Conditions Report - Statewide

Statewide Conditions 

This should be an interesting week ahead of us. We are at fall’s doorstep and we are about to get a good dose of fall weather for just about everywhere in the state. Temperatures will drop as early as Friday for the western portions of the state. It’s shaping up to be a system that will remain as long as a week in some areas but at least a few days for the milder portions of the cold front. We will be going from late summer weather to wet and cool weather in a matter of a day, nothing surprising for those that have experienced years of Colorado seasonal changes before. This will surely impact the fishing no matter the type of angling you plan to do so your tactics will need to adapt. Fly anglers look for a few hatches of blue winged olives and possibly some tricos if not too cold but nymph rigs should primarily be your focus. You will also want to seriously consider a streamer rig especially if you have not tried yet this year or since spring. Lake fishing should also improve for mainly your trout, pike, and walleye species. Look for fish to become more active and moving in shallower waters than earlier this past week. From shore, start by experimenting with depth and speed of retrieval. Once you start getting hits or catches its game on! From boats, hit the weed lines and shallow structures with recommended lures from the local fishing shops. Trolling will also come more into play than previously especially in our metro reservoirs. Good luck to everyone and stay warm! 
Colorado Fishing Atlas

Conditions Report - Northeast Colorado

Eleven Mile State Park

As of 10/5/2018, it’s the same story at Eleven Mile, the trout fishing has remained fantastic! The lake has really seen a great fall so far and nothing obvious says that will change as we get into the more mature stretches of the season. Not much has changed in lure selection as the last report so the same AMC Kastmasters, Dare Devils in red/white or black/white patterns will be successful. It might even be a good time to mix up the color schemes with the lures to test if something becomes the new, hot item for the fish. Fly anglers should now focus on some streamer tactics. A leach pattern followed by a fish patterned streamer could work well and really catch the fish’s attention. The leach is sometimes mainly just the attractor. When a large trout sees the smaller “fish” chasing the leach, it can really trigger that feeding instinct. The pike have also picked up their feeding habits. Weed lines and beds will be the main areas to focus on as well as rocky out crops as the pike are in ambush mode. Plastics swimbaits are still a good option for the pike. 
Eleven Mile State Park

Boyd Lake

As of 8/31/2018, the water temperature is very warm at about 75 degrees. The water levels are decent for this time of year and only down about 6-10 feet from full. Not a whole lot to report in terms of walleye or saugeye and it is safe to assume the water temperatures have pushed them to the lake depths. Largemouth bass are going to be your best bet for success this time of year. Look to see the bass being most active early in the morning. Senko’s will always get some takers so adjust your retrievals until you find the appropriate action that sparks the fish’s interest. Using plastic frogs next to weed beds and muddy shorelines have also reported some success. Reminder -No fishing from marina slips or docks (next to is okay but can't use them in any way).
Boyd Lake

Spinney Mountain Reservoir

As of 10/5/2018, earlier in the week the fishing had been really good for many anglers. The recent warmer temperatures slowed the action down a bit but it will pick up again in the coming days. Trout fishing had been good all over the reservoir. Anglers reported success with leech and nymph patterns such as damsels, chironomids and even streamers such as wooly buggers. Pike fishing has been exceptionally good with fall upon us. Work the weed beds and lines hard and look for ambush type bites. Mepps in chartreuse and silver as well as black spinner baits has worked really well lately. The reservoir is around 70 percent full and clarity is good. Again, the fishing should pick back up with the cooler weather working its way in the state this weekend and early next week. 
Spinney Mountain State Park

Barr Lake State Park

As of 9/28/2018, decent wipers have been reported being caught from the shore. The panfish activity has also been picking up and should continue to be decent. The water level is low and still dropping so be aware of the muddy patches along the shorelines as you cruise for good water to cast in. The boat ramp is still open but the dock has been removed due to the low levels. Please be cautious if you decide to launch due to the shallow water and the accumulation of silt and sand. Please remember fishing is not allowed in the canals surrounding the lake. 
Barr Lake

Jackson Lake

As of 9/28/2018, the boat ramp only has about 3 feet 10 inches of water to launch in. Surface water temperature is approximately 69 degrees. We are open to boating. Fishing has been fair to good for channel catfish, crappie, wiper and walleye.  
Jackson Lake State Park

Horsetooth Reservoir

As of 10/5/2018, fishing has cooled off a bit but that should change. Fish are following the weather patterns and the warmer week we recently had has not helped the angling conditions. Colder weather will draw a lot of species of fish out of the deeper water and encourage more activity and feeding. Again, using Ned rigs with pumpkin or watermelon colored plastics will get some smallmouth catches. This time of year could also be a good time to start using crawfish imitations again along most of Horsetooth’s rocky shorelines. Bass will certainly chomp on a crayfish crankbait but you could also tempt a walleye or even some trout. If you are fishing from shore, move around some and switch between slower and faster retrievals to put your lure in different depths until you key in on the fish’s location. 
Horsetooth Reservoir 

North Sterling 

As of 9/8/2018, the water temperature is about 71 degrees with some warmer temperatures in the shallow coves. The lake is about 28 feet down from full and dropping 2-3 feet a week. Fishing is fair for Walleye, Crappie and Wiper, with slower bites being reported lake wide. Shore fishermen are reporting a decent Catfish bite at the West Trailhead lot. The Reservoir is OPEN to BOATING. The Inlet is OFF and the Outlet is ON.
North Sterling 

Staunton

As of 8/1/2018. Fishing should be pretty fun at Staunton as they typically stock the lakes first week of the month. For stocked fish look for hungry fish cruising for worms and PowerBait. Competition will be high so get their attention with bright colored baits or lures. Both ponds are typically stocked the first week of each month starting in May, with rainbow trout. Our ADA accessible fishing pier is complete and ready to be fished from. Please contact the park about how we can provide an accessible fishing experience. Due to construction access to the ponds is is currently available from the Ranch Hand Group Picnic parking area only. There is no public access below the dams on Elk Creek Road. Do not drop people or equipment off at this location. Violators will be ticketed. From more information contact staff at 303-816-0912
Staunton

Bear Creek

As of 9/28/2018, the Creek is in a better condition lately as the nightly temperatures have come into play. Flows are still low so be aware during those hot days and especially during the afternoon hours that the water temperatures do not reach over 66 degrees. Dry flies are on right now such as Parachute Adams and Elk Haired Caddis. Reports of blue winged olives are also coming in as we approach fall so make sure you have some ready for when a hatch starts. Terrestrials are also a good choice for your dry in a hopper dropper set up. Flows: below 4 CFS (9/28/2018) 
Bear Creek

Deckers and Cheeseman Canyon

As of 10/5/2018, the flows have been straight as an arrow and have not changed much at all. This could be really good if this continues as the historical averages level out this time of year to a discharge very close to what we are currently seeing. Given the warm, summer temperatures and low snowpack, this will be fairly rare for most rivers in the state. The report is going to be fairly similar as last weeks besides the fact that we are getting closer to brown trout spawning season and fall fishing. Some REDDS might be apparent as they are in other portions of the South Platte so be careful when wading. Hatches of blue winged olives and midges are still coming off as well as tricos on the warmer days. Hopper dropper rigs could still work as well so if the indicator rig is spooking fish, try something lighter and use a fly as the indicator. Barr’s emerger, trico spinners, Elk Haired Caddis and Mercury Flashback RS2”s are all getting fish right now. Flows: 152 CFS (10/4/2018) 
Deckers and Cheeseman Canyon

South Platte - Charlie Meyers

As of 10/5/2018, the fishing at the Dream is in fall mode. The kokanee are getting pretty heavy in the river but are mainly in the lower portions closer to Eleven Mile Reservoir. Kokanee are going to be primarily focused on one thing and that’s spawning. They have no patience for a big, red San Juan or a large, red Copper john so think big and bright to get them agitated for a bite. The lake run browns are starting to appear but not in large numbers yet as we probably have several weeks for that to hit peak season. A few sporadic hatches, mid-day, will appear such as tricos and blue winged olives. The trout are focusing on nymphs although you might see a bit of topwater action. Underwater flies that are showing success are scuds, smaller midges in the #20-22 sizes, and baetis in the #18 or smaller range. There are a couple of important points to note especially for this time of year on the Dream. Number 1, is the browns are starting to spawn and a few REDDS are already apparent so be aware of lighter colored rock bottom where the trout have cleared a space to lay eggs, avoid walking around them and leave the browns alone. An egg pattern below a REDD for scavengers works well but be sure you cast low enough below the REDD so you do not accidentally hook or harass one of the spawners. Number 2, we all share this river, no one owns it. This time of year will bring a lot of anglers as it’s a fantastic place to fish with the opportunities it provides. It is easy for one to get competitive for space and fishing opportunities but remember a good angler can accommodate to the conditions which includes the crowds and still find ways to catch fish. Be patient and friendly with your fishing neighbors and report any fishing violations to a wildlife officer. Flows: 120 CFS (10/4/2018)
South Platte - Charlie Meyers 

Cache la Poudre

As of 10/5/2018, the flows have remained pretty much the same but keep in mind it has been about 50 CFS below the historical average which is about half the discharge as we typically see this time of year. With the lower flows, the stream will be very clear and trout alert so you will need to be stealthy. Small dries are working well right now such as blue winged olive patterns and tricos. Baetis pattern nymphs are a good choice such as a smaller Juju baetis. On cloudy days remember to use dull colored patterns and during high light conditions tie on a colorful pattern such as a Flashback Juju baetis or pheasant tail. Don’t be afraid to try some smaller streamers such as a Thin Mint or other Wooly Bugger patterns. Flows: 40 CFS near Canyon mouth and 62.7 CFS at Fort Collins (10/4/2018) Flows: 35 CFS near Canyon mouth and 49 CFS at Fort Collins (9/14/2018) 
Cache la Poudre 

Waterton Canyon

As of 10/5/2018, the flows in the canyon have dropped a bit but still remain close to the averages and past weeks. For the best action the further up the canyon you go, the better it will get. If you have never been to Waterton, there is a dirt road leading up through the canyon so taking a bike will get you up there faster if fishing is your priority. Bug selection is going to remain similar until we start seeing more drastic changes to the weather and daylight hours keep decreasing. Try some hoppers and terrestrials as indicators or a stimulator dropped with various midges and baetis patterns as your droppers. Shift everything to a little smaller than earlier in September especially hoppers if you decide to use one. Flows: 116 CFS (10/4/2018) 
Waterton Canyon 

Clear Creek

As of 10/5/2018, the flows are constant and will most likely remain the same through the fall season. The flows are significantly lower than the historical averages so fish will be a little more stacked and easily spooked. During the warmer days you will still be able to get away with most of the summer patterns. Terrestrials can still be good indicators for hopper dropper rigs although the takes on your hopper will presumably be fewer than previous months. Copper Johns, zebra midges and pheasant tails will all work as droppers. As we get more into October, nymph selections will need to be smaller. Be on the lookout for some trico and blue winged olive hatches. Flows: 52 CFS (10/4/2018) 
Clear Creek

Conditions Report - Southeast Colorado

Arkansas River-Lake Pueblo

As of 10/5/2018, the fishing has been good as we approach fall and should continue to pick up. The tailwater recently experienced a dip in flow but is now back up to the historical averages. The blue winged olive activity is starting and you will still see some midge and trico hatches in strong numbers. Caddis and aquatic moths should be considered as a dry fly option as well. Guides are recommending Psuedo Baetis and Red Bodied Attractors for this time of year and make sure to wait and see consistent surface activity before switching to dries. Deep nymph rigs are going to be the best producers throughout the day so work on your presentations to get the bites. Flows: 157 CFS (10/4/2018) 
Lake Pueblo State Park

Trinidad Reservoir

As of 10/4/2018, the lake is at 697 surface acres with a surface elevation of 6181.33. Surface water temperatures are around 62 degrees. Shore fishermen are catching trout on homemade dough bait, PowerBait in green and worms all along the south shore, which has also been decent with all species of fish. The river at Reilly Canyon has slowed down to a trickle while heavy willows and vegetation have emerged around the lake. The most action for fish is occurring in the early mornings and late evenings. Boaters have done well-targeting walleye. Smallmouth bass are being caught early in the morning and late evening hours as well. Trout are proving to be the most active and being caught almost all hours of the day. Worm harnesses and crankbaits have worked well. Fish are being found 10-15 feet. 
Trinidad Reservoir

Lake Pueblo

As of 10/4/2018, the surface temperature is around 69 degrees and slowly dropping as the days are shorter and the nights are getting cooler. This is certainly good news as the fishing is only getting better. Fishing overall has been fair lately. Bass fishing is starting to pick up every day. Anglers are having success with crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics. Wipers are going to be tough in the fall as they disperse along the banks and mudflats chasing the leftover shad but if you cover a lot of shoreline, you will have a good chance to get some nice catches. It is recommended using silver spoons which will allow you to hit bottom and test different depths to find them. Walleye fishing has been fair as well with a few smaller walleye beginning to move up into shallower water especially in the early mornings when the water is cooler. 
Lake Pueblo

John Martin Reservoir

This 8,900-acre reservoir is located west of Gunnison. As of 10/5/2018, reports remain similar for the fishing here at Blue Mesa. Honest opinion would be to check in with a local bait shop or guide and see where they have had success as reports coming in are slow to fair. With that said, the fishing will get better probably sooner than later as we see a cold front approaching this weekend which will bring in more drastic seasonal changes. Look for lake trout to become increasingly active as the peak spawning season approaches. Pike are also going to be more active and start to move around more with the cooler temperatures as they hunt to stock up before winter. Elk Creek boat ramp is closed for the season. Anglers can check on current conditions and boat ramp inspection schedules by contacting the Curecanti National Recreation Area at (970-641-2337).
John Martin Reservoir State Park

Lathrop State Park

As of 8/6/2018 the surface temperature at Martin Lake is approximated at 72 degrees. With temperatures rising to around 90 degrees or more, the fishing has been abundant during early mornings and late evenings. Pike have been the most popular catch during the summer months using fake Smelt. Smelt is a very small fish similar to a minnow. With the frequent rain we have been getting during the evenings, trout have been very active during these times. Trout in Martin Lake have been known to be feeding on power bait or night crawlers. Largemouth Bass have also been another popular fish being caught, especially with crayfish lures and shallow water lures. The surface temperature at Horseshoe Lake is approximated at 69 degrees. The most popular fish Horseshoe has to offer is the infamous Tiger Muskie. The largest Tiger Muskie recorded at Horseshoe Lake was 46 inches long and weighed at 25 pounds. With reports from fisherman on the lake, crappie and trout have been the most caught here. Smallmouth Bass have been another frequent catch using Sammy lures and Spinner bait in the evenings. 
Lathrop

Pikeview Reservoir

Located off of Garden of the Gods Rd and just East of I 25, this reservoir has just about all the typical species of fish found in Colorado. From warm water fish like largemouth bass to other species such as trout and pike – this small, urban reservoir has it all. As of 8/10/2018 fishing reported as decent to slow. When recently stocked the fishing will be good but during these warmer days fish have been lethargic and deep. Look to mix up the techniques/lures and fish during the cooler times of the day. This reservoir packs some resident fish that have avoided the “hook” over the years and can reach very decent sizes. Throw them something that they don’t see every day to spark their curiosity, you could get a taker and be on our next catch of the week!  
Pikeview Reservoir

Catamount Reservoirs 

As of 10/5/2018, the weather, especially nightly temperatures, have been affecting the conditions at the lake recently. The hatches and terrestrials are tapering off and it will be interesting to see if they are apparent after this weekend and early next week’s cold front that is coming. Saturday through Tuesday are showing nightly temperatures that get below freezing. If you are curious, this weekend could be one of those trips that the tests your grit but pays off with great catches. Fall is when the lake trout spawn so they will be headed to the shallows or at least up from the depths. You might still need to get fairly deep so vary your retrievals. Although the spring and fall water temperatures can be similar, there are fewer hatches and other fish spawning in the fall so the food source is scarcer. Lake trout will still be curious so test out different waters to tease lake trout that could be in the area. Your retrievals should not be consentient. Try different speeds and pauses until you get a lake trout to commit. 
Catamount Reservoirs 

Upper Arkansas 

As of 10/5/2018, the river is flowing low and clear but the pseudo blue winged olive hatches are very strong as well as the fishing. The terrestrials in the area are still around and you will also get some takes on the staples such as caddis, and pale morning duns. Hopper dropper rigs are a good call in early or late hours of the day but throughout the majority of the fishing hours. switch to a nymphing rig. Pseudo hatches are one of the stronger hatches especially on the cloudy days so stop in a local fly shop to collect some good patterns to put on your nymph rigs. Pre-spawn is close for the browns so be prepared for the streamer bite and test out some good holding waters during cloudy days. Flows: 200 CFS (10/1/2018) Flows: 204 CFS (9/14/2018) 
Upper Arkansas – Buena Vista 

Conditions Report - Metro Denver Area

Aurora Reservoir

This 762-acre impoundment is located off of E. Quincy Avenue, two miles east of E-470. As of 10/5/2018, the fishing outlook is promising. Anticipate the fishing to start picking up considerably this month so be patient! Trout fishing from shore is slow to fair with a few reports of some rainbows caught in the 2-4 pound range. Some trout are being caught from the dam and in the Marina cove using PowerBait. Boaters reporting fair to good conditions on trout trolling with crawlers and lures. Perch action is slow to fair with a few good reports from boaters using jigs. Walleye action is currently slow to fair. A handful of reports of walleye being caught using bottom bouncers and jigs. Restricted to electric motors only. For more information call 303-326-8425. Park hours October 6:30am-7:30pm.
Aurora Reservoir

Cherry Creek

This 881-acre impoundment is located in Cherry Creek State Park, in Aurora. There are two entrances to the park, the east entrance off S. Dayton St. and the west entrance off S. Parker Rd. As of 10/5/2018, the report is much like Chatfield’s unfortunately. Fishing has been slow for many guides and anglers as late summer and fall struggle for power causing temperatures to bounce all over the place. The report looks more favorable as we have colder weather ahead of us. The shad should also start to die off with the colder temperatures which makes for less feeding opportunities for the walleye and a better chance they look at our lures and bait more seriously. Look for the walleye to prowl shallower waters, either suspended or closer to shore which also means trolling and fishing next to shorelines should improve. Varying your tactics with retrievals, trolling speeds, size of bait and lures while staying close to the go-to shad imitations are recommended. Local guides and tackle shops can assist with particulars to the lure and bait sizes and rig setups as the current conditions shift. 
Cherry Creek Reservoir

Quincy Reservoir

As of 10/5/2018, the bass fishing is rated as slow to fair. Try fishing soft plastics outside of the weed lines. All other species slow or no reports. Park Hours for October 6:30am-7:30pm. Restricted to artificial flies and lures only. Electric motors only and hand launched watercraft only. Trailers and vehicles prohibited in the water. For more information call 303-326-8424.Quincy will close for the season October 31st!
Quincy Reservoir

Chatfield Reservoir

This 1,356 impoundment is located in Chatfield State Park. As of 10/4/2018, the current water temperature is 61 degrees and expect that to drop significantly as we approach next week with the cold front coming through the area. The fishing over the past week slowed, especially for the walleye. The trolling that previously brought in some good numbers has taken a hit and guides are reporting low catch numbers. The warmer days we had this past week may be the main culprit as the water temperatures increased a bit, pushing the walleye down to deeper waters. Early morning is going to be the best bet as that is when water temperatures are closure to what we like to see them at, about 60 degrees. Look for this cold front to bring in more favorable conditions by encouraging the walleye to shallower waters to feed again. 
Chatfield Reservoir

Conditions Report - Northwest Colorado

Rifle Gap Reservoir

As of 10/4/2018, fishing has been decent with some good sizes being reported. Rainbow and cutthroat trout are found in East Rifle Creek which flows through Rifle Falls. Fish up to 19 inches long have been reported, with 6-9 inch fish being about the average size. With water this size, a hopper dropper rig will be a good idea until we see several days that contain nightly temperatures below freezing. Dull colored nymphs have been doing well. Rooster tails and other spinners have been producing well for the spin casting angler. Bait, except for live fish, can be used. 
Rifle Gap Reservoir

Vega

As of 9/23/2018, all three boat ramps are CLOSED for the season. Inspections must still be conducted on any hand launchable watercraft with a motor. The ANS inspection station will be open from 8am to 3:30pm for motorized watercraft requiring an inspection. If at any time it is closed, please come to the Visitor Center for motor inspections. Please call the park for additional information (970) 487-3407. The visitor center is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Vega

James M. Robb

As of 9/21/2018, the trout fishing has slowed down with the warm weather but fishing for sun fish and blue gill is on. Look for trout to pick back up when temperatures cool back down. All lakes are expected to be stocked in the fall when conditions allow. Please ensure the responsible and ethical release of fish. Trash cans are available to dispose of fishing line.  
James M. Robb State Park

Stagecoach State Park

As of 10/5/2018, the fishing has remained more or less consistent although the somewhat warm week tapered things off some. Look for it to pick back up however and take advantage. Stagecoach houses some trophy sized fish especially pike. Work along the weed beds with big inline spinners, big Mepps, and spinner baits. Pike will be picking up their feeding habits more and more as fall approaches and are looking to ambush prey. The trout fishing is also picking up. Gitzits, Dare Devils, and Kastmasters are working from shore and drift casting. Trolling with small, shallow diving Rapalas can also get some trout and might even tempt a wandering pike. 
Stagecoach Reservoir

Blue River

As of 10/5/2018, the flows have been a bit all over the place with the recent bumps then drops back to about 50 CFS. When or if the flows increase again, fish the banks where the slack water is obvious. The Mysis shrimp and baetis emerger patterns are going to catch fish but more importantly, make sure to fish stealthily and sight fish before casting blindly. Specific patterns guides are recommending are TSO midges #20-24, Brooks Sprout Midge Emerger #22-24, and a well presented Low Water Baeitis around the size #18. Flows: 54.8 CFS (10/4/2018) 
Blue River - Silverthorne 

Frying Pan River

As of 10/5/2018, the flows are steadily dropping but still above the averages. The wade fishing should improve some as the flows decreased. Egg patterns and midges are going to bring success as well as #18-22 bling midges, rainbow warriors, and Mysis are also good choices. Blue winged olives can still be found during the mid-morning and cloudier days. The browns are getting aggressive as well so streamers would be a good option to get some big and hungry spawning browns but be aware of their REDDS. Flows: CFS 184 (10/4/2018) 
Frying Pan - Ruedi 

Colorado River

As of 10/5/2018, the flows have been on a steady drop so stay tuned to see where we end up before it steadies off for the fall and winter months. It appears the flows are going to remain a lot lower than the averages and are about 400 CFS lower right now which is about half. For best educated knowledge of specific techniques for these conditions, call or stop in a local fly shop in the area as these conditions do not come around often. Some recommended surface flies include blue winged olives, tricos, midges and caddis. Dry-dropper rigs are still a good option to test both spectrums of the water column but make sure your dropper gets low where the fish are usually cruising. Large caddis nymphs as well as midges and blue winged olives are good dropper patterns. Flows: 459 CFS (10/4/2018) 
Colorado River

Lake John and the Buttes

As of 9/21/2018, the fishing has been great at Lake John and the Buttes! Both shore and boat fisherman are doing well at Lake John but the boaters are reporting a bit more success. At Lake John, the shore anglers are reporting that the moss and weed beds are dying back with the cooler temperatures. Nightcrawlers have been a huge success along with garlic PowerBait or in the pink colors. Boat fisherman are reporting success with flies, Tasmanian Devils, and Kastmasters. Very good fishing reports from the Delaney’s have come in these past couple of weeks for boat fisherman. Most of them reported gold being the color of choice for landing the most fish. The weed beds at Cowdry are still high along the eastern banks making it difficult for shore anglers. The average high is 82 degrees and the average low is 44 degrees. Fishing is best right now in the early and late hours of the day. In the morning from 6 am to noon has been the most productive time to fish, with the evening hours being the next best window for good fishing action. During the heat of the day, the water temperatures increase to a point that it pushes the fish to cooler, deeper waters. Please don’t forget that we have a general store here and bait & tackle. We also have cabins available if you are wanting to stay out at the lake! Call us for a reservation. 
Lake John and the Buttes 

Harvey Gap State Park 

As of 10/4/2018, the fishing has been good at Harvey Gap. A lot of perch of all sizes are being reported. The pike are out prowling the shorelines and deeper waters as anglers are reporting good catches. The trout fishing has also been good recently and should get better. Try some brown or pumpkin colored tube jigs to fish for decent sized, hungry trout. Pike will be found at varying depths but start the focus on the shallow waters then work deeper. Spinner baits are good to scan different depths as well as inline spinners. Trout will also take an inline spinner medium to small sized which gives you the chance for pike or trout. 
Harvey Gap 

Conditions Report - Southwest Colorado

Blue Mesa Reservoir

This 8,900-acre reservoir is located west of Gunnison. As of 9/28/2018, the lake has really slowed down in terms of fishing. The low water levels might be the main culprit but also the month of September has been historically tough for fishing according to local guides. The salmon are up in the Gunnison River now which could be an alternative to fishing the reservoir until the conditions improve. Local anglers are anticipating the bite to really improve starting middle of next month so be patient. Elk Creek boat ramp closed on Monday for the season. Anglers can check on current conditions and boat ramp inspection schedules by contacting the Curecanti National Recreation Area at (970-641-2337).
Blue Mesa Reservoir

Mancos

As of 8/31/2018, the water is very low and the shoreline is muddy except for along the dam. The weather forecast for this weekend looks fairly consistent with warmer temperatures and cloud cover coming and going but not much in terms of actual precipitation. Mancos is a great place for consistent action from trout and yellow perch. Most of the trout action is from 10-12 inch fish but there's also a very good chance to catch an 18-20 inch trout or a few 12 inch plus perch. Mancos also offers great opportunities for kids to catch a variety of species of fish. Most bait anglers are finding success using PowerBait, eggs, and nightcrawlers. Fishing just off of the bottom or under a slip bobber have both been working well lately. For a chance at the yellow perch and trout, try using a small jig fished under a bobber on a long leader and tipped with a piece of worm. Casting or trolling typical in-line spinners such as Panther Martins and Mepps from boats is another approach at the trout that has been working. 
Mancos State Park

Taylor Park Reservoir

As of 10/5/2018, much like Blue Mesa, the fishing has not changed a whole lot but should improve shortly. Some guides say that September and early October can prove to be the more difficult times to fish during the ice off season. The low water levels and high summer temperatures we have seen this summer have not helped. The upcoming cold front should certainly change things, presumably for the better. Look for the lake trout to begin their spawning rituals near graveled shorelines in 6-10 feet of water and for the pike to prowl shallower waters as well. Try some 4-5 inch inline spinners, top or shallow diving jerkbaits, or even a spinner bait if you are trying to explore depths to find them. 
Taylor Park Reservoir

Navajo Reservoir

As of 9/28/2018, the fishing at Lake Navajo continues to be really good. The lake water level is at an elevation of 6,021 feet and the water temperature at the boat ramp in Arboles is about 64 degrees. Smallmouth fishing remains good with many bass in the 2-3 pound range being reported. Some large pike have also been recorded as they are cruising the shorelines more heavily with the colder temperatures. Fishing for catfish is good with bait rigged along the bottom. Fishing for carp on top water has also been reported as good for both spinning and fly anglers.
Navajo State Park

Ridgway Reservoir 

As of 9/28/2018, the fishing has really slowed down at the reservoir. Water levels are about 50 feet down which is a record. Fish will be concentrated and stressed more than usual. With that said, the fall season should have a positive impact on the trout. Not much coming in at all for smallmouth fishing but that does not mean you cannot find them stacked in some holes, around rocky outcrops or points. The presentation will have to be a bit slower and make sure to use smaller lures as they will be more lethargic. Pa-Co-Chu-Puk River has been fishing well at the moment due to the seasonal changes. Blue winged olives will be hatching and streamers will also be a hot item for the trout. A dry dropper set up could be a good rig which allows you to scan the different water columns to decipher if the trout are hitting the surface or mainly eating nymphs and midges in the subsurface.  
Ridgway Reservoir 

Gunnison River

As of 10/5/2018, the flows are fairly consistent, running anywhere right under 200 CFS over the past week. Blue winged olives are coming off during the gloomy days. The fishing is definitely picking up with cooler temperatures and fall conditions. The kokanee salmon are spawning in force up the river. Red egg patterns can catch both salmon and scavenging trout. Midges in cream, red and green colors are popular right now as well as the occasional terrestrial such as a carpenter ant or Sandwich Hoppers. Streamers are also picking up. Guides suggest using sculpins in brown or white bellied patterns in the size 6. Flows: 192 CFS (10/4/2018) 
Gunnison River