Colorado Fly Fishing by The Flyfisher

Rocky Mountain Morning Fishing

I had to share Wednesday mornings first light picture with you from the Lincoln Hills Fly Fishing Club’s deck. I was going through emails and catching up on other items before today’s client arrives for another spectacular day of trout fishing.

 

 

It was a little chilly, 38 to be exact, but with a sweatshirt and warm cup of Jo, life is good. The morning steam is lifting from Pactolus Lake and there were several schools of Dace bubbling the surface. Fall fishing season is among us in Colorado and we are looking forward to this part of the year.

 

Anthony Bartkowski

Pro Staff Guide

Hatch Fly Fishing Reels Pro Staff

Surface Film Ants - South Boulder Creek

Early fall is possibly the best time to fish dries on South Boulder Creek. My personal favorite dry fly pattern is a Peacock PMX in a #12 or #14. This pattern can often pull trout out of any hiding spot regardless of the fishing conditions.

My favorite two fly rig is a PMX with some kind of ant pattern trailing behind in sizes #16 - #20 mainly in black. Many times a fish can be drawn to the surface with a good dry fly presentation, but will often refuse or simply slap at the fly with their tail. Using a small ant pattern that sits on the surface film or even slightly under will produce a surprising amount of fish at the end of the day. Using an ant trailer will entice them to feed on a small surface terrestrial instead of slapping your fly, causing you to set, and quickly steering your rig ten feet high in the pretty willow bush behind you. 

After pumping hundreds of stomachs over the past four years I have found a significant amount of ants in my samples. I usually start finding them as runoff begins through the middle or end of September. Mid August through the second week in September has been the peak.

Ant patterns can be fished either with a nymph rig or dragging behind a dry of any size and flavor. I typically only fish them on nymph rigs when the flows are up and there is more water to work with. When the flows drop, as they currently have been on South Boulder Creek, I really like to switch over to a dry with an ant dropper. I do not dress the ant, I simply tie it on, pinch the barb and play it as it lies. I usually tie an ant on about 14-18 inches behind my lead dry. This is a great rig to fish on any Rocky Mountain stream, especially the Front Range, and I hope you have as much success with it as I have.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions at cody@lincolhillsflyfishing.com

Cody DeGuelle

Scott Fly Rod Co. joins effort to protect Colorado's Alpine Triangle

MONTROSE, Colo.-Scott Fly Rod Co. of Montrose, Colo., has endorsed Trout Unlimited's efforts to protect the fishing and hunting resources of southwest Colorado's Alpine Triangle by joining a growing coalition of sportsmen, businesses and industry interested in keeping the Triangle just like it is today.

"The Alpine Triangle is what people think about when they think of Colorado," said Jim Bartschi, president and CEO of Scott, one of the world's leading designers and manufacturers of fly rods. "Keeping it intact, and keeping its fishing and hunting resources viable well into the future is important to Scott, and we stand behind TU's efforts to protect this special place."

The Alpine Triangle is a 186,000-acre tract of Bureau of Land Management land located between Silverton, Ouray and Lake City (hence the "triangle"). It's home to trophy big game hunting and excellent fisheries resources, with potential for even better fishing as the area's century-old mining scars are cleaned up. Three of Colorado's trophy trout streams-the Lake Fork of the Gunnison, the Uncompahgre and the Animas-start in the Alpine Triangle.

"We're working with a diverse group of people that includes hunters, anglers, businesspeople and folks from all over the country who come to experience this amazing place," said Ty Churchwell, backcountry coordinator for Trout Unlimited. "This place is so unique, in that it has something for everyone, whether you like to ride off-road vehicles, fish for wild and native trout in a backcountry setting, explore old ghost towns or just experience that signature Rocky Mountain scenery. We'd like to make sure it remains just like it is for the next generation."

The Triangle has seen its share of abuse over the last 125 years or so. Its slopes are scarred with abandoned mines and mine tailing piles, some of which drain toxic, metal-laden water into the area's waterways. While some cleanup efforts are under way, much remains to be done. Additionally, TU would like to see any new mining in the area done responsibly to prevent new pollution from entering rivers and streams and further tarnishing trout habitat and angling opportunity.

The Triangle was also just recently named to the TU/Field and Stream list of Best Wild Places, which includes the Roan Plateau in northwest Colorado, the Outlaw Triangle in Utah and Wyoming, the Gila National Forest of southern New Mexico, the Cabinet-Yaak Mountains of Montana and the Blue Lakes-Pine Forest Range of Nevada.

For more information about TU's work on the Alpine Triangle, visit www.alpinetriangle.com. To learn more about Scott Fly Rod Co., visitwww.scottflyrod.com.

Courtesy of The Fishing Wire.

Costa Del Mar Introduces Color Enhancing and Impact Resistant 580P Lenses

Costa Del Mar, who has captured a lot of awards recently for various sunglasses technologies, appears to be back at it again. This time Costa is introducing the new Costa 580P Lens, a feather light, impact resistant lens which maintains Costa’s color-enhancing secrets. If you want specifics, make sure to go to the Costa Website at www.costadelmar.com.

 

The overall clarity of all of the Costa glasses I have are nothing short of supreme. I have tried many other brands through my years of shaking my long rod, and I am looking forward to trying out the new lenses. I have always been a stickler on crystal clear vision on the river. It is required for us to see the fish to help our clients hook-up all day long. Costa gets the job done beyond all accounts.

 

The part that has me excited with the 580P intro is the numerous colors available for various fishing situations, as well as the impact and scratch resistances. All of the patented Costa 580 lenses block yellow light at 580 nanometers on the light spectrum. The result is unparalleled visual clarity, the highest levels of polarization efficiency and razor sharp color enhancement. 

 

Until now, the Costa 580 lens has only been available in glass. While glass is the most optically correct and most scratch resistant material, it is not as impact resistant and lightweight as polycarbonate or other plastic lenses on the market.

 

“Many of our customers requested a more lightweight, impact resistant Costa 580 lens for use during fast-paced, aerobic activities,” said Chas MacDonald, Costa Sunglasses president. “The challenge was to develop a polycarbonate lens that lived up to Costa 580’s high standards for visual clarity and durability, and that’s what we’ve done.  Now, there’s a Costa 580 lens for everyone.”

 

Costa’s 580P lenses are available in gray, copper or amber, and initially will be available in 18 of the “forget-they’re-on” comfortable frame styles, including the popular Fisch, Blackfin, Zane and Corbina.  Prices range from $159 to $199, depending on frame choice, and will be available in retail outlets and online in July. 

 

So here it is… Costa Del Mar takes the comments of its consumers and does something with it. That is what you get for American Made and American Proud.

 

Anthony Bartkowski

2009 Guide of the Year

Pro Staff Guide

Hatch Fly Fishing Reels Pro Staff

Shark Tooth Supports Anglers Against Breast Cancer

July 2010-Simi Valley, CA: The "Shark Tooth" making its industry debut at the 2010 Bassmaster Classic was a perfect pair with winner Kevin VanDam who not only won his third Classic but had signed on to endorse the Shark Tooth before it even hit the market. "We were blown away by the response of the anglers at the Classic." Says 'BBT'-Bobby Holt, Inventor of the Shark Tooth. When we met Darla (Darla Bardelli: Professional Angler, National Radio Talk Show Host and Breast Cancer Survivor) and she pointed out to us that 26% of the fishing industry were women and that 1 out of 8 will be diagnosed with Breast Cancer, we wanted to do something to help... thus..

The PINK TOOTH. The 'Shark Tooth" Leader Control System originally developed for the fly fishing industry has taken Bass/Freshwater and Saltwater anglers by storm. "Everyone who sees it... does a double take, smiles, some of them slap their forehead and then buy atleast 3". The 'Shark Tooth' Leader Control System simply described is an elastic band in four sizes made to work with all types and sizes of line on spools from tippet to bulk braid with a molded plastic 'Shark Tooth' that allows the user to position it on the spool drawing the line through the hole, creating tension as you unspool it and then the stainless steel cutter, cuts the length of line you need leaving a 5/8 inch tag line each time. The 'Shark Tooth' keeps your line on the spool, helps you load your reels, manage your line and tippet and eliminates the need for nippers and line waste and NOW as an addition to the original designs the Shark Tooth is available in 2 different sizes in PINK with a percentage of the proceeds going to Anglers Against Breast Cancer to support families as they journey through the Breast Cancer battle. Anglers Against Breast Cancer was founded by Darla Bardelli during her battle with Breast Cancer. "When I discovered that there aren't any programs available for husbands and men as co-survivors, I decided I could use my love of fishing and my experience as an outreach to help men better navigate the Breast Cancer battle with the woman they love.

Currently the PINK 'Shark Tooth' is available at www.getsharktooth.com

Courtesy of The Fishingwire.

 

 

South Boulder Creek - Best Fishing Flows!

 
It looks like we are finally at consistent summer flows on South Boulder Creek above and below Gross Reservoir. The flows have been fairly steady between about 180 - 150 cfs. This range is my personal favorite for the drainage because of the ability for fish to migrate up and down stream, and spread out along my favorite sections.

When fishing SBC be sure to check flows for the date you are fishing and the previous 3-5 days. I have noticed over the past three years that the fish tend to shutdown when flows are fluctuating 40-80 cfs every day or two. When flows stay steady (around 30 cfs and less) for at least two days the fish can get on a good feeding pattern and move into the fishy pockets and runs.

Caution: We are in afternoon thunderstorm season so expect some weather usually around 2-3pm. Also seeing a lot more mosquitoes and horse flies than usual so don't forget the deet.

Current South Boulder Creek Conditions:

Flows: 150 - 180 cfs

Water Temp: Upper 40s and Lower 50s

Weather: 70s during the day with T-storms and showers in the afternoon

Hatches: Gray Drakes #12-16, Caddis #12-14 (tan and olive), Micro Stones #16-18 (yellowish-olive))

Flies: Parachute Adams #14, Elk Hair Caddis #12 (tan and yellow),Graphic Caddis #16 (olive), Baetis 

Nymphs #16-20 (browns and black)

Please contact me at cody@lincolnhillsflyfishing.com with any questions, comments, or good days on SBC.

Cody DeGuelle

G.Loomis Introduces The Next Advance In Graphite Rods

WOODLAND, Washington USA - ICAST Show 2010 Introduction - Anglers around the globe realize G.Loomis is a long-time leader in graphite rod blank technology. It started with IM6 and GL2, then to GL3 and IMX, and then GLX more than 16 years ago, the only graphite made strictly for use in the construction of fishing rods. The next breakthrough is now here with G.Loomis' new 16 NRX four-piece fly rods in weights and designs for trout, salmon/steelhead, saltwater and two-hand/spey techniques.

(Editor's Note: G.Loomis' NRX fly rods will be available from select retailers in both the U.S. and Canada on Friday, August 13 - we'll have additional information on the rod launch including participating shops the week of August 2)

Calling on the talents of chief rod designer Steve Rajeff and the support of the entire G.Loomis team worldwide, anglers "will uncover a series of rods that are at least 15-percent lighter than similar GLX rods, plus we're able to offer a durability feature to make them up to 20-percent stronger and more impact resistant," said Rajeff. "And as anglers would expect from G.Loomis, we bring the best in components - from reel seats, grips and guides - specific for the bass rods and fly rods. At G.Loomis, we have never settled for just good enough. These NRX rods are the best at every level in terms of graphite, resins and components to provide anglers with the most dynamic, lightweight and sensitive rods we've ever made."

According to Justin Poe, brand manager for G.Loomis, the NRX construction method is completely unique to rod manufacturing. "By utilizing a stiffer, lighter and higher density carbon married with Nano Silica resin systems, we can provide Steve and his design team with a material that provides all kinds of positive benefits to anglers. The rods are lighter, yet more durable, extremely sensitive, and yet stiffer. Obviously we simply think they are the best rods out there."

All rods feature G.Loomis' unique 'Hybrid Guide System' that combines the strategic placement of both Fuji titanium-framed SIC and REC Recoil black ion coated nickel-titanium guides from the stripper to the tip. "We use stiffer Fuji guides closest to the reel to offer more sensitivity transfer to the angler along with moving weight back to rods' butt section - plus also on the tip," said Rajeff, "and then REC black Ion-coated single foot guides that are extremely small and light so as not to impede casting and retrieve performance. Looking down the rod, it looks like the guides disappear off the blank."

"Never before have I felt a rod with this much life," said Poe. "Life is something we talk about as a premiere rod company, and in these NRX rods, anglers will feel the difference when their lure drags across silt, gravel, and ridges - even at 60-feet. With the life in these rods, even a light tick turns into a thump. Set the hook."

As with all G.Loomis rods, the NRX models are manufactured in the USA. For more information on the new NRX fly rods, visit www.gloomis.com or call 1-800-GLoomis.

Courtesy G.Loomis

Costa Honors Angling Legend Jose Wejebe in New Sunglass Style

Daytona Beach, Fla. –When it comes to fishing legends, one name often shoots to the top of the list: Jose Wejebe.  Costa Sunglasses has been an avid fan and supporter of Wejebe, host of TV’s Spanish Fly and expert saltwater angler, for years.

 

In tribute to Wejebe, Costa Sunglasses named its latest sunglass style after him: Jose.  The new style will debut at the American Sportfishing Association International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades (ICAST) at the Las Vegas Convention Center July 14-16, and be entered into the New Product Showcase competition during the show.

 

Part of Costa’s 2010 collection, Jose features co-molded injected performance technology.  Translation: the frames are made of nearly indestructible nylon, able to withstand even the most rigorous adventure. At the same time, the lightweight full frame with anti-rocking spring hinge and no-slip Hydrolite™ nose pads give the wearer a comfortable “forget-they’re-on” fit.

 

Jose is available in Costa’s patented 580™ lens.  By blocking yellow light at 580 nanometers on the light spectrum, Costa’s 580 lenses provide unparalleled visual clarity, the highest levels of polarization efficiency and razor sharp color enhancement.  Costa 580 lenses are available in optically correct, scratch resistant glass or in the new lightweight, impact resistant polycarbonate (Costa 580P) option. 

 

“I’ve been wearing Costa’s sunglasses for years – my work depends on being able to separate fish and targets both in the water and in the air,” said Wejebe.  “For Costa to name one of its new styles after me is an incredible badge of honor, one I’m proud to wear.”

 

Jose’s frame color choices include tortoise or black, and can be customized with the full variety of Costa’s lens colors and materials. The style retails from $159 to $259, and will be available at authorized Costa retail outlets and online at www.costadelmar.com.   

 

 Courtesy of Costa Del Mar

Fishing Post Run-Off

Roger DeGuelle with a South Boulder Creek monster!

As the water level drops on Colorado's rivers and streams, trout re-appear from their hideouts and start eating everything in sight. Many agree that some of the best fishing of the year happens after the water has dropped and reached steady flows. I have personally caught most of my largest fish after run-off and had many of my greatest days.

Most all disciplines of fly fishing can catch fish this time of year, but one specific technique attracts all of my attention. Swinging soft hackle patterns is one of my favorite methods to take fish in the summer fishing season. I have dubbed this time of year the "Swing Season" which falls between the end of run-off (usually the end of June or beginning of July) and the beginning of the big Drake hatches (usually mid to late July) .

There are no particular patterns that seem to work better than others, however, color and size will make all the difference throughout the day. I usually fish sizes #12 - #18 in chartreuse, olive, tan, and brown. I try and match the size and color to caddis larvae and mayfly nymphs that are present in the water. An exact match is not necessary as the flies are moving quickly through the water when strikes are triggered.The key is having the feathery skirt there to pulsate as the fly swims and swings across the channel.

Click on Image to see a larger version.

The actual technique is started by making a standard nymph style cast and drift, but at the end of the drift allowing your rig to swing to a resting position directly downstream stream of the angler. If facing the opposite stream bank, the area of swing would be about 45 degrees downstream to directly down stream. This method is intended to imitate insects that are emerging off the bottom to the surface to hatch.This is very similar to swinging a streamer across the river, but with much smaller flies that imitate aquatic insects.

I would recommend fishing a little heavier tippet as the strikes are typically very aggressive. I try to concentrate on slow rolling riffles, steady paced pools/glides, and the front sides of rocks/boulders (pillows). Keep on your toes swinging soft hackles attracts strikes at the most unexpected times. Feel free to contact me with any questions at cody@lincolnhillsflyfishing.com.

Cody DeGuelle

Stillwater at Its' Best

With flows at historic highs, flash-flood warnings throughout the state and tail-waters that look like swollen freestones it may be time for the fly-angler to focus on stillwater. A few of Colorado’s rivers have been fishing well and the skillful angler can have great success during run-off. But if flows continue to be erratic, fishing will become more unpredictable. Places like Spinney Reservoir and Quincy Reservoir have been providing non-stop action and should be considered by any angler wanting to get out and hook-up.

Cold-Water

Midges have made up the majority of the hatches in most of the cold-water impoundments throughout Colorado. Use long leaders on floating lines and suspend midge larva and pupa patterns just above the weeds. Little to no retrieval (dead-sticking) of the midges works best, though the occasional twitch may trigger strikes. Midges are much larger in the lakes and fishing a size #14 pupa is not uncommon.

As the water temperatures warm Callibaetis and Damselfly nymphs will come into play. Use long leaders on floating lines or a sink-tip with a shortened leader. Slow methodical retrieves work best, with the occasional quick burst to draw attention. Cast away from the shoreline and retrieve in towards the weeds. Using loop knots will add extra movement to the fly, better mimicking swimming nymphs.

Streamers are always an exciting way to fish stillwater. Low-light situations produce best as leeches, crayfish, and baitfish feel more secure moving throughout the water column. Floating lines and long leaders make a more vertical retrieve that imitates an injured or dying baitfish. Sink-tip and full-sinking lines allow more of a horizontal retrieve, keeping the fly in the zones where feeding fish have been located. Having both a floating and sink-tip line available will allow you to cover the water columns thoroughly. Retrievals and depth fished should vary until you find the most productive technique.

Warm-water

Bass fishing has been explosive throughout the Metro area. Pre- and post-spawn bites are beginning to peak and vary from each fishery. Top-water action is slow, though we have picked up a few small bass during warmer days. Clousers and other baitfish patterns have worked best, though crawdad imitations worked slowly on the bottom have moved a number of fish. Most fish are in the shallows so using a floating line is the way to go.

Wiper fishing has been inconsistent. Fish are beginning to move towards the shallows offering the wade-fisherman a good opportunity to catch the hardest fighting fish in Colorado. Water temperatures are beginning to warm and fishing should be good within the next few weeks.

Pike fishing has been good, with many small males still hanging around in the shallows after the post-spawn. In higher elevations large pike are still being caught in relatively shallow water. Olive bunny flies, bigger leaches, and baitfish patterns have been working best.

Top Five Places to Fish

1.) Antero Reservoir
2.) Spinney Reservoir
3.) Quincy Reservoir 
4.) Rocky Mountain Arsenal
5.) Horsetooth Reservoir

Now is the time to get out and test your skills on stillwater. The rewards are endless and no matter how successful your outings are, you will come out a better angler. So whether it’s the high-water that drives you to find an alternative to fishing rivers or the desire to catch a new species, you would be hard-pressed to find a better time to fish than now. Feel free to contact me at mattnery@theflyfisher.com with any questions. Tight Lines!

Matt Nery