I'm sure many noticed that the water clarity on South Boulder Creek during the second half of September was not great. A private land owner above Gross Reservoir was conducting over a mile of Stream Improvements. I'll bet many of you were upset when greeted by off-color water when trying to spend some time fishing SBC. But, believe me it is all for the greater good. After seeing all the work that was completed first hand, they certainly did not skimp on anything from spawning and insect habitat to great wintering pockets. What this translates into for the public water above and below is an even greater increase in fish and insect populations. As the numbers and health of insects on SBC have improved I have also noticed more and larger healthy trout, and also the occasional trophy sucker.
The amount of small trout (4 inches and less) appears to have gone through the roof over the past 3 years and all clues lead back to the sections of South Boulder Creek that have been restored to a more natural state. Not only was spawning habitat a limiting factor in fish populations and growth, but also any kind of habitat that has the ability to shelter and grow fish larger enough to reproduce. Now with adequate habitat present on SBC there has been a noticeable difference in small trout that help the population continue to grow, but also act as an additional food source for larger fish. I am certain that these land owners are significantly improving the aquatic ecosystem on the South Boulder Creek drainage and hopefully everyone that fishes the public water regularly will see the results and appreciate this excellent fly fishing opportunity.
Please contact me with any questions or concerns at cody@lincolnhillsflyfishing.com.
Cody DeGuelle
