attraction.  Large channel catfish are plentiful as well as large (but fewer) blue catfish.  Recent stocking of blue catfish is expected to bolster the numbers of this popular species.  Most catfish anglers fish from shore with large surf casting poles.  Popular baits include worms, large minnows, cut shad, crawdads, shrimp, and dough bait.  Adobe Creek also has crappie and saugeye.
 
Midwestern Farms Pond: This new gravel pit was opened to the public in 2008.  It is a deep lake, with 54′ of water in places.  It is located 6 miles east of Granada on Hwy 50.  The lake was stocked in 2008 and 2009 with most warm water species found in Colorado, as well as catchable sized (10-12") rainbow trout. The trout are available to catch all year long, due to the deep cool water.  They commonly take anglers’ offerings ranging from worms to power bait and spinners.

For more information about Division of Wildlife go to: http://wildlife.state.co.us.

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CRAWFORD, Colo. — The Colorado Division of Wildlife is developing a new fish management plan for Crawford Reservoir and is asking for input from anglers on this plan.
       
Two public meetings to discuss issues and ideas for the reservoir are scheduled:   May 6 at Memorial Hall in the Hotchkiss Public Library at 6 p.m.; and May 14 at the Bill Heddles Recreation Center in Delta at 6 p.m.
       
"This reservoir is a popular destination for anglers, but the fishery has changed drastically in the last ten years and we are no longer meeting our management goals," said Dan Kowalski, fisheries biologist for the DOW. "We want to hear from anglers about what they want for the reservoir."
       
The 400-acre lake provides a rare warm-water fishery on Colorado’s Western Slope. The existing management plan, written in 1987, is obsolete. Habitat conditions and the illegal introduction of new fish species have altered the fish community and fishing opportunities in the reservoir.
       
In the mid 1990s, the reservoir offered fishing for a variety of fish species including yellow perch, black crappie, channel catfish, largemouth bass and rainbow trout. The reservoir was known for producing quality-sized perch and bass and the DOW put in place management strategies to encourage these fisheries.  Recently, carp and northern pike have expanded greatly in numbers and the quality of the panfish and numbers of bass has declined.
       
The DOW wants to hear angler opinions and ideas on what fish species should be emphasized in the reservoir and what management strategies should be put in place. Strategies that will be considered include habitat improvement projects, fishing regulations, fish stocking, fish reclamations and the potential to introduce new fish species to the lake.
       
"These meetings are important because they’ll guide the DOW’s management strategies for many years," Kowalski said.
       
Anglers can find background information about the Crawford Reservoir fishery at the DOW web site at: http://wildlife.state.co.us/Fishing/Reports/FisherySurveySummaries/
       
For more information, contact Kowalski at (970)252-6017.

For more information about Division of Wildlife go to: http://wildlife.state.co.us.

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Prepared by:
Gary Dowler, Aquatic Biologist – Colorado Springs
Jim Melby, Aquatic Biologist – Pueblo
Greg Policky, Aquatic Biologist – Salida
Jim Ramsay, Aquatic Biologist – Lamar
Doug Krieger, SE Region Senior Aquatic Biologist
 
This report is based on the best information that we have available as of April 2010.  Water levels and streams flows, conditions that are not usually under DOW control, can change significantly and can have some affects on access, stocking and your fishing.  Surface acreages listed are for full lake volume unless otherwise noted.  For the most up-to-date information, go to http://wildlife.state.co.us/Fishing/Reports/.  You can also call your local DOW Office for more detailed information. 
 
A valid Colorado fishing license is required to fish in Colorado.
 
Check this out!  Expanded fishery information for 2010:  The Division of Wildlife is now providing anglers with more in-depth fishery information on a number of selected waters throughout the state.  Lake and stream information and fishery survey data can be found on the DOW website (go to Fishing > Reports > Fishing Water Summary), or click on the link:  http://wildlife.state.co.us/Fishing/Reports/FisherySurveySummaries/.
 
Important: Control of aquatic nuisance species (ANS) such as zebra and quagga mussels, New Zealand mud snails, didymo and other invasive animal and plant species is of critical importance in Colorado.  Of particular concern, is the potential to transport these species by trailered boats.  Please be aware that boat inspections will be conducted on a number of selected waters throughout the state, to inform and educate boaters on the proper way to eliminate these pests.  To facilitate these inspections please arrive at the lakes with your boat CLEANED, DRAINED AND DRY.  Your cooperation will help prevent the spread of these organisms that can destroy habitat and your fishing.
 
 
UPPER FOUNTAIN CREEK AND S. FORK REPUBLICAN RIVER
 
Rampart (500 ac) and Nichols Reservoirs (20 ac)
Water levels should be good for 2010.  Fishing access should be available but may change based on the latest Homeland Security threat level.  Boat ramp access to Rampart Reservoir  will be allowed from early May to early Oct, 7:00am-5:00pm, Thursday-Sunday with the following restrictions:  No rental vans; Class A, B or C motor homes, or trailers over 22 feet allowed across the dam.  No stopping on dam or fishing within 500 feet of the dam.  Call the US Forest Service, Pikes Peak Ranger District for updated access information.  Boaters are encouraged to clean, drain and dry their watercraft prior to arrival at the reservoir as all watercraft will be inspected prior to launching. 
 
Rampart Reservoir is a good place to fish early, soon after ice goes out, when the rainbows are hungry and are looking for food close to the shorelines.  Traditional techniques for trout fishing generally work well at both reservoirs.  These techniques include the use of spinners (Kastmasters, Pistol Petes as well as Mepp’s spinners) as well as worms and Powerbait.  Rampart Reservoir, as well as Nichols, is heavily stocked throughout the summer season with a good portion of the fish stocked in the springtime.  Total numbers of catchable trout stocked into these reservoirs is between 29,000-35,000 trout annually. 
 
Lake Trout fishing (at Rampart Reservoir) can also be good in the spring just after ice-out and then again in the fall.  During those times, mackinaw take advantage of cooler water in shallow areas and can be caught close to shore.  During warmer months of the year look for them in deeper (20-90′) and cooler water. Generally, shore anglers have good success with larger tube jigs bounced off the bottom during the early morning hours.  A short hiking trail leads to the smaller Nichols Reservoir below Rampart, and is a perfect place to take kids for some better than average trout fishing.  Rainbow fishing should be good to excellent at both of these reservoirs throughout the summer.  Please be aware of changing weather conditions.
 
North (210 ac) and South Catamount (150 ac) Reservoirs at the North Slope Pikes Peak Recreation Area
Water levels should be good to begin the fishing season. Provided waters levels are adequate, 22,000 catchable fish are scheduled to be stocked throughout the summer season in these reservoirs.  Fishing should be good to excellent for trout species especially rainbows.  Fishing for lake trout should be fair early in the spring at North Catamount and fishing should be good to excellent at South Catamount for rainbows.  North Catamount is restricted to flies and lures only.  Both of these reservoirs are heavily stocked with the majority of the fish stocked in the early spring.  Access will be allowed along the Pikes Peak Highway from May 1 – Oct 18.  Hours of operation for 2010 are as follows: May 1 to May 28, 9:00am-4:00pm; May 29 to Sept 7, 7:30am-7:00pm; Sept 8 to Sept 30, 7:30am- 6:00pm; Oct 1-Oct 18, 9:00am- 4:00pm. In addition, the Recreation Area is closed to fishing during the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Race scheduled for June 27th. For more information on access, see http://www.springsgov.com.  An access fee for the Pikes Peak Highway is required to fish these lakes.  Anglers are asked to please comply with the current fishing regulations as well as land use regulations as incidences of non-compliance have been increasing over the past few years. 
 
Crystal Creek Reservoir at the North Slope Pikes Peak Recreation Area (130 ac)
Water level is expected to be good and fishing should be good to excellent for catchable sized trout.  Both rainbow and Snake River cutthroat trout are scheduled to be stocked, with the majority of these fish being stocked in the spring. Anglers can access the reservoir via the Pikes Peak Highway from May 1 – Oct 18, (see above for hours).  Crystal Creek reservoir is an excellent place to introduce kids to fishing as the lake is heavily stocked (15,000 trout annually) and the access is generally very easy especially from the trail system located on the northwest corner of the reservoir.  Anglers generally have good success with power bait or worms.  A fee for access along the Pikes Peak Highway is required. 
 
Manitou Lake (16 ac)
This lake north of Woodland Park should be good to excellent for catchable trout species.  Manitou Lake is stocked throughout the summer season generally from April-June and Sept-Nov with upwards of 11,000 catchable trout. Water levels are projected to be excellent.  Manitou reservoir is an excellent place to introduce kids to fishing as the lake is heavily stocked and the access is very easy especially from the small trail system located on the northwest corner of the reservoir near the parking lot.  This is a US Forest Service lake that is managed by a concessionaire, and a fee is required.  Good camping can be found nearby at US Forest Service campgrounds.
 
Prospect Lake (50 ac)
Fishing for catchable trout species should be good to excellent throughout the year.  Lake Inventory efforts in 2009 show a strong year class of saugeye as well as bluegill.  Other species of note include wipers up to 15 inches as well as a strong population of black crappie.  As in previous years, crappie anglers last spring were rewarded with some very nice crappie.  Early reports from anglers are showing good catch rates on saugeye in the 17" range.  Anglers targeting crappie should focus their efforts on both the north as well as the south end of the lake as numerous habitat structures were placed in these locations, which crappie will utilize. This local favorite fishing lake is generally stocked with 10-12" trout from March-May and again in the late summer and fall after water temperatures cool off (August-Nov).  This lake is generally one of the first stocked. 
 
Palmer Lake (10 ac)
Low water levels during the past few years precluded stocking a full allotment of catchable trout in Palmer Lake.  During 2009, approximately 60% of the normal numbers of fish were stocked.  Based on current water levels, stocking rates should be similar this year with a total of 6,000 catchables being stocked if conditions allow.  The majority of these fish will be stocked early in the springtime and subsequently, trout fishing should be at its peak during this time.  In addition to catchable rainbows, Palmer Lake is also stocked with channel catfish as well as bluegill.  Look for action on these species to pick up during June.  Northern pike also reside in Palmer Lake. 
 
Monument Lake (40 ac)
Water levels in Monument Lake have been very good for the past couple of years, which has allowed for stocking of both warmwater as well as coldwater species.  Monument is scheduled to be stocked with 18,000 rainbow trout as well as 2,000 channel catfish.  Anglers are asked to please be respectful of the area surrounding the lake as numerous complaints were received last year regarding off-road vehicle use and abuse of facilities.
 
Rosemont Reservoir (90 ac)
Anglers should find good to excellent numbers of catchable sized rainbows and the occasional cutthroat trout and splake.  Rosemont should produce the best catch rates early in the spring and later in the fall.  This is a great place to escape for an afternoon of fishing throughout the summer months.  Rosemont Reservoir is restricted to flies and lures only.
 
Brush Hollow Reservoir (200 ac)
The water level is good right now, but this reservoir is drawn down for irrigation by early June so don’t hesitate to take advantage of fishing opportunities this spring.  Early spring action is generally focused on catchable trout as well as crappie.  Last spring saw some good crappie action especially during late April and early May.  Fishing should be fair to good for most species, such as bluegill, sunfish, channel catfish, and yellow perch.  We would expect to see some fine walleye and largemouth bass fishing as these populations look very strong as supported by sampling efforts, especially, with regards to the walleye. 
 
Fishing for trout is good in the early spring, and the warmwater fishing should improve as water temperatures increase in late April.  For anglers targeting catfish, success is generally better from late June to late Sept.  Overall, the fishing is expected to good to very good early, prior to the spawning of the primary forage, gizzard shad.  Testing conducted by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment revealed mercury levels in certain sizes of walleye exceeded human health based standards.  Please see the fish consumption advisory posted at the reservoir or refer to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment website at http://www.cdphe.state.co.us/wq/fishcon for more details
 
Quail Lake (17 ac) and Pikeview Reservoir (2 ac)
Water levels can vary in these lakes, but should be good throughout the summer if water can be added to the lakes.  Plants of rainbow trout are plentiful in both lakes beginning in March to provide for good to excellent early spring fishing.  Fishing at Quail Lake should be good for channel catfish once water temperatures rise above 60ºF, and it should also be fair for bluegills and yellow perch after May 1.  The new facilities at Pikeview Reservoir were completed during 2008.  These facilities include restroom facilities as well as a small parking lot located on the north side of the main treatment facility along Aeration way.  Access to the new facilities is off Mark Dabling Road. Please respect the business owners along Garden of the Gods Road and do not park at their lots. 
 
Hale Ponds (6 ac total) (east of Bonny Reservoir)
Water level is good in all of the ponds.  We expect good fishing for largemouth bass, smaller bluegills, channel catfish, and catchable rainbows.  This group of small ponds is a good place to take the kids fishing in the spring and early summer.  There are great camping facilities at Bonny Reservoir State Park.  Please be aware of rattlesnakes in the area around Hale ponds.
 
Bonny Reservoir (1850 ac)
The present water level at Bonny Reservoir is about 18 feet below normal.  In spite of the low water, the fishery is doing fair with some species adapting to the lower water levels better than others.  Fishing for wipers and white bass is anticipated to be poor as these two species appear to be impacted by low water levels.  On the other hand, fishing for walleye and channel catfish should be fair to good.  Inventory efforts in 2009 revealed a very strong population of walleye with excellent representation of fish over 20 inches  Please contact Colorado State Parks website for current boat launching conditions and recommendations as well as hours of operation as Bonny State Park has significantly changed it operations for 2010 due to budget cuts.
 
Flagler Reservoir (150 ac)
Water levels appear to be getting better as the reservoir is approximately 50% full.  Stocking will resume commensurate with water levels with a few catchable fish stocked (bluegill, crappie and channel catfish) as they become available.  A few walleye will be stocked as fingerling fish and should be at a catchable size in a few years if waters levels remain adequate. 
 
Ramah Reservoir (170 ac)
The lake has a history of "feast or famine" when it comes to water levels and currently this reservoir is unfortunately going through a "famine" cycle.  Water for this reservoir is very dependent upon spring/summer rains.  If water levels increase, stocking of warm water fish will continue.
 
 
MIDDLE ARKANSAS RIVER BASIN
 
Pueblo Reservoir (3000 ac)
Water levels look to start out very good in 2010 so there will be lots of new areas to fish.  Anglers can expect better than average fishing for walleye, wiper, bass, catfish, and trout this season.  The walleye population appears to be at very high levels and should produce high catch rates in May and June.  Only a low number of legal fish over 18 inches in length (approximately 3-7 per 100 walleye caught) are likely to be caught by the average angler but results during walleye spawn showed more male walleye that were of legal size and a very good year class of 3 and 4 year old female walleye.  Walleye can be caught all year long, but some of the best fishing is in May and June when the fish are schooled tightly on the flats and points throughout the lake.  Jigs and grubs tipped with nightcrawlers are very popular baits.  The wiper population is still declining some in the reservoir, but what it lacks in numbers, it makes up in quality.  There are good numbers of fish in the 5-15 pound range if anglers can talk them into biting.  There is also a very good year class of 1 to 1.5 pound wipers moving into the wiper fishery.  Wipers are notoriously picky about what they will feed on. 
 
Smallmouth and spotted bass are doing very well and largemouth bass numbers are improving.  Catch rates on bass will be high and catches of legal fish over 15 inches can be common.  Catfish numbers are improving and quality is high with fish in the 20 to 30 pound class showing up each year.  Anglers should be looking for the flathead catfish present in the lake as a new state record flathead can show up at any time.  Catfishermen do well during the summer months and into the fall.  The trout fishery in the reservoir will be fair in 2010 with fair numbers of fish in the 14 to 22 inch range.  Anglers could potentially see some decent catches of crappie in 2010 as population has been improving with increasing water levels in the reservoir.  Good numbers of bluegill can be found around the brush and the tire break waters for anglers who wish to pursue these fish.  Worms and bobbers work well for bluegill.  Boaters need to be aware of the zebra and quagga mussel inspections at the reservoir. 
 
Trinidad Reservoir (1000 ac)
Trinidad Reservoir should have good water levels in 2010 and fishing is expected to be good.  We currently have good numbers of walleye, saugeye, wiper, catfish, and trout.  Walleye and saugeye are abundant, but most fish will be smaller.  However, persistent anglers will be rewarded with some larger (>15") fish.  Walleye and saugeye anglers will start catching good numbers of fish in May and continue to catch these fish into July and August.  Drifting jigs and nightcrawlers on the bottom is a very good technique.  Wiper numbers are the best we have seen to date and some quality fish over 10 pounds are showing up in the population.  They are hard to catch in Trinidad and still fishing with chicken liver seems to be an effective technique.  Catfish numbers are low but quality is good with fair numbers of fish in the 4-10 pound range.  Night fishing is effective for these fish.  The trout fishery will remain very good with lots of catchable fish being stocked along with good number of holdover fish in the 16 to 20 inch range.  Again, expect that declining water levels will create some boating hazards later in the season and anglers need to be careful.  Testing has determined that mercury levels in some sizes of walleye and saugeye in the reservoir exceed the State’s human health standard.  Please see the fish consumption advisory posted at the reservoir or refer to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment website at http://www.cdphe.state.co.us/wq/fishcon for more details.
 
Martin Reservoir (at Lathrop State Park) (200 ac)
Martin Reservoir has undergone an outlet structure replacement in the spring of 2010.  Water levels are expected to be quite a bit lower due to this project and some parts of the fishery may have suffered from the low water over the winter.  The fishery can produce some good fish, but the limited surface area of the lake and the popularity of recreational boating make fishing this reservoir a little challenging.  Anglers can expect to catch a diverse bag of fish including bass, bluegill, catfish, northern pike, walleye, saugeye, wipers, trout, and yellow perch.  There are good quality fish available in all of these species, but anglers will have to work for their catch.  The weed beds in the lake are expanding each year, which improves the habitat, but makes fishing tougher.  Northern pike numbers are expanding in the lake and will provide some excellent pike fishing opportunities.  Trout fishing will be excellent as high numbers of fish are being stocked.  Eurasian milfoil has been found in the lake and anglers need to be careful to clean their boats well after being on the lake to assure that this noxious weed is not spread to other waters.  It would be best to call Lathrop State Park prior to going to Martin to make sure there is enough water to launch a boat. 
 
Horseshoe Reservoir (at Lathrop State Park) (170 ac)
Water levels are very good in Horseshoe Reservoir.  Much like Martin Reservoir, this is a small lake, but the fish are doing pretty well.  There are good populations of bass and bluegill as well as sauger, tiger muskie, catfish and trout.  Largemouth and smallmouth bass populations are exceptionally good in the lake and catch rates should be high, with chances for some very high quality fish to include some 18+" smallmouth.  Catfish are present in much lower numbers, but show some quality-sized individuals.  Sauger populations are on the increase and there is an opportunity to catch a new state record.  Anglers can still catch some quality tiger muskie in excess of 20 pounds, but muskie numbers appear to be somewhat low.  Trout stocking is high and trout growth is good which results in some very good quality trout fishing.  Testing has determined that mercury levels in some sizes of sauger and smallmouth bass in the reservoir exceed the State’s human health standard.  Please see the fish consumption advisory posted at the reservoir or refer to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment website at http://www.cdphe.state.co.us/wq/fishcon for more details.  Eurasian milfoil has been found in the lake and anglers need to be careful to clean their boats well after being on the lake to assure that this noxious weed is not spread to other waters. 
 
San Isabel Lake (30 ac)
Fishing will be very good for catchable trout.  Brown trout and splake populations are low and fish growth is poor.  Anglers may catch a few of these fish during the season.  Good fishing starts at ice out and continues until ice begins to form in the fall.  Winter ice fishing is also excellent at this water.  Anglers will also likely encounter some "goldfish looking fish."  These are European Rudd that are a result of an unknown stocking.  Please remove these fish from the lake if you catch them, as they are an undesirable species.
 
DeWeese Reservoir (200 ac)
DeWeese Reservoir will be full early in 2010.  Catchable trout are scheduled early and should provide good fishing throughout the season.  Some holdover rainbows and cuttbows will be available in the 16 to 20 inch range.  Brown trout will be available in low numbers, but the possibility of a good brown in the 16-18 inch range is not out of the question.  Smallmouth bass are abundant in the reservoir and could provide some fast action.  Most of these fish will be smaller and range from 6 to 12 inches in length, but fish to 18 inches can be caught at times.  Anglers are encouraged to harvest some of the smallmouth bass.  Anglers also have the opportunity to catch a tiger muskie in DeWeese as these fish have been stocked to control suckers.  The reduction of the sucker population has resulted in improved growth in the trout in the lake and fish in the 3-4 pound range are beginning to show in the catch.  As sucker numbers continue to decline in the reservoir, trout growth should continue to improve and angling opportunities will also improve.
 
North Lake (100 ac)
North Lake will provide some excellent fishing for catchable rainbow trout and splake this year.  Splake populations continue to improve and are now playing a key role in the fisheries management on the lake.  Catchable rainbow trout are stocked during the summer and early fall months and fishing is good throughout the ice free season.  Ice fishing can be very good on the lake when ice conditions are safe.  North Lake is restricted to the use of flies and lures only.  Boating on North Lake is with hand, wind, or electric motors only.
 
Monument Reservoir (40 ac)
Monument reservoir will be good in 2010 for catchable trout.  The reclamation project to remove suckers from the reservoir was completed in 2009 and restocking of brown trout and splake has been continued.  It will take a couple of years for these species to re-establish in the reservoir.  Fishing in the mean time for catchable rainbow trout should be very good.
 
Valco Ponds (range from 5 – 30 ac)
Three of the Valco Ponds located off the river below Pueblo Reservoir are now open for angling.  Anglers will find good opportunities to catch some nice saugeye and catfish in these lakes.  Anglers will also find some decent bass, crappie and bluegill fishing in the lakes, but should restrain from harvesting many of the bass as this population is not very tolerant to high harvest.  We have been working hard on rebuilding crappie populations in these waters and anglers could see some results from these programs in 2010.  We also have a feeding program in place on Valco Pond #1 and this is resulting in some very nice catfish up to around 20 pounds.  Anglers should practice moderate harvest on these catfish to allow for further growth and larger fish for future years. 
 
Arkansas River – below Pueblo Dam
This reach of river extends from the Pueblo dam through the city of Pueblo, and there is abundant public access on city and State Park lands.  The City of Pueblo provides some good maps showing access points, trails, and parking.  This river reach will provide some excellent fishing for catchable rainbow trout as fish are stocked year round.  Anglers can also expect to see some brown trout in their catch.  Browns are not as plentiful as rainbows, but some nice size fish can be caught.  A year round creel survey completed in 2008 showed anglers caught about 50,000 fish in this reach and action is usually fast.  The size of rainbows and cuttbows continue to improve and fish larger than 20" are increasing.  There are also some good warmwater opportunities for smallmouth bass and walleye in the tailrace and in deeper pools in the river – particularly after irrigation season in late August and Sept.  Conditions will change rapidly with change in flows in the river.  Winter is generally a very good time to fish except when flows are severely diminished. 
 
 
UPPER ARKANSAS RIVER BASIN
 
Clear Creek Reservoir (400 ac)
Clear Creek Reservoir is traditionally one of the most productive and dependable fishing reservoirs in the upper Arkansas River basin.  Catch rates consistently exceed one fish/angler-hour and the majority of anglers rate the quality of their fishing experience as good to excellent.  It produces excellent fishing for stocked (10 inch) rainbow and Snake River cutthroat trout with an occasional large brown trout over 18 inches being taken.  Kokanee salmon survival and fishing has been poor in recent years.  Reasons for this decline are being investigated.  Kokanee snagging is allowed in the reservoir and upstream about 0.5 miles to the gauging station from Oct 31 to Dec 31.  Flycasters are learning that kokanee salmon can be caught with small flies and egg patterns during the spawning run, usually from Oct to Dec. 
 
Tiger muskie, a sterile cross between a northern pike and a muskie, were recently introduced to this reservoir to prey on an abundant sucker population while providing the opportunity for anglers to catch a trophy sized fish.  Sucker numbers are declining and tiger muskie averaged 28 inches in 2009 and fish exceeding 30 inches were more common.  The limit for tiger muskie is one fish, 36 inches or longer.  The lake is serviced by one concrete boat ramp and a boat dock will be installed in 2010.  Boating was not allowed in 2008 to prevent the spread of zebra/quagga mussels into the reservoir.  A watercraft inspection program was initiated at this reservoir in 2009 and will be expanded in 2010.  Trailered boat launching will be allowed beginning May 6th from 7 am to 5 pm from Thursday through Sunday.  Beginning May 27th, the lake will be open Thursday through Monday from 6am to 9pm.  The hours will be reduced beginning Sept 9th from 7am –5pm Thursday through Sunday.  The ramp will close for the season on Sept 26, 2010.  Dispersed camping is allowed just upstream of the reservoir along Clear Creek.
 
Mt. Elbert Forebay (250 ac)
This reservoir fluctuates considerably due to pump back hydropower generation.  This mode of operation typically impacts productivity and fishery potential.  Remarkably, it routinely produces some of the best catches of large lake trout in the upper Arkansas River basin, ranking 1st in terms of mackinaw abundance with an average size of 17 inches and maximum lengths over 40 inches.  Lake trout sustain themselves naturally and survival and growth is good.  The limit is one fish and all lake trout 22-34 inches long must be released.  This lake also harbors a good trout population.  Rainbow trout provide the most consistent action at the Forebay with anglers enjoying catch rates averaging almost one fish per hour.  Catchable trout are stocked from late May to late August.  In turn, most of the rainbow trout caught average 12 inches with consistent action throughout the summer fishing season using typical baits.  Trout that survive the summer and over-winter to the next spring provide for some very good ice-out action in May and early June.  These fish average 15 inches and are vulnerable to wooly worms or lures fished slowly from the south shore. 
 
Lake trout anglers find good success from the south shore in the spring using large Rapallas but trolling or jigging from a boat produces the highest catch rate throughout the season.  Shore anglers report good success for lake trout while bait fishing for trout.  Keep in mind that only carry-on boats, including float tubes, are legal on the Forebay.  There is no boat ramp but if you can carry it, you can launch it.  The best boater access is from the southwest corner of the lake.  Park along the edge of the road but do not block the locked gate.  Use extreme caution with small craft due to water level fluctuations.  The north dam is closed to the public.  Facilities are primitive here but the fishery makes the trip worthwhile.  Lake County entities and the Division of Wildlife are currently exploring the possibility of improving facilities (e.g. restrooms, parking, and primitive boat ramp for small boats only).
 
Skaguay Reservoir (115 ac)
This lake should be full in 2010.  Catchable trout are stocked throughout the summer providing good action for anglers.  They range in size from 10-14 inches.  Brown trout have become more prevalent in recent years, comprising 27% of the total catch and reaching lengths over 14 inches.  Though scarce, this reservoir supports a population of northern pike that average 24 inches with fish exceeding 40 inches in length.  There is no limit on northern pike.  Anglers are encouraged to catch and harvest these toothy predators.  This will help to minimize trout predation while maximizing northern pike growth (more food for fewer fish).  The inlet area offers the best habitat for northern pike.  Angler facilities are good at
Skaguay Reservoir and include a concrete boat ramp, parking, and restrooms.  Wakeless boating is required.  Beaver Creek below the reservoir offers good brown trout fishing for the stream fishing enthusiast
 
Turquoise Reservoir (1600 ac)
Turquoise Reservoir supports an abundant lake trout population.  Although they are small, with most under 20 inches, they offer the opportunity for anglers to catch an often hard-to-catch species.  Most shore anglers fish from the south and east shorelines and find good action for mackinaw in June before fish move to deeper water.  Using downriggers from a boat is the key to catching lake trout as the summer progresses.  The bag limit for lake trout is two fish with no size restrictions. 
 
Catchable-sized (10+ inch) trout stocking resumed in 2007 and will continue in the future.  Rainbow and Snake River cutthroat trout are being stocked from the Leadville National Fish Hatchery from June through early Sept.  These fish should dramatically improve fishing at Turquoise Reservoir.  Typical baits, flies, and lures for trout should be used.  An occasional large brown trout is landed at Turquoise. 
 
Abundant facilities (e.g. numerous campgrounds, two concrete boat ramps) and scenic vistas make this one of the most enjoyable places to fish in the State.  Water level should be normal in 20010 and fishing is predicted to be good.  A watercraft inspection program was initiated at this reservoir in 2009 and will be expanded in 2010.  Trailered boat launching will be allowed seven days per week from 6am to 9pm from May 28 through Sept 19 at the Matchless boat ramp only.  Both ramps will be closed at night.
 
Twin Lakes Reservoir (2000 ac)
Twin Lakes were historically known for trophy lake trout, and although that reputation diminished in the 1990′s that fishery is on its way back.  Lake trout average just under 20", but large lake trout approaching 40 inches have been more common in recent years.  Some of the best action can be found at ice-out near the hydropower plant or where the upper lake enters the lower lake.  Casting large Rapallas seems to work best.  Fishing from a boat with downriggers produces the best catch as the summer progresses and mackinaw have moved to deeper water.  Lures or deep water jigging with tube jigs tipped with sucker meat also works well at this time. 
 
Trout action has picked up in recent years and is consistent from ice-out well into the fall.  They average 12 inches in early summer with a maximum size of nearly 20 inches.  Catchable rainbow and Snake River cutthroat trout are stocked from early June through Sept.  Twin Lakes offer good fishing in an exceptional mountain setting and are serviced by two concrete boat ramps (one in the upper lake and one in the lower) and two campgrounds.  Water level should be normal in 20010 and fishing should be good. 
 
A watercraft inspection program was initiated at this reservoir in 2009 and will be expanded in 2010.  Trailered boat launching will be allowed at the Dexter Point ramp only beginning May 14th from 6am to 2pm on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.  Beginning May 28th, the lake will be open 7 days a week from 6am to 9pm.  The hours will be reduced beginning Sept 24th from 7am – 3pm on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.  The ramps will close for the season on Oct 24, 2010.  Red Rooster will be physically closed at all times and both ramps will be closed at night. 
 
 
LOWER ARKANSAS RIVER BASIN
 
John Martin Reservoir (currently about  4000 ac. )
For four consecutive years now (since John Martin was almost drained in 2006) the lake has maintained decent water levels.  The lake tends to begin the spring fishing season with relatively high levels, and is depleted over the summer as irrigators pull water from the lake.  The timing of these drawdowns affects reproductive success of many of the species that rely on shoreline habitat for spawning.  Crappie and bass species (in particular) are negatively affected by water releases early in the season.  DOW purchased some extra water from the city of Aurora to raise the permanent pool.  Currently, the permanent pool stands at over 7000 acre ft.  This pool will help ensure the lake will not be completely drained during periods of irrigation releases.  Fishing was outstanding in 2009, especially for white bass, walleye/saugeye, and catfish.  Many anglers took limits of these species during spring and summer months.  Current regulations for John Martin require all kept walleye/saugeye to be at least 15".  Only one may exceed 21".  The limit is 5 fish for walleye/saugeye.
 
Fishing in 2010 is again expected to be excellent.  The best fishing usually occurs during the spring months (mid April-June), but if 2010 is similar to 2009, fishing could be excellent throughout summer and fall.  Saugeye, wiper, and white bass can be caught with a wide variety of tackle, but the most commonly used lures are small jigs tipped with a worm or minnow, worm harnesses, and shad-imitating crank baits.  These rigs can be cast, slowly trolled, or drifted near structure for best results.  Fishing for crappie was again sporadic in 2009.  Anglers targeting crappies found some success during spring months fishing from the rocky areas on the dam and railroad trestle areas.  Few anglers caught limits, but many anglers caught fewer numbers of  large fish, ranging from 12"  to 15".  Crappies usually begin moving up on the submerged rocks of the in mid-April preparing for spawn.  Crappie anglers are most successful fishing with small jigs or live minnow rigs from these rocky areas from mid-April throughout May.  Extra crappies will be stocked when available to boost natural populations.  Catfish anglers in 2009 had the most success in the shallower west end of the lake and in the spillway below the dam.  Fishing for catfish in 2010 should be good using standard baits such as worms, shrimp or crawdads (also effective wiper baits), dough bait, or chicken livers.  Boat inspections are required to prevent aquatic invasive species.  Boat anglers should call John Martin State Park or view their website for details on the boat inspection schedule.  Anglers can also contact State Park at John Martin or check the DOW fishing report on the internet for the latest fishing conditions.
 
Nee Noshe Reservoir (about 400 ac.)
Unfortunately, the prospects for fishing are not very good for Nee Noshe in 2010.  Once considered by many to be the best warm water fishery in Colorado, water levels have steadily declined since early in the decade as irrigation companies have stored irrigation water in other reservoirs.  Currently, the lake covers less than 450 acres.  The DOW was able to purchase a small amount of water for the lake in 2008, but that water has essentially evaporated.  A fish kill (involving mainly carp and shad) occurred during fall of 2009.  Fall sampling indicated that populations of catfish and wiper are the remaining sport fish available at Nee Noshe.  Anglers wishing to try for these species may have some success in 2010, especially in the spring.  Boaters may be able to launch small vessels from the south boat ramp early in the season, but ramp conditions are expected to deteriorate as the lake recedes during summer of 2010.  Boaters should call the Lamar DOW office before towing a boat to Nee Noshe.
 
Nee Gronde Reservoir (1400 ac)
Other than minimal precipitation, the irrigation companies did not add any fresh water to Nee Gronde Reservoir in 2009, and water levels continue to slowly decline.  However, Nee Gronde is still fairly deep in places with depths up to 20′.  Although waters levels have diminished this reservoir is still highly productive.  Expectations were high for another phenomenal fishing season at Nee Gronde.  Unfortunately, a severely cold winter with extended ice and snow cover combined with low water levels caused a substantial fish kill.  While the majority of the dead fish appear to be carp, some game fish also died.  It is unclear if game fish populations have been severely damaged.  Investigations are underway to determine the extent of the kill.  Anglers should contact the Lamar DOW office to get the latest information. 
 
Efforts are continuing to provide boat access to Nee Gronde during these low water periods.  Currently, a low water gravel ramp that had been submerged for many years is being refurbished to provide boat access.  Boaters should contact the Lamar DOW office before towing a boat to Nee Gronde. 
 
Adobe Creek Reservoir (Blue Lake) (variable, 700 – 2500 ac)
The normal water cycle at Blue Lake is characterized by high spring water levels that are lowered throughout the season as irrigators draw water out.  These draw downs have mixed effects on the fishery, depending on timing.  When draw downs occur during crappie spawning periods, it can cause spawning failure by dewatering spawning beds while they are in use.  Yearly draw downs can have some benefits for the lake, as new plant growth develops on the shoreline as the water recedes.  This plant growth can add productivity and habitat to the lake when these areas are flooded during water storage. 
 
Efforts have been made to increase crappie populations.  Many new crappie spawning beds were installed to promote natural crappie production.  Additionally, hatchery produced crappie fingerlings are stocked when available.  The fall gillnetting sample continues to show good crappie numbers.  These crappies have been somewhat elusive to anglers and have caused some frustration.  But persistence should pay off.  Anglers should focus on fish holding habitat when pursuing these fish.  If an area is unproductive, anglers should move to another spot without spending too much time in unproductive areas.  Usually, when a crappie is caught, there are more in the area.  Also, a variety of baits and techniques should be tried.  Often, crappie can be caught on live minnow rigs, small jigs, or shiny spinners or Kastmasters. 
 
One species that has been largely overlooked at Blue Lake are saugeyes.  These fish are plentiful and should provide good action for anglers pursuing them.  All saugeye/walleye caught at Blue Lake must be 15" or greater to keep.  Only one can be greater than 21".  The limit is 5 fish.  Anglers targeting saugeye should try slow trolling shad imitating crank baits or worm harnesses.  Other successful methods include drifting jigs tipped with worms or minnows, jigging around flooded tamarisk, or live bait fishing.
 
In recent years, catfish have been the major attraction at Blue Lake.  Large channel catfish are plentiful as well as large (but fewer) blue catfish.  Recent stocking of blue catfish is expected to bolster the numbers of this popular species.  Most catfish anglers fish from shore with large surf casting poles.  Popular baits include worms, large minnows, cut shad, crawdads, shrimp, and dough bait.  Anglers targeting the large blue catfish sometimes suspend a live fish (sunfish or other legal bait fish) off of the bottom.  Evening and night fishing is preferred by most anglers, but daytime anglers can also be successful. 
 
Two Buttes Reservoir (< 100 acres)
The lake had been dry after a leaky headgate at the dam caused the loss of all water.  These head gates were repaired when the lake was dry.  A precipitation event added about 4 ft. of water to the lake during summer 2009.  Currently, the lake is very low.  It is hoped that another storm will add some much needed water in the near future.  Only a small number of bluegill have been stocked recently.  The lake will be restocked when water levels are sufficient.
 
The Black Hole Pond immediately below Two Buttes Dam is stocked yearly with channel catfish, bluegill, saugeye, largemouth bass, and rainbow trout (seasonal).  This deep, spring fed pond is a popular swimming hole and cliff diving spot, but fishing can be very good throughout the year. 
 
Turks Pond (< 50 ac)
Currently, Turks Pond is still low, but improving.  The well that supplies water to the pond received some much needed repairs in 2009.  Fresh water is flowing in and water levels are increasing slowly.  The fishery at Turks is improving as water levels increase.  Fall electrofishing sampling revealed good numbers of channel catfish, wiper, and saugeye.  Crappie numbers are slowly improving, and future fish management efforts will concentrate on improving numbers of these popular panfish.  Gizzard shad numbers are still relatively low following the shad winter kill in 2007.  More shad will be stocked in 2010 to bolster these forage fish.  Catfish and wiper fishing should be fair to good in 2010.  Catfish in the 4 – 6 lb. range are common, and can be caught throughout spring and summer using traditional baits such as cut shad, dough bait, chicken livers, shrimp, and worms.  Anglers catch wipers using shad-imitating crank baits, twister tail jigs, and shiny spinners.  Bait fishermen catch wipers using worms, minnows, and shrimp.  Crappie anglers should begin looking for these fish in late April along the rocky dam area.  Small jigs or live minnow rigs work the best for crappie.  Largemouth bass and bluegill are present in increasing numbers and can be caught with traditional baits.  Catchable trout (10"-12") are also stocked in the spring as an added bonus.  Grass carp were stocked in the 90s to control aquatic weeds.  These fish have grown to trophy size and are common at Turks.  These fish are difficult to catch, but some anglers specifically target them with flies and other small lures known to catch grass carp. 
 
Meredith Reservoir (3000 ac)
Meredith Lake was essentially dried in 2003-2004.  This large, shallow lake was refilled and fish stocking resumed in 2005.  Fall gillnetting in 2009 showed a good shift from large numbers of undesirable fish (carp, shad, and bullheads), to better numbers of game fish, especially wipers, saugeye, and crappie.  Although these fish are relatively small, they are plentiful and should grow quickly in Meredith’s highly productive waters containing plentiful forage.  Added benefits to fishing Meredith are the small crowds and liberal bag limits.  Anglers can harvest up to 20 crappie, 10 saugeye/walleye, and 20 wiper/white bass, regardless of size.
 
Anglers wanting to try their luck for crappies should fish around the pier or the many flooded tamarisk trees around the lake.  Anglers should fish around the structure with small jigs or live minnow rigs.  Saugeye and wiper can be caught in open water areas as well as near structure.  These fish are usually located near schools of baitfish.  Typical wiper and saugeye lures are  jigs tipped with a worm or minnow, worm harnesses, shad-imitating crank baits, or live bait. Channel catfish and largemouth bass are other game fish species that can be found at Meredith.  Populations of these species are increasing, and should provide good fishing in the near future.  Catfish can be caught with traditional baits such as cut shad, dough bait, chicken livers, shrimp, and worms.  Largemouth bass tend to stay near trees, submerged logs, or other structure.  They can be caught by casting various types of lures.  Some examples of bass lures are: plastic worms, spinner baits, jerk baits, jigs, and large spinners.
 
Henry Lake (1000 ac)
In 2009, water levels at Henry fluctuated dramatically.  After remaining fairly full for most of the summer, our fall gillnetting sample was plagued by extremely low water levels that made the sampling difficult.  The resulting data showed lower numbers of fish than what is indicated by angler catch rates.  Henry has historically been a popular catfishing destination.  Many large cats (10 lbs +) inhabit this lake.  Anglers catch these fish with traditional catfish baits including cut shad, dough bait, worms, shrimp, and chicken livers.  Crappie fishing has been good for the past 2 years.  All indications point to 2010 being another good year for crappie fishing at Henry.  Anglers should have success catching crappie from the rocky dam areas as water warms throughout the spring.  Small plastic jigs and live minnow rigs are effective for crappie. Wiper and saugeye are also present, but in lower numbers.  These fish are stocked annually at Henry, and can produce good year classes of fish from time to time.  Many of these fish exit the reservoir during irrigation releases.  Large amounts of water are exchanged in this shallow reservoir.  Fish loss is a problem during these releases. 
 
Thurston Reservoir (100 – 200 acres)
Water levels at Thurston were very good in 2009.  The lake filled in the spring and remained full throughout the year.  Largemouth bass populations have really taken off at Thurston.  Anglers caught bass throughout the year, ranging from 6" to 18".  Currently the lake has good water levels, but rumors abound regarding future attempts by irrigators to pump water out.  If water levels remain good, bass fishing at Thurston should be excellent in 2010.  Anglers can catch these fish with a variety of bass lures, but weedless or top water baits should be used, due to the heavy aquatic vegetation throughout the lake.  Shore fishing is difficult due to heavy vegetation around the lake.  Anglers should be prepared to wade or fish from belly boats or other small vessels.
 
Other species available to anglers include black crappie, channel catfish, saugeye, and walleye.  These species are present in lower numbers, but should increase through stocking and natural reproduction, if water levels stay sufficiently high.  Anglers can call the Lamar DOW office to get information on water levels at Thurston before traveling to the lake. 
 
Midwestern Farms Pond (35 acres)
This new gravel pit was acquired and opened to the public in 2008.  It is a deep lake, with 54′ of water in places.  It is located 6 miles east of Granada on Hwy 50.  The lake was stocked in 2008 and 2009 with most warm water species found in Colorado, as well as catchable sized (10" – 12") rainbow trout.  The trout are available to catch all year long, due to the deep cool water.  They commonly take anglers offerings, ranging from worms, power bait, and spinners.
 
Habitat projects have involved placing fish holding structure at various places at the Midwestern Farm Pond.  Many are marked with white buoys.  Although most game fish are small in this new lake, some trophy sized brooder catfish and smallmouth bass have been stocked to provide immediate action to anglers. 
 
Jackson’s Pond (8 acres)
This popular fishing area is located near the town of Eads.  As a "Fishing is Fun" project; this pond is being developed by the Kiowa County Economic Development Foundation and the fishery is managed by DOW.  Currently, the pond is stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, and rainbow trout (seasonal).  Anglers catch bluegill using a variety of methods, but the most popular is simply a bobber and worm rig.  Largemouth bass can be caught using jigs, spinners, jerk baits, spinner baits, or small lures.  Most of the bass at Jackson’s are small, although some fish around 15" have been caught.  A population of stunted crappie exists in the pond.  They are currently being thinned, and anglers are encouraged to keep all crappie caught.  Crappie can be caught using small tube or curly tail jigs (2" or less).  Catfish bite on a variety of baits, but the most popular are worms, shrimp, dough bait, or cut bait.  Recent projects have included installation of an automatic catfish feeder to promote growth of catfish (and other species) and the creation of deeper water levels by raising the spillway with a new cement structure. 
 
Holbrook and Timber (Horse Creek) Reservoirs (mostly dry)
Holbrook Res. was filled in 2008.  This water was stored for a short period and then mostly released. Some water was retained in the basin.  If future water operations provide sufficient levels at Holbrook, the fish stocking program may be resumed.  Horse Creek Res. remains completely dry.
 
Upper Queens Reservoir (0 ac)
Upper Queens went dry in 2005.  The lake will be restocked when conditions allow.

For more information about Division of Wildlife go to: http://wildlife.state.co.us.

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DENVER, Colo. — The Colorado Division of Wildlife is starting its 5-year review of statewide fishing regulations and is asking anglers throughout the state to provide comments and suggestions on regulations and possible changes.
       
Regulation planning will be discussed throughout Colorado at "Angler Roundtable" meetings that will begin in late March. Management and research for various waters will also be discussed at the meetings. Dates and locations of those meetings are still being scheduled and will be announced later.
       
Aquatic biologists continually evaluate fisheries, and every five years the Colorado Wildlife Commission looks at all fishing regulations to ensure that the DOW continues to meet fisheries management objectives and recreational needs of anglers. The regulations set allowable methods of take, season dates, size requirements and bag limits. The regulations include statewide rules that apply to individual waters throughout Colorado.
       
Besides regulations, DOW biologists will examine biological and social data from state waters. These include fish and creel surveys, research and trend information, water quality issues, stocking activity and angler-satisfaction surveys. That information will be considered in the decision-making process for setting new regulations.
       
"We actively seek input from anglers during this process," said Greg Gerlich, aquatic section manager for the DOW. "Colorado’s anglers represent a diverse group who enjoy angling for everything from trout to walleye. We enjoy hearing from anglers and also educating them on how they play a role in management and regulatory decisions."
       
Every year more than 600,000 people buy fishing licenses in Colorado. The state offers a wide variety of angling opportunities. Anglers can fish at warm- and cold-water lakes and reservoirs, in numerous big rivers, and in alpine streams and lakes. Every year, fishing in Colorado generates about $1.2 billion in economic benefits.
       
The DOW requests that angler comments be received by the end of April.
 
The DOW is also asking for comments from fishing organizations, sportsmen’s groups; water resource managers including ditch companies, conservancy districts, and state and federal government agencies; land management agencies, local governments and private landowners; and businesses and communities that have an economic stake in fishing activity.
       
In addition to specific suggestions for individual waters, the DOW also wants to hear suggestions on statewide "big picture" issues.
       
"Colorado has very active associations that are concerned about specific species, such as bass, walleye and trout. We want to hear from those groups. But it’s also important for us to receive comments from individual anglers to get a balance of opinions," Gerlich said.
       
After receiving input from anglers and an internal review, draft regulations will be prepared by July and presented for more public comment. The draft regulations will be sent to the wildlife commission in September for review; more public comment will be allowed at that time. New regulations will be adopted formally in November.
 
The Colorado Division of Wildlife is divided into four regions: northeast, northwest, southeast and southwest. Aquatic biologists in each region are responsible for maintaining waters.
 
Comments on regulations can be submitted to:
Dave Chadwick, statewide issues, (303)291-7174, dave.chadwick@state.co.us; Southwest Region, John Alves, (719)587-6907, john.alves@state.co.us; Northwest Region, Sherman Hebein, (970)255-6186, sherman.hebein@state.co.us; Southeast Region, Doug Krieger, (719)227-5202, doug.krieger@state.co.us; Northeast Region, Ken Kehmeier, (970)291-4350. ken.kehmeier@state.co.us.
 
 
  

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DENVER, Colo.–With winter nipping at Colorado, skeins of waterfowl are migrating through the state. Along with flocks of other diving ducks, observant hunters and waterfowl enthusiasts may be lucky to discern a handsome black and white diver with a striking yellow eye – the Barrows goldeneye.

The Barrows goldeneye, one of two similar ducks to visit Colorado during migration, is the avian ambassador featured on this year’s Colorado Waterfowl Collector Stamp, which is now available for collectors.

Award-winning Wisconsin wildlife artist Craig Fairbert’s vivid portrait captures a Barrows goldeneye drake and hen resting amid autumn leaves on a mossy rock in fast water. Fairbert’s "Golden Colorado" bested the work of 36 other wildlife artists to secure the highly coveted spot on this year’s stamp.    

"The 2009 Colorado Waterfowl Stamp is truly one-of-a-kind," said Brian Sullivan, DOW wetlands coordinator.  "Hunters and collectors alike will appreciate the amazing detail and design of this year’s stamp. It will make a great addition to anyone’s collection."

Each year, the Colorado Waterfowl Stamp program holds a contest for original waterfowl artwork to be depicted on the collector waterfowl stamp. Stamps and a print of the stamp are created for sale to waterfowl and wetland enthusiasts, bird watchers, and stamp/collectors. The funds are used for wetland projects that benefit ducks, geese, shorebirds and other wetland-dependent wildlife species.

Since its inception in 1990, the Colorado Waterfowl Stamp program has raised $6.7 million to help restore and protect more than 19,500 acres of critical waterfowl habitat.  Additional funding from Ducks Unlimited and other partners has leveraged stamp resources to improve public waterfowl hunting opportunities and habitat throughout Colorado.  Many habitat improvement projects have been conducted on state wildlife areas.  Historically, some funds have also been used to improve important nesting areas in Canada known to produce the majority of Colorado’s migrant ducks.

"Loss of habitat is the single greatest threat to waterfowl," said Sullivan.  "Participation in the stamp program by hunters and non-hunters alike is an effective way to contribute to this important conservation effort and ensure the long-term protection of Colorado’s waterfowl and wetland resources."

All hunters age 16 or older must purchase a Colorado Waterfowl Stamp to hunt waterfowl in Colorado.  The stamp fee is $5 and has not increased since the program’s inception in 1990.  Hunters receive electronic stamps to validate their small game licenses, but they may also request traditional "gum-back" collector stamps, featuring Fairbert’s artwork.  Gum-back stamps will be mailed to hunters upon request. Beginning mid-December 2009, a $2.50 fee will be charged to cover the mailing and processing of the gum-back stamps.

For collectors, the 2009 waterfowl stamp/art print, as well as stamps and art prints from previous years, are available through the Colorado Wildlife Heritage Foundation.  Prints and stamps make great holiday gifts and can be purchased online (www.cwhf.info/shopOnline/index.asp) or by contacting Terrie DeLoria at: (terrie.Deloria@cwhf.info) 

For more information about artist Craig Fairbert and to view the 2009 stamp, please visit: http://wildlife.state.co.us/Hunting/Waterfowl/WaterfowlStampProgram/ColoradoWaterfowlStampWinners.htm
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