Conditions Report - Statewide

Statewide Conditions 

Our weather forecast appears to be very similar to last week’s report for much of the state. In general, it looks like a cool Friday followed by some warm and sunny weekend days. Early next week the reports suggest we are going to get another cold front with a good chance of precipitation west of the Front Range. For rivers and streams, this should bring in some good fishing and active, feeding fish. Streamers should be something to exploit especially on the cloudy days it looks like we will be getting Monday – Wednesday. Blue winged olives will also be a little more prevalent on the cloudy days so be on the lookout for their hatches. I know we have mentioned this in previous reports but if you have been thinking about making an alpine lake fishing trip, this could be one of the last weekends of the year to get some good action especially for topwater bugs. Depending on the fish species, the lake fishing should also pick up in general for spinning and bait anglers. Fish are going to be moving around more for spawning activities, stocking up for the winter, or just becoming more active as they feel more comfortable with the cooler water temperatures. Bass will start to become a little more lethargic but that does not mean that you cannot bring in some decent catches. Educate yourselves on some late season tactics as fall can be a great opportunity to expand on your techniques and produce some of the best fishing days of the year. Be safe, best of luck, and most importantly, take some pictures to show off your success! 
Colorado Fishing Atlas

Conditions Report - Northeast Colorado

Eleven Mile State Park

As of 9/28/2018, the trout fishing is excellent just like last report! Anglers are landing some really decent sized fish now and most of the action is being reported later in the day. The water has cooled down enough at night that the fish are in feeding mode to start preparing for the winter. The same Daredevils and ACME Kasmasters are catching some monster trout. Drift casting and trolling from boats has produced well but shore anglers are also getting good catches when covering a little water. Pike fishing has also picked up some and is reported as decent and should only get better with each passing day. Gitzits in brown or pumpkin colors are bringing in good sized trout as well as a few pike here and there. For the pike specifically, trout and perch pattern rubber or plastic swim baits are still bringing in the bigger fish as well as spinner baits. The pike are starting to show up more in the shallows where the water is a bit warmer so cover good real estate by casting parallel to shore where your lure will spend more time in the strike zones. Kokanee fishing is poor and nothing new to report. 
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 9/28/2018, the fishing at Spinney has improved much like Eleven Mile as we approach fall. The last report showed Spinney being a bit inconsistent but that hump appears to be ending as the fish are being less finicky and more focused on fattening up before winter. Also, note the browns are preparing to spawn so they will be more aggressive. As the browns get more active and aggressive for their spawn, this is a good time to break out some trout pattern lures, tube jigs or streamers. Anything that could agitate a territorial or cranky brown could yield some big catches and hard fighters! A successful, unconventional method for fly fishing in lakes especially during windy days is using a green or brown bead headed wooly bugger in a size #4-6 trailed by a chironomid. Tie about 20 inches of 4 x fluorocarbon to your leader and attach your wooly bugger, this will allow it to sink quicker. Trail the wooly bugger with about 2 and a half feet of 4 or 5 x fluorocarbon to your chironomid #14-18. The wooly bugger will often attract a curious trout and the trailing midge or nymph will actually get the fish to take the bite. This tactic gets the flies deeper and is easier to cast in the wind than a lighter rig. Try using a slow and steady retrieval. 
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 9/28/2018, fishing is starting to pick up some especially for the smallmouth bass. The cooler temperatures are encouraging them to move around a lot more and into the shallower waters. This gives the shore anglers a better chance as you can now start casting more parallel along the shore to cover more strike friendly territory. Using Ned rigs with pumpkin or watermelon colored plastics are reporting some good success. During the full moon period, many anglers were reporting some good walleye catches as they moved to shallower water to hunt for shad. Now the walleye are starting to move back into the deeper water. Boaters have marked them suspended 25-35 feet over almost 80 feet of water. Jigging and slabbing from boats has brought some in. The walleye will eventually come in closer to shore but as of now, they are still hovering over the deep water. . 
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 9/28/2018, the fishing remains really good as flows are at a decent discharge and hatches are abundant. Currently guides are seeing hatches of Yellow Sallies, blue winged olives, tricos and terrestrials. The biggest thing to be aware of is the flows. When they are bumped, fishing should be good as long as you get your rig down to the fish. When flows are cut down some, fish will be spooky so be stealthy and systematic on where, when and how you cast to the feeding fish. On warmer, bright days get the nymph rig out and fish the deeper runs and pockets that still have a decent flow of water going through. Some flies producing right now are Copper Ribbed RS2’s, smaller sized Pat’s Rubber Legs, caddis imitations and pale morning dun emergers. The faster moving and oxygenated water will contain more feeding fish than the deep runs and holes. Flows: 163 CFS (9/21/2018) 
Deckers and Cheeseman Canyon

South Platte - Charlie Meyers

As of 9/28/2018, not much has changed in terms of lake run trout making the trek upstream from Eleven Mile. The warm, fall temperatures may have an impact on the timing of their spawn. Guides are guessing the run could be delayed this year so stayed tuned for reports of big browns making the swim. The resident fishing has been decent, however, with reports of fish being caught on small midge or Griffith’s gnat patterns in the #22 size. Other flies working right now include black tube midges, pheasant tails, and some Black Beauties all in the #20-22 sizes. Water clarity is a bit off and winds are high in the plains areas as usual. This time of the year the Colorado elements will test your dedication but the potential rewards will keep you coming back. Flows: 122 CFS (9/28/2018) 
South Platte - Charlie Meyers 

Cache la Poudre

As of 9/28/2018, fall conditions have appeared on the canyon stretch of the river. Clearwater, cooler temperatures and a drop in flows make for some fun fly fishing. Small attractors and naturals will get the fish’s attention as well as some late morning trico and blue winged olive hatches for later in the day. The caddis are still hatching during the cooler hours of the day and hoppers will still be present in the canyon for a couple more weeks or until we start getting some freezes. This is also a great time to start breaking out the streamers especially on the cloudy days as the brown trout are starting to get aggressive and prepare for their spawning season. Flows: 50 CFS near Canyon mouth and 54 CFS at Fort Collins (9/28/2018) Flows: 35 CFS near Canyon mouth and 49 CFS at Fort Collins (9/14/2018) 
Cache la Poudre 

Waterton Canyon

As of 9/28/2018, the fishing report is mainly the same, mayfly patterns, terrestrials such as Hippie Stompers are on, and caddis in the #14-18 range are all getting feeding fish. Droppers to consider are Copper Johns, Hare’s Ears, and Juju baetis. Move around the river and be on the lookout for feeding fish. If you are not having luck in one area, do not stay too long and move around. One thing to be aware of this time of year is the bear activity. There have been several reports of bear sightings right on the river so be mindful and make noise as you trek through vegetation so you do not accidentally ambush one. They are packing in the calories for winter hibernation right now so they can be active all hours of the day this time of year as they forage heavily. Flows: 133 CFS (9/28/2018) 
Waterton Canyon 

Clear Creek

As of 9/28/2018, the fishing conditions at Clear Creek are pretty good right now. Flows are below the historical averages but still at a decent level especially since the nightly temperatures have dropped keeping the water temperatures at a healthy degree for the fish. Midges and caddis will be the main storyline for the Creek right now. Darker colored nymphing rigs have done really well. Water is clear so tread lightly and do some sight fishing to spot the feeders. Green Copper Johns, Tungsten Pheasant Tails and Hare’s Ears in the #14-16 sizes are all popular and productive right now. Hopper droppers are a good idea in the afternoon hours but also be ready for a dry fly rig in the cooler hours if you see some caddis hatches. Flows: 30 CFS (9/28/2018) 
Clear Creek

Conditions Report - Southeast Colorado

Arkansas River-Lake Pueblo

As of 9/28/2018, the flows have been improving and close to the averages at this point. This is great news for anglers as there was a period recently where the water was so low and temperatures so high that the CPW had to close this section of the river until conditions improved. If flows continue to be at this level, expect some good fall fishing to come our way. Do keep in mind that Pueblo’s weather remains hotter than a lot of the Front Range so be mindful of water temperatures, they can still get up to that 66-degree mark which is not good for trout fishing. Dry dropper combos are reported as being very successful. Guides suggest using a Parachute Adams in the #18-22 size followed by a Barr’s emerger in the same #18-22 size. As we get cooler temperatures, the fish will start to focus on midges so feel free to switch to a midge if the bite on your emerger is slow. Streamers will also pick up. This section of the Arkansas has a plethora of baitfish and fingerlings that inhabit the waters. Decent sized articulated streamers in various colors and patterns will be a good option as we see more and more of these fall conditions. Flows: 153 CFS (9/28/2018) 
Lake Pueblo State Park

Trinidad Reservoir

As of 9/14/2018, the lake is at 703 surface acres with a surface elevation of 6,182.30 feet. Surface water temperatures are around 68 degrees. Shore anglers are catching trout and many other species of fish on homemade dough bait, PowerBait in the green colors, and worms all along the south shore. The river at Reilly Canyon has slowed down to a trickle while heavy willows and other vegetation has emerged around the lake. The most action for fish is occurring in the early mornings and late evenings. Some catfish are being reported around the inlet which is now off color due to the recent rains up stream. Boaters have done well targeting walleye while smallmouth are being caught early in the morning and late evening. Trout are being caught during all hours. Worm harnesses and crank baits have worked well for many species of fish when fishing in deeper water, around 15 feet or more. 
Trinidad Reservoir

Lake Pueblo

As of 9/28/2018, the surface water temperature is around 66 degrees and about 60 percent full. Fishing, in general, has been picking up for most species especially wipers. Anglers who have been fishing at night have been having success with shad imitations in the 10 to 20 feet depth range. The recent full moon helped spark the feeding of the wipers but they could still be chasing the baitfish in the later hours of the day these next couple of weeks. Walleye have been fairly slow. Much like Chatfield and Cherry Creek, the shad population at Pueblo Reservoir was very high this year so the walleye have had a very plentiful food source making it tough for angling. If you can locate the shad movement patterns, you will be able to find the feeding walleye. Focus on reactionary bites, use shad imitations that have a lot of action. The catfish bite has been more or less average. A few anglers have reported some good catches along the west end fishing area with the typical catfish bait rigs. 
Lake Pueblo

John Martin Reservoir

As of 7/23/2018 due to a low water year throughout the state and the Arkansas River drainage water levels are dropping and the fishing has been tougher. Walleye fishing is slow with water temperatures in the mid 70’s. Fishing for white bass and wiper can be good if anglers are able to figure out where the bait that these fish are feeding on is located. Crappie fishing has also slowed drastically as the water temperatures have forced the fish into deeper water.
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 9/28/2018, fishing is getting better and better for the Pikes Peak reservoirs as their closures near. The terrestrials are still apparent but their days are numbered as we reach cooler nights and the possibility for freezes increase. Lake trout are starting to come up from the depths in search of food to fatten up for the winter. Try using a Rapala’s Countdown to explore different depths until you start to find how deep the trout are holding. Decent sized spoons and Kastmasters are also good lures to try when testing different depths when locating fish. If you can get out on a belly boat or canoe, you can cover some good water and search where the trout are hiding and how deep while also doing some mid water casting for rainbows. 
Catamount Reservoirs 

Upper Arkansas 

As of 9/28/2018, the fishing remains decent in this portion of the Arkansas. The occasional stonefly and caddis is still seen in areas of the river but the more prevalent hatches are blue winged olives and afternoon mayflies which is making for some really fun dry fly fishing. Consider a double dry fly rig when you see consistent surface action and hatches. Hoppers are still around but their days are numbered in the high country so take advantage now. Dry flies to tie on include pale morning duns, Yellow Sallies, and blue winged olive patterns. If you want to drop a midge, guides are using Black Tube midges in the #20 size. Flows: 192 CFS (9/28/2018) 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 9/28/2018, the conditions have not changed much lately. Anticipate fishing to pick up the closer we get to October as fall fishing can sometimes be some of the best of the year! Trout fishing from shore is slow to fair. 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 from boats using jigs. Walleye action is currently slow to fair with 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 September 6:00am-8:00pm.
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 9/28/2018, many anglers are finding it tough to bring in the walleye right now. This is mainly due to the seasonal effects that are happening on the water, in particular, the shad. Guides recommend changing your summer tactics and gear more towards the fall as the shad are now behaving differently and so are the walleye. Instead of looking for the larger schools of walleye, search for transition points from deeper to ledges of shallower water. Basically what is happening is the shad are coming over these points to get to the shallow waters as the walleye wait in ambush. There may be fewer numbers of walleye in these areas but you will find hungrier fish. Jig raps, spoons, and blades in shad imitations will be the ticket. These fish will trigger off of faster moving bait fish so using reactionary techniques will get their attention best. Take advantage of the windy days by going to wind-blown shorelines. The shad will be more concentrated and schooled together there and will attract good numbers of hungry walleye.  
Cherry Creek Reservoir

Quincy Reservoir

As of 9/28/2018, the bass fishing is rated as slow to fair. Try fishing chatter baits just outside the weed lines in 10-15 feet of water. All other species slow or no reports. Park Hours for September 6:00am-8:00pm. 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 Reservoir

Chatfield Reservoir

This 1,356 impoundment is located in Chatfield State Park. As of 9/28/2018, the walleye are spread out at the moment and fairly deep in at least 20-30 feet of water. The walleye are hunting the shad as the baitfish are moving around more recently due to the drop in temperatures. Smallmouth bite is really good right now, especially around the dam face. Swimbaits and rattle raps are getting good numbers of smallmouths. Trying some deeper running crankbaits or rattle raps around points could also temp some walleye that are on the prowl for shad retreating from the deeper waters. 
Chatfield Reservoir

Conditions Report - Northwest Colorado

Rifle Gap Reservoir

As of 8/7/2018 pike and trout are being caught throughout the lake. Bass fishing has been good near the Cedar Campground as well as near the dam. Keep in mind that there are a couple of fishing regulations that are specific to Rifle Gap: Walleye - Bag/possession limit= 1 fish Size= Must be 18 inches or greater All other species are same as the statewide regulations. 
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 9/28/2018, the late summer and early fall fishing are on at the reservoir! Many anglers are having luck and limiting out on rainbow trout at the Inlet, lot 14 through 16, Keystone Cove, and Morrison Cove. Successful anglers are primarily reporting good catches while using PowerBait, PowerGrubs, nightcrawlers, mealworms, spoons, jigs, and crankbaits. The tailwater fishing is good right now. The cooler temperatures and decent flows are allowing the fish to feel comfortable as they start to stock up for the winter months. Fish have been reported rising for blue winged olive hatches and biting on various emergers like the Barr’s and U.V. emergers. Streamers are also producing nice fish in particular leach patterns. 
Stagecoach Reservoir

Blue River

As of 9/28/2018, the flows haven’t budged so the report will be more or less the same as the past couple of weeks. The overall fishing report is slow to fair probably due to the lower flows and clear skies as these fish are picky and smart. Fall is in full swing in Summit County so the bug selection is changing a bit. The Mysis shrimp and baetis emerger patterns are still going to be key. Blue winged olive hatches have been reported from about 1-4 pm followed by a good spinner fall in the afternoons. Flossy worm patterns, TSO Midges in the #20-24 and Miracle midges have been getting some takers. Flows: 54 CFS (9/26/2018) 
Blue River - Silverthorne 

Frying Pan River

As of 9/28/2018, the Frying Pan is fishing excellent right now. Mayfly hatches are becoming more apparent as the higher water flows are clearing up the silt and water clarity is becoming better. Mysis will always be a good choice close to the dam and midges will be coming off during the sunny days. Recommended patterns include Rainbow Warriors, Brassies, and bling midges in the #18-20 sizes. Blue winged olives are also hatching so try some WD 50’s and RS2’s. The weather is looking to be fairly warm and sunny but some cloud coverage this weekend should improve the hatches and fish activity. Flows are great and weather decent so take advantage of these good conditions. Flows: CFS 298 (9/28/2018) 
Frying Pan - Ruedi 

Colorado River

As of 9/28/2018, the flows are down some but the river is still producing some great fishing. The fall conditions have really started to influence the fishing with blue winged olives now taking over the menu. Dry dropper rigs are doing well with various elk hair caddis patterns or stimulators being good dry fly options trailed by a Hare’s Ear or any caddis nymph with some weight on it. The streamer fishing is picking up by the day so take advantage on those cloudy days. Some suggested streamers include Barely Legal, Motor Oil or a Cheech Leech. Flows: 513 CFS (9/28/2018) 
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 

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 9/28/2018, the fishing has not improved much but the reports are better than Blue Mesa right now. The pike have been reported in the shallows as the fall temperatures have sparked their seasonal changes. They have been cruising in 8-10 feet of water which could present a great opportunity to fly fish for pike. Lake trout are in their spawning routine but will prove difficult to catch. Shallow water trolling with metallic colored spinners and spoons could entice a lake trout and also double up as a good option for some aggressive pike. There has not been much reported on the trout fishing but that should change here in the next few weeks
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 9/28/2018, flows are still well below the average but have remained fairly consistent over the past week and so have the fishing conditions. Obviously the seasonal changes are going to have a positive impact on the river so the fishing should continue to pick up as we head into October. Blue winged olives are hatching along the river in good numbers. For nymphing, Pheasant Tails and Two-Bit Hookers have been recommended by guides while Juju Baetis and RS2’s have been productive emergers. Water is very clear so make sure to take advantage of the sight fishing. Streamers are also coming more into play as we approach fall and many anglers using Autumn Splendors have been bringing in good catches. Flows: 183 CFS (9/28/2018) 
Gunnison River