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The National Park Service (NPS) launched a website today that features an "on-line" exhibit. Titled 9/11/01 The Meaning Of National Parks in Times of Crises, the site provides access to personal accounts of park visitors and employees both on and following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. The site--whose address is www.nps.gov/remembrance--also invites its virtual visitors to comment on their current reflections about the value of National Parks in their lives today.

The site features some 20 interviews from an NPS oral history project that recorded the experiences and perspectives of employees who responded to the attacks and their aftermath at 12 sites in New York, Washington and around the country. In announcing the new website, NPS director Fran Mainella stated, "The National Park Service and our partners, the National Park Foundation and Eastern National want everyone to explore the memories of our workers and visitors -- and add personal comments and reactions."

"These parks and their people, the rangers, gardeners, police, secretaries, and more, will always carry the memory of September 11. Our visitors, at parks both near and far have shared their ideas of why and how they value the parks and the people who serve them. The message of September 11 is not only of loss. September 11 speaks of courage, determination and perseverance," she said.

The design and creation of the on-line exhibit is made possible through a grant from The National Park Foundation (NPF) to the Recovery and Remembrance Fund (Fund). "As we all continue to deal with our grief from the tragedy of September 11 in different ways, it is helpful to remember that National Parks can serve as special places for solitude, reflection and comfort," said Jim Maddy, president of the National Park Foundation. ""Now more than ever, National Parks have a special role to play in our lives, and connecting Americans to these special places through this web site is a role the National Park Foundation is pleased to play."

In addition to the web site, the Fund has underwritten the collection of the website's featured material, including the oral history project. It is managed by Eastern National, a nonprofit educational organization serving America's national parks and other public trusts. "Soon after 9/11,it was apparent that NPS staff and visitors had been deeply affected by what happened," said Eastern National President Chesley Moroz. "We established the Recovery and Remembrance Fund to document the oral histories of the park employees who witnessed and have supported the 9-11-01 recovery efforts and to create educational programs about the September 11th events and the involvement of national parks. Thanks to the generosity of the National Park Foundation and a number of organizations and individuals, we are pleased that the Fund was able to underwrite this important project," she said.

Featured parks include Federal Hall National Memorial, which on 9/11/01 served as a safe haven for some 250 people fleeing from the falling debris and choking dust caused by the collapse of the World Trade Center. Others are: The Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and Gateway in New York City; parks of metropolitan Washington, D.C.; Western Pennsylvania area parks; Fort McHenry (MD); Independence (PA); Shenandoah (VA); Mount Rainier (WA); Manzanar (CA); Yosemite (CA); and Golden Gate (CA).

Visitors to the website experience the ways these national park areas and their staffs and visitors responded to the events of 9/11 and its aftermath. The project also documents visitors talking about their sense of a heightened value of parks since the attacks. The website links to a number of related sites including the Official Flight 93 Website, The September 11 Digital Archive, and Museums Celebrate America's Freedoms.

The site uses the impact of the medium to present sound, video, and static displays. s2n Media of New York, which has done website development for a wide range of commercial and government clients, including the Smithsonian and the National Science Foundation, was contracted to create the site. The design team has obtained permission to incorporate post 9-11 news footage of parks and visitors from disparate places throughout the National Park System.

The NPS considers the website a work in progress and hopes that visitors will be inspired to share their stories and comments in the Remembrance section of the site . The goal is to allow people from around the United States and the world to contribute to the project and to incorporate their contributions into future exhibits and publications.

National park vacations continue to be popular with travelers from around the world, and many people plan their national park vacations well in advance of their travel date. That doesn't mean, however, that a national park vacation is out of the question for last-minute travelers. In fact, by following a few simple suggestions, any traveler can enjoy an affordable and memorable vacation in one the country's most spectacular settings, even with as little as 24 hours' notice. "People have become so accustomed to planning their national park vacations far in advance that they are often forced to change their travel dates or cancel their reservations entirely," said Andrew N. Todd, president and CEO of Amfac Parks & Resorts, the largest park and resort management company in the U.S. "That's good news for last-minute vacationers. With a little bit of persistence and flexibility, these travelers can often successfully find accommodations at the national park of their choice." Todd offers these tips for planning a national park vacation. 1. Be a bargain-hunter. National Park vacations are a great value, and prices at lodges, restaurants and gift shops inside the parks are often lower than prices at facilities outside the parks. Visitors can find great bargains on popular items such a s Black Hills Gold at the Mount Rushmore National Memorial gift shop and Native American jewelry at the award-winning Hopi House gift shop at the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. 2. Be flexible. Because people make their plans so far in advance, they often call back with changes. In fact, half of all calls to Amfac Parks & Resorts' reservations center are to change or cancel existing reservations. Be as flexible as possible w ith travel dates and choice of lodging and you stand a better chance of getting a room on short notice. 3. Be persistent. Room availability is constantly changing, so make frequent calls to the Amfac reservations center to check on the situation at your park of choice. 4. Be timely. Room blocks are released 30 and 21 days prior to arrival. Even if a lodge or hotel has been sold out for months, travelers can often secure rooms when these blocks open up. 5. Be patient. Reservations agents typically handle many calls in a day, so you may have to wait a few moments for an available agent. 6. Be informed. Visit Amfac's web site at http://www.amfac.com for general information on the parks as well as lodging descriptions, rates and availability. Amfac Parks & Resorts operates lodges, restaurants and other concessions at Grand Canyon National Park, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Yellowstone National Park, Death Valley National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, Petrified Forest National Park and Everglades National Park. In addition, the company manages resorts in Napa, Calif.; Saratoga Springs, N.Y.; Nebraska City, Neb.; and at eight Ohio State Parks and three North Georgia State Parks. For reservations at national park lodges other than Yellowstone, call (1) 303-297-2757 or visit Amfac's web site at http://www.amfac.com. Reservations at Yellowstone can be made by calling (1) 307-344-7311 or visiting its web site at http://www.ynp-lodges.com. © 1998 Mesereau Public Relations

Colorado Division of Wildlife Weekly Fishing Report April 18, 2007

Colorado anglers have been finding plenty of encouragement in lakes and streams across the state, but also some reminders that springtime fishing, with rapidly changing conditions, remains a day-to-day thing.

Most rivers still are in a pre-runoff mode, and many have been fishing very well. The Roaring Fork, Arkansas and Poudre have been flowing clear, with just a tinge of discoloration during warm weather. Even the Colorado, known as “Old Muddy” among some old-timers, has been fishable downstream as far as Rifle during cooler periods and the lower Gunnison as far as its Smith Fork tributary is a characteristic “Gunnison Green” and attractive for fishing.

On the downside, the Yampa and its Elk River tributary have been affected by runoff, and the White has been running clear or cloudy depending on the weather.

Tailwaters, the sections of a river directly below a dam, remain clear, and with the annual runoff looming on most free-flowing streams, will be the best clear-water option into the early summer.

Springtime hatches include midges, blue-wing-olive mayflies and possibly some small stoneflies. Caddis will be appearing soon - but so will the runoff.

Local inquiry before traveling to a river always is advisable, and with the rapidly changing conditions of spring, it becomes especially important. Most fly-fishing shops cheerfully provide conditions updates via telephone, and many post them on their Web sites.

Lake fishermen also have been finding a mixed bag. Good early season trout fishing is reported on the recently thawed North Park lakes, on Elevenmile Reservoir in South Park and Wolford Mountain Reservoir in Middle Park. Spinney Mountain Reservoir, with its traditional opening day falling on Easter Sunday this year, has been something of a disappointment, however.

Lake-trout fishermen have been doing fairly well in Twin Lakes and the Mount Elbert Forebay above the lakes. Granby and Blue Mesa reservoirs offer other options for mackinaw.

Though ice still covers some higher-elevation waters, good opportunities can be found on many smaller, less-popular lakes. Those include Lake Avery in northwest Colorado, Vega Reservoir near Collbran, Tarryall and Skaguay reservoirs in the central part of the state, and Monument and North lakes in the south.

Through the quirks of April weather patterns, warm-water fishing may have been affected the most. About the time the wipers, crappie and walleyes appear to be turning on, another cold front moves in and slows things down again.

Even so, spring has arrived, and fishing opportunities abound. Just keep an eye on the weather and be ready for almost anything.

WALLEYE SPAWN TAKING

With the annual walleye spawn-taking operation nearly complete, Colorado Division of Wildlife personnel and volunteers have gathered more than 110 million eggs from brood reservoirs. Pueblo Reservoir led the way, with more than 70 million, Chatfield Reservoir produced almost 18 million, Cherry Creek added more than 15 million, with more expected, and Carter Lake produced about 7 million.

Fertilized eggs have been taken to DOW hatcheries to produce fry. The young fish will be stocked into suitable waters soon afterward.

In a change from recent years, all the eggs will be used to produce walleyes. Because of issues with obtaining sauger milt from other states, none will be used for making saugeyes, hybrids that have fared well in certain waters.

WIPER EXPRESS

Fishing for wipers should remain good into the future with the arrival this week of 5 million baby wipers from Texas. The wiper fry arrived via Fed Ex, to be stocked almost immediately into designated lakes in eastern Colorado.

STOCKING UNDER WAY

With the arrival spring, the Colorado Division of Wildlife’s hatchery trucks are rolling. Catchable-sized trout have been stocked in low-elevation waters including many urban ponds. Periodic stocking in low-elevation waters will continue through late spring, when many of the lakes become too warm for trout.

As the ice recedes, higher-elevation waters will be stocked. Stocking of designated waters will continue through the summer.

In addition to catchable trout, the DOW also stocks thousands of smaller trout on a put-to-grow basis in suitable waters. Many Alpine lakes are stocked from the air with newly hatched cutthroat trout, and an extensive warm-water program places walleye fry and other species in lowland waters.

REGULATIONS CHANGES

The Colorado Wildlife Commission recently approved some changes to the fishing regulations that are not included in the 2007 fishing brochure. They go into effect May 1.

On the lower Blue River, catch-and-release provisions were enacted from Green Mountain Dam to the Colorado River. On the upper Blue and its Swan River tributary, long-standing closures in the fall to protect spawning brown trout from Dillon Reservoir have been removed.

On the lower Gunnison River, through the Black Canyon and Gunnison Gorge, a slot limit protecting brown trout has been dropped. Flies-and-lures restrictions have been extended on the Gunnison from the North Fork confluence to Austin. Anglers there also have to release all rainbow trout.

Flies-and-lures and catch-and-release provisions were extended to the Poudre River through Gateway Park downstream to the North Fork confluence.

Quality fishing regulations were enacted for Johnstown Reservoir. A 15-inch minimum-size provision applies to walleye/saugeyes and bass, and a 10-inch minimum to crappie.

Artificial flies-and-lures fishing with a catch-and-release provision for bass were approved for the Bald Eagle Pond in St. Vrain State Park

All visitors to state wildlife areas must have a habitat stamp, whether or not they are fishing or hunting. The stamps cost $5 and are required on the first two hunting or fishing licenses bought by people aged 19-64 in a calendar year. The stamps cost $10 without a license, and are required to use state wildlife areas for wildlife viewing or other purposes besides hunting or fishing. Lifetime stamps are available for $200. People under 19 and over 64 are not required to have the stamps.

ANTERO RESERVOIR STATUS

The reservoir remains closed until further notice. In late February it was 86 percent full and likely will fill this summer. Some brown, rainbow, brook and cutthroat trout and fingerling splake were stocked last summer in hopes that they would survive the winter. If that happened, additional fish will be stocked and an opening date will be announced. If winter losses were significant, the reservoir may not open in 2007.

Body of water Location

Arvada Reservoir Arvada

Aurora Reservoir Aurora

Barr Lake Brighton

Bear Creek Reservoir SW of Denver

Berkeley Lake Denver

Brighton City Park Lake Brighton

Chatfield Reservoir Littleton

Cherry Creek Reservoir Aurora

Clay Creek Pond E of Lamar

Corn Lake Clifton

Douglas Reservoir Wellington

Flatiron Reservoir NW of Berthoud

Frantz Lake NW of Salida

Fruita State Park Pond Fruita

Green Mtn. Falls Lake Green Mountain Falls

Harper Lake Louisville

Hasty Lake E of Las Animas

Island Acres Lake NE of Palisade

Las Animas Pond Las Animas

Denver Metro

Arvada Reservoir -- Shoreline fishing for trout remains fairly good on worms and salmon eggs. The recent unsettled weather largely has discouraged boat fishermen. Only electric motors are permitted for boating. Belly boats may not be used.
Aurora Reservoir -- The water temperature is 46 degrees. Trout fishing is fair to good. Night crawlers, eggs and Power Bait have worked best from the dam, Marina Bay and east shore. Trolling slowly with perch- and rainbow-colored Rapalas has worked for some. Walleye action is fair to good using tube jigs and Rapalas from the west end of the dam. Not many reports have come in from boaters on walleyes. All other species are slow or no reports. The limit for trout is two fish. Boating is restricted to electric motors only.
Barr Lake -- The trout have been hitting strong on minnows and orange Power Bait. The catfish are starting to warm up; use a large dead shiner off the bottom late in the afternoon. The boat ramp is open and the dock is in place.
Bear Creek -- Flows may be high and the water off-color. Find deep, slow holes and use a bright-colored San Juan worm or egg pattern.
Bear Creek Reservoir -- Fishing in the reservoir has been slow because of high runoff and cloudy water. Some rainbows have been caught on worms and orange or green Power Bait.
Berkeley Lake -- The 40-acre lake is stocked with catchable-sized trout in the spring, and the trout provide most of the early season action. The lake also has largemouth bass, bluegills crappie and channel catfish, among other warm-water species. Fishing for those improves as the water warms. Boats are not permitted. A recreation center, playground and other amenities are available on the south side of the lake.
Centennial Park Lake -- The lake is stocked with catchable-sized trout in the spring. The lake also has a variety of warm-water fish, including bass, crappie, catfish and perch. No boats are allowed on the 15-acre lake. A playground, restrooms and handicapped-accessible fishing pier are available.
Chatfield Ponds -- Using minnows, you may pick up a few crappie. The bass seem to be the catch here lately; use a jig tipped with a minnow and work it back slowly.
Chatfield Reservoir -- Walk up the South Platte River inlet approximately 100 yards. The walleyes are holding in the deep pockets. Use Curly Tail jigs after dark to find the big ones.
Cherry Creek Reservoir -- Trolling Rapalas or Rat-L-Traps has been a favorite way to locate the walleyes. Shore fishermen are using worms to catch trout around the swim beach.
Clear Creek (above Hwy. 119) -- The river may be running high. Find deep pools and undercut banks. Use small Pheasant Tails or small Gold-Ribbed-Hare's Ears. A WD-40 pattern is not a bad pick, either.
Clear Lake -- At last report the lake still had ice of questionable thickness. The lake south of Georgetown off the Guanella Pass road has catchable-sized rainbow trout and also some brook trout and a few browns. Fishing can be fairly good on a variety of baits and lures, but success largely depends on periodic stocking. The north shore often is the best location. No boats are permitted on the lake.
Evergreen Lake -- Finding trout can be pretty easy here. Use a yellow Woolly Bugger, and don’t overlook the tailwater just below the dam.
Georgetown Lake -- Fishermen using night crawlers have been cleaning up on small trout. Some larger fish, upward of 18 inches, reportedly have been caught on Rapalas.
Gross Reservoir -- The inlet is the place to be. People using gold Kastmasters or Krocodiles are doing best.
Jim Baker Reservoir -- Recently stocked trout have been getting smarter. Use smaller lures such as Super Dupers or small flies.
Ketring Park Lake -- The 15-acre lake is open and has a variety of mostly small warm-water fish. The action has been slow. Boats are not allowed.
Main Lake -- The fluctuating 45-acre lake has bass up to 18 inches, crappie, bluegills, catfish and other warm-water species. Fishing has been slow but will improve with warmer water temperatures. No boats are allowed on the lake.
Quincy Reservoir -- The water temperature is 50 degrees. The water level has come up some more. Trout fishing is fair using Woolly Buggers, bead-head Prince Nymphs and Hare's Ears. Spinners and spoons are also producing some action. Bass fishing has been fair to good using jigs, spinnerbaits and crankbaits from the coves and off the dam. Some smallmouths have been caught from the dam. Perch fishing is slow to fair. Quincy Reservoir is restricted to fishing with artificial flies and lures. Please see the definition of artificial in the Colorado Division of Wildlife's fishing regulations booklet. The limit for trout at Quincy is two. Bass must be at least 18 inches to keep. All boats must be hand-launched. Electric motors only! For more information, call 303-693-5463.
Rocky Mountain Lake -- The water's still a little cold for bluegills, but before long you won't be able to keep them off your hook. Look for a steady run of warm weather, then hit it.
Sloans Lake -- Trout fishing has been slow but will improve as the water heats up.
Smith Reservoir -- Warm-water fishing has been poor to fair. The 45-acre lake has crappie, bass, bluegills, catfish and perch. Its largemouth and smallmouth bass provide potentially good fishing well into the summer. No boats are allowed on the lake.
South Platte River (Waterton Canyon) -- The river often is discolored, possibly as a lingering effect from last year's flooding above Deckers, making fishing difficult. The section from Strontia Springs Dam downstream to 300 yards above the Marston diversion structure is restricted to artificial flies and lures and offers the best fishing. The most effective lures for spin-fishermen often are small Panther Martins, Mepps or Blue Fox spinners. Night crawlers usually are the most effective bait in the unrestricted lower stretch.
Standley Lake -- The lake is at capacity and the water temperature has been in the low 50s. Trout, some of decent size, have provided virtually all the early season action. Power Bait and salmon eggs fished off the bottom from shore continue to be the most effective. The lake will open to boating on May 1. A $6 fee is required to enter the north parking area. Walk-in access is free. For more information contact the Standley Lake Visitor Center at 303-425-1097.
Washington Park Lakes -- The lakes are stocked with trout in the spring. Crappie running up to 10 inches, bass, bluegills and catfish can provide some interesting fishing in an urban-park setting later, as the water warms. Try a small Fly jig or live minnow below a bobber about 3 feet down for crappie, among the first warm-water fish to become active in the spring.
Webster Lake -- The lake is stocked with catchable-sized trout in spring and early summer and fishing for them usually is good. For catching channel catfish on liver baits, night crawlers and stink baits, with the best activity in the evenings. The lake also has channel catfish bass, perch and crappie. Warm-water fishing will improve with gradually warming water. No boats are allowed. A handicapped-access fishing pier, playground and other facilities are available.

Northeast

Barker Reservoir -- The ice is currently retreating from the edge of the lake, which will provide some early angling opportunities from the north shore. Spring is the best time to catch trout at Barker Reservoir, using worms, salmon eggs, and lures. The water level is low.
Barnes Meadow Reservoir -- Barnes Meadow is still iced over. Melt-off usually occurs between the end of April to the end of May. Ice fishing has been productive this winter, with a few 12- to 15-inch cutbows caught daily. At ice-off Power Baits, spinnerbaits and Kastmasters, as well as fly fishing, will work well.
Bellaire Lake -- At last report the lake had unsafe ice.
Big Creek Lakes -- The lakes remain frozen and inaccessible. Ice-out typically occurs in mid to late May.
Big Thompson Ponds -- No recent reports, but the ponds were affected by a winter kill, resulting in a loss of fish. Fishing could be slow this year.
Big Thompson River -- The river is running at 84.8 cfs and fishing well. With the weather front moving in this week, blue-wing-olives might make their appearance for dry fly fishing. Blue-wing-olive nymphs are heavy in the river, and size 18-20 Pheasant Tails, BH Baetis, Green Machines and Pickpockets in olive/brown are a great choice. For BWO dries, a Parachute Adams, BWO Thorax or BWO Hatchmaster are good bets, but expect more hits on the nymph. For spin-fishing, Mepps and Panther Martins will work well. In the non catch-and-release section, salmon eggs are an ideal bait to use. Inquire in Estes Park for more details.
Boedecker Reservoir -- Bass are hitting spinnerbaits fished close to the shoreline at dusk. Black jigs fished slowly have also picked up a few.
Boulder Reservoir -- Walleyes are spawning. Anglers have had some success catching walleyes with black or chartreuse jigs, or crankbaits. Worms work well for smallmouth bass. Fishing should continue to pick up as the water warms up.
Boyd Lake -- The water is low and the shoreline muddy. Consequently, Heron Cove and the main boat ramp are temporarily closed. No fishing is allowed within 50 feet of any dock. Fishermen are beginning to catch some crappie along with trout, especially near the Greeley intake. Trolling from float tubes and other hand-carried craft has produced a few walleyes as well as trout. Carp are in shallow water and in an aggressive pre-spawn mode. They will readily hit a variety of flies and jigs. No drive-in access points to the water are available.
Carter Reservoir -- Fishing is improving daily. Trout fishing is great using Power Bait and small spoons. Walleye fishing is also improving. Some impressive walleyes were seen during spawning operations and post-spawn feeding frenzies should be on soon. Bass fishing still is slow. The docks and slips make excellent areas to fish for bass.
Chambers Lake -- The lake is covered with unsafe ice. Fishing for rainbow trout and mackinaw usually is very good right after ice-out. This usually occurs between the end of April and the end of May.
Cowdrey Lake -- Ice-off is well under way and Cowdrey should be completely open within the next week. No angler reports have come in, but the eager ones who get there first probably will have great success. Try small leech patterns, crayfish, Chironomids, and scuds.
Douglas Reservoir -- Trout have been hitting Power Bait fished with a slide sinker. Rat-L-Traps trolled from a boat are picking up the larger fish. The level remains low but about a foot of water extends over the end of the ramp, so launching is possible. The water temperature last weekend was 45 degrees.
Dowdy Lake (Red Feather) -- Fish around the edges with a gold Kastmaster. Fish slowly; the water is pretty cold.
East Delaney Lake -- The ice is completely gone and the lake is fishing well. The west side has been best for anglers fishing from shore. Try crayfish patterns, scuds, egg patterns, and midges in red and black. Trout typically feed vigorously after ice-out and will take a variety of presentations. Fishing is by artificial flies and lures only, and the limit is two trout. Brown trout of 14-20 inches must be released immediately, and rainbows and cutthroats of 18-22 inches must be returned to the water. A habitat stamp is required to use the state wildlife area.
Estes Lake -- Lake Estes is turning on and the fishing has been good. For fly fishing, try using midges in size 18-22 for surface activity in the mornings and evenings. However, your best bet is fishing in the inlet with Woolly Buggers and egg patterns. Fish are moving up out of the lake to spawn and some larger than average fish can be caught in the inlet this time of year. For spin fishing, try flashy lures and bait (especially eggs at the inlet). Fishing around the lake can be good with a worm, egg or Power Bait, as well.
Flatiron Reservoir -- Fishing is good using most methods. Flatiron recently was stocked.
Hidden Lakes -- The lakes are frozen and accessible only by snowmobile.
Hohnholz Lakes -- Lakes No. 2 has open water. Use chartreuse Power Bait off the bottom, or you can't go wrong with a fat night crawler. Fly fishermen are using No. 14 Prince Nymphs and black Woolly Buggers.
Horsetooth Reservoir -- Recent weather patterns have cooled fishing off a bit. Some nice rainbows are still being caught in the Inlet Bay and South Bay areas. The points off the western coves have shown some action for walleyes. Most have been in the Inlet Bay area, and a few off points up around Satanka Cove. The best bet for success is minnows or night crawlers, but suspended jerkbaits have been successful, as well. The Inlet Channel is closed to fishing through May 31. All walleyes must be at least 18 inches long, but only one can exceed 21 inches
Jackson Reservoir -- Cold fronts will dramatically change fishing conditions. If a cold front moves in, the fishing will deteriorate. Consequently, fishing through last weekend was poor. The lake is clear and full and open to boating. Be aware of unmarked hazards. The fishing should pick up again with warmer temperatures. Barring these extreme cold fronts, fishing should be good until late June, when warmer water sends the fish deep.
Joe Wright Reservoir -- The lake remains ice-covered.
Jumbo Reservoir -- The reservoir is full. Spring stocking placed 17,000 catchable-size rainbow trout into the reservoir in an attempt to rebuild the fishery after the lake dried up last year. Some trout are being caught from the bank on Power Bait, spinners and night crawlers. Walleye fry, catfish and crappie will be added shortly, but fishing for warm-water species will be extremely slow this year. Boat ramps are in the water. Visitors and boaters are being asked to avoid the waterfowl and shorebirds using the reservoir. Many of these birds are in the process of nesting and harassment is illegal. Some people are having success catching largemouth bass from the dam on the Jumbo Annex Reservoir. A habitat stamp is required to enter Jumbo and the Jumbo Annex.
Lake John -- Lake John is 50 percent ice-free and should be wide open within a couple of days. Try throwing leeches, scuds, crayfish and eggs. Also, Tasmanian Devils, Kastmasters and Mepps Spinners. Early season fishing often is some of the best of the year. Inquire in Walden for the latest.
Laramie River at Hohnholz SWA -- The fishing has been slow because of the weather, but try small midges, chocolate WD-40s or No. 20 Flashback RS-2s.
Lon Hagler Reservoir -- Warm-water fishing remains slow. Fishermen have been catching mostly small trout.
Lonetree Reservoir -- A few walleyes have been taken recently, but with chilly weather and low water temperatures, fishing remains generally slow.
Long Draw Reservoir -- The lake usually remains frozen through April and the access road is opened around June 1.
Lost Lake (at Chambers) -- The lake remains ice-covered.
North Delaney Lake -- North Delaney is completely ice-free. Fishing has been fair to good. The water temperatures are still a little cold. Fishing has been good using scuds, black leeches, crayfish, Chironomids and eggs. Early fishing for larger than average rainbows and browns usually is good. The lake is designated Gold Medal Water, and special regulations apply. Fishing is by artificial flies and lures only. The limit is two trout. Brown trout of 14-20 inches must immediately be released. Rainbows and cutthroats of 18-22 inches must be returned to the water. Fishing is prohibited in the inlet upstream of the standing-water line and in the fall, from the dam. A habitat stamp is required to use the state wildlife area.
North Michigan Lake -- The lake remains ice-covered, but ice fishing is not recommended.
North Park Alpine Lakes -- The high lakes remain ice-covered and generally inaccessible.
North Park Streams -- The North Park streams are starting to fish well. All streams are a little high because of some early snow melt, but water temperatures have been good and fish seem very healthy. Try Woolly Buggers in bright colors (yellow, orange, red). Also try BWO dries and emergers, along with Gold-Ribbed Hare's Ears and Prince Nymphs. The Roaring Fork and North Fork have been fishing the best.
North Platte River -- The North Platte has been high and off-color. Recent flows have been around 483 cfs. Though the river is off-color it still is fishing well. No significant hatches are coming off at this time due to cold water temperatures. Anglers are doing well fishing toward the banks with big bright streamers. Look for hatches to start coming off any day. The water was about 44 degrees late last week, and midges and BWOs should appear any day. At high water, try fishing back eddies with big bright streamers such as Tequeely, Orange Blossom and Yellow Zonker flies.
North Sterling Reservoir -- The reservoir is almost full, and the inlet is still running. The water temperature remains about 50 degrees on the surface. Boaters and shore fishermen are catching walleyes around the south boat ramp and along the dam. Lots of walleye in the 16- to 19-inch range are being caught. Using cut bait in the inlet for catfish is still good, but recent winds have brought in some tumbleweeds to contend with.
Parvin Lake (Red Feather) -- Fishing with a black Woolly Bugger behind a bubble is a great way to hang a big brown trout. Look to the shallow water for tiger muskies.
Pinewood Reservoir -- Trout fishing is great. Fishermans Cove remains the most reliable spot. Salmon eggs and suspended night crawlers are working best. Pinewood recently was stocked with catchable trout.
Poudre River -- Prerunoff fishing has been fairly good. Recent flows have been around 100 cfs, and the river generally is clear. Midges and small brown stoneflies have been evident, and some Baetis mayflies have been hatching on warm, cloudy days. Nymphing with bead-head Pheasant Tails, Copper Johns, 20-Inchers and RS-2s has been the most effective approach. The upper reaches are open but the water is very cold, fish are sluggish and significant snow remains on the ground.
Prewitt Reservoir -- The reservoir is full and the inlet has been running at 80 cfs to offset the seepage loss. Fishing pressure has been light. Most people are fishing the inlet. Fishing is fair for wipers, catfish, and trout. Some walleyes reportedly have been caught, but so far none have been checked. Boats can be launched but the dock will not be in the water until late April or early May. A habitat stamp is required to enter Prewitt Reservoir.
Ranger Lakes -- Upper Ranger Lake was drained for dam repairs last year. It is expected to refill this year and will be stocked when spring arrives.
Rocky Mountain National Park -- Rocky Mountain National Park is opening up to fishing. Streams are iced-off for the most part, especially in open areas like the Moraine and Fall River. Hatches of little brown stoneflies (size 18) and midges (18-22) have been good on non-windy days, and blue-wing-olive, stonefly and midge nymph patterns will work well, too. Use similar sizes to the dries. Expect technical fishing this time of year, but the scenery will be great and fishing pressure is light. Spin fishing will take a few fish - go small and dark on your spinners. Check the regulations before you fish in the park because there are special-regulations areas, and bait fishing is restricted to kids in selected areas. Inquire in Estes Park for more details.
Seeley Lake -- The largemouth bass are starting to become more active with nicer weather. Use black jigs tipped with a minnow to get a strike. They are hitting softly, so be ready.
Seymour Reservoir -- The lake remains mostly frozen.
Simpson Ponds -- Fishing for crappie and a few bass had been fair, but cold weather has slowed things down
Slack Weiss Reservoir -- No current report.
South Delaney Lake -- The lake is completely ice-free. Fishing has been great. Try scuds, leeches, midges, Chironomids, eggs and water boatmen. The fish are spawning, so please be careful when handling them. Fishermen may use only artificial flies or lures, and the limit is two trout. Brown trout of 14-20 inches must be returned to the water immediately, and rainbows and cutthroats of 18-22 inches also must be released. Fishing is prohibited in the inlet upstream of the standing-water line. A habitat stamp is required of everyone using the state wildlife area. Inquire in Walden for the latest.
St. Vrain River -- Flows on the Vrain are at 140 cfs at Lyons and 12 at Allenspark. Blue-wing-olive mayfly activity has been good with a size 18 BWO Thorax, Hatchmaster or Parachute Adams being a good choice. Nymphs such as Pheasant Tails, Pickpockets, Hotwires or BH Baetis are other good choices, all in size 18-20. Caddis are starting to move around and an Elk Hair Caddis in size 16-18 can make a good searching pattern for a dry-and-dropper rig. Spinners such as Mepps or Panther Martins will work well with the increased current.
Teal and Tiago Lakes -- The lakes still have ice, but ice fishing is not recommended.
Union Reservoir (Calkins) -- The recent weather has slowed the wiper fishing. Trout are being caught on worms and other typical baits. The reservoir continues to fill and water temperatures are at 50 degrees.
Watson Lake -- Fishing for trout is the best bet right now. Use a yellow Matuka or a Hornberg behind a bobber. Fish slowly and be prepared for a hit.
Wellington Reservoir #4 -- Salmon eggs have been producing trout close to shore around dark. Early in the day and late in the evening seem to be the best times.

Northwest

Blue River (below Green Mountain Reservoir) -- Recent flows below Green Mountain Dam consistently have been around 344 cfs. Egg patterns and Barr's Emergers have been taking some fish in the canyon section. A catch-and-release provision goes into effect May 1 for the river from Green Mountain Dam to the Colorado River. The river holds its share of trout, but through much of this section courses through private property.
Blue River (Dillon to Green Mtn. Res.) -- Flow from Dillon Reservoir remain at 113 cfs but with the reservoir almost full, might soon be going up. Good midday midge hatches in the tail-water section have dominated the fishing action. Brook Sprouts, Para-Adams, Gifffiths Gnats, all in size 24-26 have been working well. Also, nymphing with Mysis Shrimp, midge or Baetis emergers, eggs, and San Juan Worms has been effective if the water is off-color. Downstream, near the mouth of the river at Green Mountain Reservoir, the fishing action has been hot. Nymph with anything red - San Juan Worms, eggs, Copper Johns, Disco Midges. Many Rainbows are staged at the mouth of the river beginning the spawning run. Please do not fish for actively spawning fish or wade in the spawning redds!
Colorado River (below Parshall) -- Flows at Parshall, below the Williams Fork confluence, were at 159 cfs on Tuesday, and near Kremmling, the volume was 640 cfs. Water clarity has been a day-to-day thing. Midges have been active in the afternoons, and midge and Baetis patterns have been taking some fish. Larger nymph patterns still may take some trout on days with lower visibility into the water.
Colorado River (Glenwood to Rifle) -- Cooler weather the past week has helped clear up the Colorado below Glenwood Springs. The current river flow is around 2,260 cfs. Fishing has resumed in a big way the past few days now that the river is green in color. Solid nymph fishing with sporadic periods of dry fly fishing activity are available. Look for hatches of BWOs, caddis, midges and brown stoneflies. Streamer fishing is picking up, especially for float fisherman. Fish the river now while it's clear. Hot fly patterns include: Princes, 20 Inchers, Red CJs, Biot Baetis, Sparklewing RS-2s, STDs, BLMs, Pearl and Elk Caddis, Stimulators, King Kongs, Stingin' Sculpins and Autumn Splendors.
Colorado River (near Granby) -- The winter fishing season was very good in the Williams Fork and Colorado rivers. The spring season is in full swing. Recent flow rates have been: Williams Fork (below reservoir/near Parshall), 37cfs/118cfs; Windy Gap 122 cfs. Some murky conditions, as usual, exist. However, fishing San Juan worms and egg patterns is highly effective (Steak & Egg flies are deadly). Many nymph patterns, Woolly Buggers and other streamers also work. In the immediate Granby area and downstream to the bridge at the west end of Byers Canyon, bait fishing is permitted and two fish may be kept. Inquire in Granby for the latest conditions.
Crystal River -- The Crystal River currently is heavily discolored and not fishable. Recent flows have been at 294 cfs in Carbondale. As the river clears, general attractor nymphs in sizes 12-18 such as Princes, Copper Johns, 20-Inchers, Tungstones, BLMs, STDs and Pheasant Tails will fish well. Look for some larger spawning rainbows to show up on the lower river near Carbondale in the next few weeks.
Elk River -- The runoff has begun. The water is high and very discolored. Fishing at best is difficult.
Fryingpan River -- The Frying Pan is currently flowing at 92 cfs below Ruedi Reservoir. Fishing overall has been exceptional lately with good hatches of blue- wing-olives and midges. Some sporadic caddis are hatching along the river, also. Look for the best dry fly fishing to take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Light tippets of 7x and 8x are crucial when dry fly fishing. Mysis shrimp fishing has tapered off with the lower water levels, though still will be of importance in the top 100 yards below the dam. Hot flies include: CDC Baetis, Perfect Baetis, Morgan's Midge, Bill's Midge Emerger, Poxyback Baetis, Sparklewing RS-2s and Johnny Flashes.
Granby Reservoir -- Ice conditions are rapidly deteriorating. An early runoff and warm weather are softening the ice. Streams flowing into the lake are beginning to produce open water, especially in Rainbow Bay, where water pumped from Willow Creek Reservoir is breaking up the ice. Fishing these areas as the ice recedes will be some of the best of the entire year. Spinners, Rapalas, slip-bobber rigs, bottom fishing and lateral jigging techniques all produce fish. Ice fishing this winter was very good, and many large lake trout were caught. Inquire in Granby for the latest conditions.
Grand Lake -- The ice continues to recede and some boat access already is available. Fishing this deep, natural lake takes research, learning and experience but it can be highly rewarding. Spinners, Rapalas, vertical jigging, fly fishing, trolling and bait fishing all can produce brown trout, rainbows, large lake trout and kokanee. Boat access between Grand Lake and Shadow Mountain Reservoir is possible. Inquire in Granby for updates.
Green Mountain Reservoir -- Early in the week the lake was almost 90 percent ice-free. Early season usually is a good time for mackinaw, but the shoreline tends to be muddy. U.S. Forest Service campground closures have made access more difficult. Fly fishermen have enjoyed fairly good success for rainbow trout around the inlet.
Harvey Gap Reservoir -- The fishing is picking up and doing well. A lot of reports have come in of crappie, trout and perch being caught. Most anglers have been using spinners and jigs. The hot spots for fishing have been at the dam and by the boat ramp.
Highline Lake -- Highline Lake is free of ice and the water temperature is about 55 degrees. Water was turned into Highline on March 29, so the level is at capacity and the lake already is spilling. Both boat ramps are open. Use caution on the east ramp because of a buildup of silt and debris from the inlet. Highline has been stocked twice with a total of 10,000 Rainbow Trout. Spinners are still the bait of choice. No word yet on bass or crappie. Highline is open for boating. Fishing is best early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The largest trout are being caught at the dam and off of the pier at the west boat ramp.
Lake Avery -- The ice is gone. Fishing pressure has been light, but some early season anglers have had success on rainbow-finish Panther Martin spinners, salmon eggs and worms.
Mack Mesa Lake -- Mack Mesa is free of ice and the water temperature is about 55 degrees. Mack has been stocked three times this spring, with a total of 6,000 rainbow trout. Fishing has been excellent. Almost everyone is catching a limit. Many trout have been around 17 inches. People have had great success using Power Bait of any color. With 6,000 trout in the lake, they should be biting on just about anything. Still no word on the bass. Mack Mesa is restricted to hand-propelled craft or boats with small, electric trolling motors.
Muddy Creek -- Flows below Wolford Mountain Reservoir have been around 20 cfs. The water is clear and cold, and midge patterns may interest a few trout.
Pearl Lake -- Pearl Lake is totally iced-over. For up-to-date reports, please check the conditions page at www.parks.state.co.us/pearl lake
Rifle Gap Reservoir -- Conditions are great at Rifle Gap. The lake is free of ice and full. The boat ramp is accessible. Early trout fishing from the bank has been good on Power Bait and worms. Boating fishermen have taken some northern pike by trolling large Rapalas and similar lures, or gold or silver spoons. Some yellow perch have been taken on jigs fished near the bottom near the island. No walleyes have been reported yet.
Rio Blanco Lake -- The lake is free of ice, but few fishermen have been on the water. The lake has crappie and northern pike, which typically become active early in the season.
Roaring Fork River -- The Roaring Fork has been the hot spot in the Aspen Valley. The river now is clear and fishable throughout its length. Float fishing has resumed and been exceptional. Look for the fish to be in the deeper pools and seams early in the day and transitioning into shallower pieces of water during midday hatches. Blue-wing-olives are out in good numbers, with some sporadic hatches of caddis thrown into the mix. Hot flies include: Stimulators, Fluttering Caddis, Ethawing Caddis, Para BWOs, Bill's Midge Emergers, Princes, Red CJ's, 20 Inchers, Tungstones, Molting Stones, Clousers, Buggers, and Stingin' Sculpins. Current river flows are about 357 cfs in Basalt and 775 cfs in Glenwood Springs.
Shadow Mountain Reservoir -- Ice is quickly leaving this shallow reservoir. The south end already is wide-open. The canal has been flowing frequently and fishing is great. Several 4 1/2-pound rainbows have been caught, along with some browns and a 31-inch mackinaw. Bottom fishing has been productive, but slip-bobber rigs work very well, also. Spinners, Rapalas and other lures work well in the main reservoir. Conditions below Shadow Mountain Dam are also excellent. Sow bugs, nymphs and even some caddis patterns have been doing well for fly fishermen, and lures and bait also are productive. Brown trout are plentiful in this area. Some kokanee also are being caught in this location. Trolling now is an option.
Stagecoach Reservoir -- Shoreline fishermen have been taking 18- to 24-inch rainbow trout on worms around the inlet. Pike activity is still slow; Pike activity is still slow, but several 19- to 22-inch northerns have been caught on spinners. Fishing at the Tailwaters is still good using midges. For more conditions information, please visit www.parks.state.co.us
Steamboat Lake -- Steamboat Lake is totally iced-over. For up-to-date information, check our conditions page at www.parks.state.co.us/steamboat lake.
Trappers Lake -- The lake is frozen and though the road has been plowed, it is very muddy and travel is not recommended. The ice usually goes off around Memorial Day, but an earlier ice-out is possible this year. The lake is an outstanding fishery for naturally reproducing cutthroat trout. Fishermen may use only artificial flies or lures. The limit on cutthroats is two fish. All cutts longer than 11 inches must immediately be returned to the water alive. Fishermen are encouraged to keep all the brook trout they catch.
Vega Reservoir -- The ice is gone and the Early Settlers and Island boat ramps are available. The water is clear and rising, though it remains an estimated 30 feet below capacity. Fishing from shore and boats has been fair to good on the standard assortment of baits and lures. Some of the trout have been quite nice-sized. Spawning trout have been moving toward the Plateau Creek inlet.
White River -- The river has been somewhat off-color from the early runoff but fishable. Clarity is a day-to-day thing, with clearer water during cooler weather. Anglers have been having some success on Woolly Buggers and dead-drifted beadhead nymphs.
Williams Fork Reservoir -- Open water has appeared around most of the shoreline, though early in the week some rapidly deteriorating ice remained on some middle portions of the lake. That should quickly melt with warm weather and wind. The "pike flats" on the south side have open water. Northerns should be on the move as the ice recedes, but will become more active later. The reservoir also has rainbow trout and some large mackinaw.
Williams Fork River -- Flows below Williams Fork Dam have been low, at a constant 37 cfs. Fishing has been inconsistent, but beadhead Barr's Emergers, Black Beauties and Pheasant Tails in sizes 20-24 have been taking some trout.
Willow Creek Reservoir -- The reservoir remains ice-locked. Because of early runoff, access to the ice has been hampered by edge water. It will be some time before this reservoir is open. Inquire in Granby for updates.
Wolford Reservoir -- The lake is free of ice. Shoreline fishermen have been taking some trout on the typical baits, and trolling crankbaits has been effective for boating fishermen.
Yampa River (Hayden through Craig) -- The runoff is under way, and the river is generally unfishable. When clear, it offers potentially good fishing for trout and northern pike, but much of it flows through private property with limited public access. Float-fishing trips are popular here.
Yampa River (Stagecoach through Steamboat) -- The Yampa is cold, discolored and difficult to wade. Though a few fish are being taken through Steamboat Springs, fishing generally is poor. The best choice is the .6-mile tailwater below Stagecoach Dam. Midges and a few blue-wing-olive are on the water there, but anglers should expect a social experience with the crowds.

Southeast

Adobe Creek Res. (Blue Lake) -- Winter storage has filled Blue Lake. High-water boat ramps are in service. Anglers should enjoy good water levels until irrigation draw-downs lower the lake. Little to no fishing activity has occurred so far this spring, and success has been poor. Fall inventories conducted by the DOW revealed increasing numbers of crappie and saugeyes. Good numbers of channel and blue catfish should also be available.
Anticline Lake -- The weather has been cold and the trout have not been very aggressive. Only a few have been taken on Power Bait or Fireballs. The popular lake below Pueblo Dam is heavily stocked with catchable-sized trout in the spring and early summer. Most of the typical baits and lures are effective here, but success often depends on periodic stocking.
Arkansas River #3 (Through Pueblo) -- Flows in the tailwater have remained stable this week, between 216-246 cfs. Recent weather conditions have resulted in increased mayfly activity and the fish have become more active as a result. Surface emerger patterns are a good choice now. Try Brook's Sprout Baetis, 16-18; Pheasant Tail, 18-20; Barr's Wet Emerger, 18-20; San Juan Worm, red, No. 12. Fish have been taken in the drop-offs to deeper pools. The area above the Nature Center continues to produce nice fish. Habitat improvements have created deeper pools and structure for the fish to thrive in even when releases from Pueblo Dam are minimal. Standard fishing regulations and limits are in effect on this section of the river.
Arkansas River (Buena Vista to Salida) -- Water quality and quantity remain excellent in this reach, with 317 cfs in Browns Canyon and 330 through Salida. Blue-wing-olive hatches have been prolific in this reach on cloudy days and the sub-surface action has been excellent on brighter days. Try size 18-20 blue-wing-olive patterns on top; midge and bwo nymphs following a size 14 Pheasant Tail have been a good sub-surface option.
Arkansas River (Leadville to Buena Vista) -- Flows in this section have been 114 cfs at Granite and 209 above Buena Vista. Fishing has improved weekly as water temperatures continue to rise. Blue-wing-olive mayfly hatches have been happening upstream as far as Buena Vista, so the fish are moving out into edge water and riffles to feed. Look for dry fly action on cloudy, wet days that aren't too cold, and nymph on the brighter days.
Arkansas River (Salida to Canon City) -- On Sunday, flows were 364 cfs at Wellsville and 419 down at Parkdale. Water clarity is great and flow levels are good for wading or floating. Strong blue-wing-olive activity has been common on this reach - hatches with cloud cover; great nymphing on bright days. The river is in prime form with very little spring fishing pressure yet.
Beckwith Reservoir -- The area received a foot of snow last week and fishing pressure has been light. The water is high and despite the added snow melt it remains clear. Fishing for 10- to 12-inch trout has been good. While most are caught on worms, salmon eggs and orange Power Bait, brass spoons also have been effective. The lake is accessible for boaters near the south end of the dam. Only electric motors may be used. The water temperature needs to warm up a few degrees for the largemouth bass, crappie and bluegill fishing to improve.
Bonny Reservoir -- Not many people were fishing this weekend because of the cold weather. A few 1- to 5-pound catfish are being caught in the shallows. No reports of crappie biting have come in yet. The two-lane boat ramp is open and the courtesy dock is installed. The boat-ramp depth is 3-5 feet and the channel going out to the main lake is 3 feet deep. The lake came up a foot and a half this winter but is still approximately 20 feet down from the full mark.
Brush Hollow Reservoir -- The early season water level is good, but drawdowns by early June are common. Stocked catchable-sized trout provide much of the early activity. The lake also has warm-water species including largemouth bass, walleyes, crappie, channel catfish and bluegills. Warm-water fishing usually peaks in May and June and tapers off during the heat of summer. A mercury advisory by the Colorado Department of Public Health is in effect for walleyes of a certain size.
Catamount Reservoirs, North & South -- Water levels should be very good when the reservoirs open for the season on April 28. Fishing should be very good for trout species including mackinaw. North Catamount should be best for mackinaw in the spring; South Catamount should be excellent for rainbows. North Catamount also has some cuttbows that should be 2-3 pounds. Fishermen may use only artificial flies and lures on North Catamount. Access to both is from the Pikes Peak Highway and requires paying an access fee. Hours of operation will be: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through June 1; 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., June 2-Aug. 31; 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sept. 1-29, weekends; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sept. 1-29, weekdays. The area is closed during the Pikes Peak Hill Climb race.
Clear Creek Reservoir -- The lake is free of ice, and a few boats have been on the water. The city of Pueblo will drain the reservoir to its conservation pool from July to mid-August. Fish will survive in the pool but angler access may be affected. Stocking will be reduced then but fishing should remain good. This traditionally is one of the most productive and dependable reservoirs in the upper Arkansas River basin, producing excellent fishing for rainbow and cutthroat trout with occasional larger browns. Kokanee salmon fishing should be very good in 2007. Most will be less than 13 inches with a few over 15. Tiger muskies recently were introduced to prey on abundant suckers and provide opportunities to catch larger fish. Anglers should start seeing them in 2007.
Cottonwood Lake -- The small lake west of Buena Vista had ample open water for shoreline fishing during the weekend and likely will be completely ice-free very soon.
Crystal Creek Reservoir -- The water level has improved from the past few years and fishing for catchable-sized trout should be good. The reservoir is part of the North Slope Recreation Area, and access requires paying a fee at the Pikes Peak Highway tollgate. The highway crosses the dam. The lake will open for the season on April 28. See the entry for the Catamount reservoirs for hours of operation.
Daigre Reservoir -- The ice is off. Fishing remains fair to good on gold-finish spinning lures and dark, woolly flies. Fishermen may use only artificial flies and lures at the lake.
DeWeese Reservoir -- The lake is completely free of ice. Early bird fishermen have enjoyed god results on orange Power Bait, night crawlers, spinning lures and Woolly Buggers. Access to higher-elevation lakes in the region remains snowed in. Stocked catchable-sized trout provide much of the fishing at DeWeese, but holdover rainbows of 16-20 inches and a few 16- to 18-inch browns are present. The lake also has abundant smallmouth bass, mostly of 6-12 inches but with a few up to 16.
Elevenmile Reservoir -- The boating season has begun. Boating is now permitted daily from 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset. Please use caution as isolated patches of ice may be present. The spring spawn is now on the tail end, with only occasional rainbow trout being caught in various shallows along the shoreline. Northern pike fishing is poor, with the majority of fish less than 12 inches. The bag and possession limit is 10 kokanee salmon and four trout, of which only two can be 16 inches or longer. No limit applies to northern pike.
Fountain Lake -- Like other urban lakes in Pueblo, this one is stocked most months the year. Trout fishing typically is good in the spring, usually slows down during the summer months, but picks up in the fall. The lake also has some catfish that can grow quite large.
Hayden Meadows Reservoir -- The lake south of Leadville is free of ice and soon will be stocked with catchable-sized trout. Early fishing usually is fair to good on a variety of baits and spinning lures. Fly fishing, either with a fly-bubble outfit or a regular fly rod, can be especially good later in the season.
Horseshoe Reservoir -- The water level is good. Trout fishing has been better than usual and DOW is stocking regularly. The ice has been off for several weeks and fishing conditions are very good. Fishing for warm-water species is slow but will improve as the water warms up. The water temperature currently is about 46 degrees. The peak fishing for warm-water species is around May 1. The boat dock is in on the north side of Horseshoe. Call the park office at 719-738-2376 for current conditions.
Jefferson Lake -- The road to the lake remains closed and will not open until sometime in May. Ice usually remains on the lake until late May or early June. The lake offers very good fishing for catchable-sized rainbows and occasional brook trout. Small (12- to 18-inch) lake trout be taken from shore throughout the season. Larger lake trout are available to shoreline fishermen soon after ice-out.
John Martin Reservoir -- John Martin's water level now is 70,000 acre feet. Fishing in the settling basin has been fair to good for wipers and white bass and poor to fair for saugeyes and channel catfish. Shrimp baits and cut shad have produced some good catches of wipers. Fishing in the main reservoir has been poor.
Karval and Kinney lakes -- With the recent cold weather, fishing has been slow and few fishermen have been out. Both lakes and the nearby Hugo SWA ponds have been stocked with catchable-sized trout. All also have most common warm-water species. Fishing for them should improve with rising water temperatures. Low water created some water-quality problems at Karval, but recent testing indicates a return to normal conditions.
Lake Henry -- Water levels at Henry currently are good. Little or no fishing activity has been reported this spring. Fall inventory sampling revealed good numbers of crappie, saugeyes and catfish. Fishing should improve as the water warms.
Lake Meredith -- The water levels at Meredith currently are good. This is the third year since the lake was restocked after having been drained. Fish should be approaching catchable size. Crappie, saugeyes, catfish and wipers have been stocked in good numbers since the lake was refilled.
Manitou Lake -- The popular U.S. Forest Service lake north of Woodland Park is heavily stocked with catchable-sized trout through the summer and fishing usually is quite good. Excellent water levels are expected this year. Payment of an entry fee is required. Campgrounds and other amenities are nearby.
Martin Lake -- The water level is good. Fishing for trout has been excellent using live bait. The DOW is stocking regularly. The kids pond recently was stocked with trout. The water temperature is about 46 degrees. Northern pike are becoming active, but fishing for other warm-water species remains slow and will be until the water warms up, around May 1. The boat dock is in. Call the park office at 719-738-2376 for current conditions.
Montgomery Reservoir -- The lake is frozen and closed to all access until June 1.
Monument Lake -- This 40-acre lake filled last year and should provide very good fishing for catchable-sized trout in 2007. Warm-water fish were stocked as fingerlings last year, but will not be large enough to interest fishermen for another year or two.
Monument Reservoir -- Fishing for catchable-sized rainbow trout has been fair, but fishing pressure has been very light. Rainbow trout will comprise much of the catch through the summer, but the lake also has a good population of browns running 8-12 inches, with an occasional fish up to 20. Browns should become active soon. Kokanee-salmon stocking has increased in recent years and should provide some fishing in late summer and fall.
Nee Gronda Reservoir -- Nee Gronde opened to public access on April 1. Boat access will be impossible until the ramps are repaired. Ramps should be repaired within the next couple of weeks. Little to no fishing activity has occurred so far this spring. Good spring fishing for wipers and saugeyes is expected.
Nee Noshe Reservoir -- Nee Noshe is very low, at less than 500 acres. Boat access will be difficult until ramp repairs are made. Nee Noshe opened for public access on April 1. Little fishing activity has occurred so far this spring. Good spring fishing for catfish, saugeyes and wipers is expected.
Nichols Reservoir -- Nichols is accessed by a hiking trail leading down from the Rampart Reservoir dam. At present, that requires a significantly longer trek from the Rampart Range Road. The road to Rampart Dam is to open in mid-May. At last report, Nichols still had ice. After ice-out, the reservoir is heavily stocked with catchable-sized trout and offers better than average fishing through the summer.
North Lake -- The lake is ice-free. Spin-fishermen have enjoyed the best success recently, with silver Super Dupers and yellow Panther Martins among the best lures. The lake has catchable-sized rainbow trout and an improving population of splake. Good fishing for both species is expected this season. Fishermen may use only artificial flies and lures at North Lake. Habitat stamps are required of all visitors to the state wildlife area.
Palmer Lake -- The water level has been very low the past few years and the lake has not been stocked. Very few fish remain. No fish will be stocked until the water level is suitable.
Pikeview Reservoir -- This Colorado Springs city lake is a developing warm-water fishery, with a variety of species present, including some saugeyes up to five pounds. The lake also is stocked with catchable-size trout. Parking is limited because of nearby construction. Anglers must park along Mark Dabling Boulevard, at Goose Gossage Park or along the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail.
Prospect Lake -- The lake in Colorado Springs has been refilled and stocked with catchable-sized trout. Rebuilding the warm-water fishery continues, but fishing for bass, catfish, panfish and wipers still is a year or two away.
Pueblo Reservoir -- The weather has been unsettled and few boats have been on the water. Shoreline fishermen report catching a few trout on Panther Martin spinners. A few catfish have been taken near the Hobie Flats area. The water level is the best in recent years. Fishing for bass, walleyes, crappie and other warm-water fish should improve in about two weeks, as the water warms. The walleye population remains high but most are not of legal (18-inch) size. Wipers are stable, with many in the 15- to 22-inch range. Smallmouth and spotted bass are doing very well, and largemouths have been increasing with higher water. Catch rates will be high, but most bass will be under 15 inches. Catfish numbers are low to moderate but many are good-sized. The lake has both channel and flathead catfish.
Quail Lake -- The Colorado Springs city lake has been stocked with catchable-size trout. It also has a variety of warm-water fish, including largemouth bass, catfish and bluegills. Fishing for them has been slow but should improve with warmer water temperatures.
Queens Reservoirs -- Upper and Lower Queens reservoirs are dry.
Rampart Reservoir -- At last report the reservoir was largely covered with unsafe ice. Access is limited to walking in to Rainbow Gulch or the dam from the Rampart Range Road. The access road to the lake will not open for at least three weeks. Excellent water levels are expected in 2007. The lake is heavily stocked with rainbow trout and also has mackinaw. Fishing for mackinaw from shore is especially good soon after ice-out. Access to the boat ramp requires crossing the dam and can be affected by Homeland Security considerations. In general, it is available from mid-May to early October, but restrictions apply to some types of vehicles. Campgrounds and other amenities will open around Memorial Day. They are managed by a U.S. Forest Service concessionaire and entry requires payment of a fee.
Runyon Lake -- This is one of several Pueblo-area lakes stocked 12 months a year. Fishing for catchable-sized trout should be fairly good through the spring, early summer and fall. The lake also has some catfish that can grow to impressive size.
San Isabel Lake -- More than 20 inches of snow fell in the area last week, limiting access, but warming temperatures are expected to rapidly melt the snow. Though fishing pressure has been very light, one angler recently enjoyed good success on a blue-and-silver Z-Ray lure. The ice recently went off, and the lake is at the high-water mark. The main parking lot at the northwest corner of the lake is open. The east parking lot and road around the lake remain closed. Access roads and campgrounds are managed for the U.S. Forest Service by Rocky Mountain Recreation, which likely will open everything sometime in May. At that time, a $5 per vehicle daily use fee will be charged. The lake will be stocked with rainbow trout in May. It also offers browns, cutthroats, brook trout and splake.
Skaguay Reservoir -- The lake east of Victor is free of ice. After several years of drought, the reservoir will be full in 2007. Stocked trout and holdover fish up to 15 inches comprise most of the catch. The lake also has some northern pike up to 40 inches, and anglers are encouraged to keep all the pike they catch. The inlet area offers the best pike habitat. Facilities include a boat ramp. Wakeless boating is required. The creek below the dam offers fishing for brown trout.
South Platte River (btwn Spinney and Elevenmile) -- Flows have been low all week, at about 48 cfs. Though some spawners from Elevenmile Reservoir are in the river, the low flows appear to be discouraging many fish from moving into the stream. Fish that are in the river are pooled up and difficult to entice. As usual, the area attracts large crowds this time of year.
South Platte River, Deckers area -- The flows have dropped a little from last week and on Tuesday were at 144 cfs. The water remains slightly discolored above Deckers and distinctly off-color below. A few fish have been rising to blue-wing-olive mayflies, but the most effective rig remains a scud, egg or San Juan worm as the lead fly, trailed by a small RS-2 or midge emerger. As usual, success varies from day to day and from angler to angler.
South Platte River, Elevenmile Canyon -- Flows were 41 cfs on Tuesday. Blue-wing-olive mayflies in sizes 18-20 have been hatching, and fishing has been quite good despite the low flow. The usual midges also have been evident and if trout are feeding on the surface, fishing has been good. If not, nymph fishing remains challenging.
Spinney Mountain Reservoir -- Spinney Mountain is open for the season. This is a day use park, opening 1/2 hour before sunrise and closing one hour after sunset. Fishing at Spinney is by artificial flies and lures only, with a bag and possession limit of one trout at least 20 inches long. Fishing has been slow, with most fish being below the minimum size. The action is expected to increase rapidly as water temperatures rise. The most successful flies have been scud patterns, various streamers, and white jigs.
Tarryall Reservoir -- Though about half the lake was covered by floating ice early in the week, the entire inlet area was open. With wind and warm weather, all the ice should be gone in a matter of days. Fishing generally was good through the ice-fishing season and the action should continue after ice-out. Expect rainbow and Snake River cutthroat trout in the 11- to 16-inch range and an occasional larger brown. The lake also has northern pike, which have been growing in size and turning up in the catch more frequently. Anglers are encouraged to keep all the pike they catch. A habitat stamp is required of all visitors to the state wildlife area.
Trinidad Reservoir -- The water is high and rising with muddy runoff from the Purgatoire River inlet. Fishing for rainbow trout of 14-plus inches has been fair to good in Reilly Canyon. Anglers have been catching good numbers, but they seem to come in groups, with very little action in between. Other fish species aren't being seen yet, but expect fishing to pick up as the water warms. The boat dock is in. Boaters are asked to use caution because of a lot of floating and partially submerged debris, as well as some unmarked obstacles in the lake. The visitor’s center is open for license and pass sales and the campground is partially open. Anglers are reminded to check for special size and possession limits for bass and walleyes at Trinidad Lake.
Turks Pond -- Well repairs have helped improve the water level at Turks Pond. A new boat ramp extension was added last summer. Spring trout stocking occurred last week. Fishing is usually good for trout after the stocking. Fishing has been slow for all other species but should improve as water warms.
Turquoise Lake -- The lake remains ice-covered. Ice fi