High Country Angler | Winter 19

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Fishing the Dolores River Adventures in New Zealand

A look inside Landon Mayer's new book

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WINTER 2019 VOLUME 16 • ISSUE 1 MAGAZINE CONTENTS 06

HIDE AND SEEK

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HISTORY & ADVENTURE: BANK ON THE DOLORES

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BY LANDON MAYER

BY BRIAN LA RUE

SCIENCE-BASED CONSERVATION FOR THE DOLORES

BY DUNCAN ROSE

TROUT SMART SERIES: BROOK TROUT

BY PETER STITCHER

PRESIDENT’S LINE

BY CAM CHANDLER

TIME FOR CONGRESS TO SUPPORT OUR GREAT OUTDOORS

BY DAVID DRAGOO

A PERFECT DAY

BY HAYDEN MELLSOP

RECOVERY RECAP: GREENBACK CUTTHROATS

BY DAN OMASTA

ANGLING ADVENTURES IN NEW ZEALAND

BY COLORADO TU STAFF

AN EDUCATOR'S EXPERIENCE WITH TROUT IN THE CLASSROOM

BY BIANCA MCGRATH-MARTINEZ

COLORADO TU EVENTS CALENDAR

BY COLORADO TU STAFF

FIT TO BE TIED

BY JOEL EVANS

RING THE VICTORY BELLS!

BY COLORADO TU STAFF

STAND FOR PUBLIC LAND

BY CATHERINE BELME

HCA GEAR BAG

BY JACK TALLON

Q&A WITH GOVERNOR-ELECT JARED POLIS

BY HCA STAFF

COLORADO TU DONOR SPOTLIGHT

BY COLORADO TU STAFF

THE LAST CAST

BY JOHN NICKUM

High Country Angler • Winter 2019

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HCA Staff P U B LISHER S

J ac k Tallo n & Frank M ar tin

C O NTENT C ONSU LTANT L ando n M ayer

EDITO R IAL

Frank M ar t i n, M anagi ng Editor f rank@ hc am agaz ine.co m Landon Mayer, Editorial Consultant Ruthie Mar tin, Editor

ADV ER TISING

B r i an L a R ue, S ales & M a r keting b r ian@ hc am agaz i ne.co m D i rec t : ( 714) 944- 5676 K andily n M ar t i n, Ad S ales k andi ly n@ hc am agaz ine.com Cell: ( 719) 432- 8317 M ar k Shulm an, Ad S ales Cell: ( 303) 668- 2591 m ar k@ hc am agaz i ne.co m

DESIG N

David M ar tin, Creative Direc tor & Graphic D esigner aisthetadesign.com

P HOTO G RAP HY

Frank Martin, Landon Mayer, Brian LaRue, Angus Drummond

STAF F WRITER S

Frank Martin, Landon Mayer, Brian LaRue, Joel Evans, David Nickum, John Nickum, Peter Stitcher, Jeff Florence

Copyright 2017, High Country Angler, a division of High Country Publications, LLC. All rights reserved. Reprinting of any content or photos without expressed written consent of publisher is prohibited. Published four (4) times per year.

To add your shop or business to our distribution list, contact Frank Martin at frank@hcamagazine.com.

D i str i buted by H i gh Countr y Publi cati ons, L LC 730 Popes Valley D r i ve Colorad o Spr i ngs, Colorad o 809 1 9 FA X 719-593-0040 Published in cooperation with Colorado Trout Unlimited 620 Sixteenth Street, Suite 300 Denver, CO 80202 www.coloradotu.org

ON THE COVER: Photo by Landon Mayer

TOC PHOTO: Landon Mayer

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Winter 2019 • High Country Angler

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Hide Hi& Seek

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High Country Angler • Winter 2019

by Landon Mayer

www.HCAezine.com

H

unting trout is one of the most exciting things about fly fishing, because you never know how big—or often—a trophy can be found right around the corner.

You can time the season, day, weather, or time of day; it does not always ensure the chance of seeing the actual target. It is easy to say that the run looks fishy or holds a big fish when you don't see one. The key is often similar to a game hunter with that special elk or waterfowl call.

After spending time with many of the 50 anglers that contributed to the new book The Hunt for Giant Trout, and traveling to new waters that grow trophies, I truly understand that you can sometimes entice the trout into taking a sneak peak at your fly, and attract the visual of the fish. And let me tell you, some of these close encounters will make you feel like its a game of hide and seek!

Think big or opposite when trying to attract the fish. You are always hoping for the moment that the fish tries to kill your fly, but in many situations, the trout is just curious and will only look.

The beauty is that now you have a visual lock on where the fish is, and you can then work on get-

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ting the fish to commit. Sometimes it is matching the hatch, downsizing, or something even totally different, like low light.

The following tips are some of great ways I have learned to find hidden trout:

Supersize Your Dry It is hard to beat the thrill of fishing dries to large trout in hopes that you’ll see what could only be described as a toilet flushing when the tank trout swirls and destroys your bug.

In reality this can happen, but I also find that these wise trout are hesitant in many scenarios to break the water’s surface, because they have learned to avoid predators like birds from above.

This is what turned me onto searching for the visual: so many large fish coming up to nose the bug and then turning away.

It didn't matter if it was a high mountain lake, a raging tail water generating flows, or the slick waters of a spring creek: I would see the target, and then with a subsurface imitation, trigger the take where the fish felt safe to feed. Some of my favorite attracting dries are Cluster Midge #16-20, Amy’s Ant #10-14, Parachute Adams #12-18, Morrish

Winter 2019 • High Country Angler

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Mouse #4-6, and Crane Fly Adult #10-14. Try this approach the next time you see prime dry fly water, or after fishing a blitz hatch before moving to new water.

The Lead Nymph Nymphing is the most effec-

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High Country Angler • Winter 2019

tive way to catch fish year round, because a majority of a trout’s diet is consumed in sub-surface conditions. Not to mention that large trout are lazy by nature, and while they will chase and kill the next meal, it is more convenient to consume one that is delivered on what I envision as a conveyer

belt to their mouth. This is why I lead my two fly nymph rigs with an attracting imitation like my Mini Leech #16-18, Mini Leech Jig #12-16, Reece’s Fusion Nymph #16-18, Pats Rubber Leg #12-16, Barr’s Crane Fly #10-14, and Pat’s UV Scud #16-18.

The goal is to get the target to take the larger main bug, or have it come over to investigate and then see a more familiar small imitation like a Tube Midge #18-22, Ju Ju Beatis #18-20, or Buck Skin #18-20. Not only is this a great way to trigger fish, it is also a great way to learn what the trout’s feeding behavior is for that day and particular piece of water.

Light or Dark Meat If you fish streamers, you have at some point experienced a giant fish show up out of nowhere and chase your fly to the bank,

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only to not commit. I believe that it is because the fish moved from the more protected waters that it was hiding in, and then something made it spook. In the past I would think that all was lost, but now thanks to the work gathered for the new book, I know it can result in a second chance at the fish by delivering nymphs or big dries in the same zone.

One thing is for sure: after the fish did chase it is probably alert and ready for battle. This can result in a full on commitment to nymphs or dries that drift through the same zone. In searching for aggressive trout, I simplify my approach by throwing light and dark streamers to see if either color will trigger a response. You will know within three presentations through each primary color on different fly

lines. One floating line like Scientific Anglers Amplitude, Titan Long Floating Line, or the Sonar Sink Tip Cold.

My go to big bugs are Barr’s Meat Whistle, Chocklett’s Game Changer, Galloup’s Circus Peanut, and Wilkerson’s Lawn Dart. Lastly, mix up the retrieve with short, fast, long, and short strips. The longer the fly moves in the holding zone, the better chance you have to trig-

ger a look.

Paying your dues is part of the fun in hunting giant trout. However, when the trophy finally comes to hand, it is a glorious moment of respect from one predator to another, and it will forever change the way you view these amazing creatures. I wish you all the best in your pursuits for the New Year and beyond.

HC

About The Author Landon Mayer is a veteran Colorado guide and author of several books, including the recently released The Hunt for Giant Trout, from Stackpole Books. He has co-produced 2 fly fishing DVDs with John Barr, both available from Mad Trout Media. Visit Landon’s website at www.landonmayer.com and follow him on Instagram @landonmayerflyfishing.

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11

History & Adventure

Bank on the Dolores

by Brian La Rue 12

High Country Angler • Winter 2019

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Winter 2019 • High Country Angler

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I

love a good adventure! Especially when I can get everything on a road trip, with history, a covered wagon to call home, and of course, fly fishing! That’s just what I found this past Father’s Day when I took the family on my destination outing to experience the Dolores River—one of the few waters that’s always seemed to fly under my radar. Why I waited so long, I’ll never know, but you can be assured I’ll make it a regular destination for years to come.

For starters, it was a rough year in Southwestern Colorado. Yes, flows were low and fires were hampering access when I made the trip, but that didn’t stop the Dolores and the town of the same name from producing a fun time, sizable browns, and some great local grub.

Calling the Dolores River Campground home for a couple nights, we found ourselves a stone’s throw from the bank of the river and a very productive run.

We enjoyed a covered wagon 20 yards from willing browns, and it didn’t take long for Barrett, my son, and I to get into a handful of browns running 10 to 14 inches.

We used terrestrials and droppers in mid-June, and the fish, though flows were at historic flows, quickly found our offerings. Thank goodness we had rain each night! We fished upriver from the covered wagon for about 1.5 miles. We found every run or riffle, offering at least 2 to 3 feet of slower water, producing a handful of browns with a feisty, sizable brown stealing the show.

Barrett and I took turns on new water as we waded upriver, throwing a hopper and an elk hair caddis. He tossed an elk hair on an H2 while I continued to toss the new Mystic Reaper I reviewed last issue.

I saw what appeared to be a sizable fish in a plunge, and figured that he might want something special, so I waded back over to Barrett and told him to throw the hopper in the spot. We switched places and he tried his hopper. I didn’t tell him I’d seen a nice fish… just told him I wanted him to try first as the spot looked “fishy.”

On the first cast, the fish came up and Barrett was on. He fought

the fish and after the first swipe near the surface, Barrett said, “This is a good fish, Dad.” Considering we’d just caught and released a dozen in the 12- to 14-inch range, he knew this fish looked better. After two minutes fighting the fish and a couple almost nets, the fish found the net and Barrett admired his catch. The brown had a decent thickness to him and stretched about 17.5 inches. At 12 years old—it was his biggest brown to date. His best rainbow is still holding at 22 inches.

He was excited and ready to explore more. Then came my surprise. We fished up about another half mile when an older woman on an ATV high on the bank above said we were now on private property. Everything I read and was told about the Dolores made no mention of private property in this stretch, but I wasn’t going to argue, and we moved on. So I’d definitely say, check access just above town. We didn’t encounter any signs or fences. No matter, it was a great outing, but I had to visit with a local guide for more information.

“One of the best-selling points of fly fishing on the Dolores River is that it's a classic freestone river with a nice mixture of riffles and pools,” said Dr. Ed Nemanic from the Dolores River Campground—a fly-fishing

guide and Dolores River fly fishing veteran. “The Do- river from Dolores is next on my to-do list since it was lores River is still one of Colorado's little-known gems, closed with the fire. Plan a trip in the spring or around and it's an uncrowded and peaceful fishing spot. The Father’s Day. Check out the history and step back in downside is that there's not a wealth of public access time, but don’t forget to ask The Dolores River Campand it's up to the fisherman to know what is private vs. ground team for a stay in one of their covered wagons. public property. Fortunately, there are available maps Learn more at http://doloresrivercampground.com/.

(San Juan Forest Maps) that take the guesswork out of Enjoy 2019 and never hesitate to share a photo on our making this determination.”

Facebook page or tag us in Instagram.

The next day we drove over to Mesa Verde and enjoyed showing our young ones the history of the cliff dwellers. Pretty amazing and a mustsee if you haven’t been, or at least not seen in a long time. Some of the options for food in town were fantastic, too.

About The Author On the final morning we awoke in our covered wagon as we planned for a late morning High Country Angler contributor Brian La Rue on the Dolores before heading out. We tackenjoys giving fly fishers ideas of where to go led the park area downriver on the outskirts of for an adventure. Feel free to reach out to Brian at town. I raised a few rainbows and browns on a Brian@hcamagazine.com if you want your lodge or hopper/dropper combo as a flashback pheasant guide service featured in an upcoming promotional tail worked well. Barrett was constantly getting freaked out by snakes along the river. In two marketing plan. days, we counted something like 13 snakes, but gladly none with rattles.

“The best time to fish the river,” says Nemanic, “is any time you have the chance. The Dolores is YOUR NEXT GREAT ESCAPE! best after spring runoff subsides; about mid to late June and then before it freezes, in about late NoLocated On The vember into December. Because there aren't great hatches to take advantage of, I recommend using • RV & Tent Sites attractor flies throughout the sea• Full Service Cabins son, such as stimulators and Wulff • Camping Cabins • Vintage Trailer type flies. When the Dolores has a • Consetoga Wagons high-water year, there's runoff be• Yurts low the dam. On low-water years, • Gift Shop, Rec Hall, Laundry & the area below the dam is fishable Bath House year round, such as this year. In addition to the rainbows and browns you caught, the Dolores boasts a variety of trout including brookies and cutthroat. The average size is 8- to 16- inches. I’ve heard of other fisherman telling tales of 24- inchers, but I’ve never seen one that big.

Be sure to carry a standard Prince Nymph, too.”

The National Forest access up HC

Dolores River!

970-882-7761 www.doloresrivercampground.com

Science-Based Conservation for the Dolores

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High Country Angler • Winter 2019

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By Duncan Rose

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Winter 2019 • High Country Angler

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I

n January 2017, the Dolores River Anglers chapter published “Climate Change and the Upper Dolores Watershed: A Coldwaterfisheries Adaptive Management Framework.”

The study sought to address two fundamental questions: 1) How would our home waters likely change due to climate change? and 2) What, if anything, might be done about it? At the heart of the analysis was a systematic search for stronghold streams, those streams and reaches where populations were likely to survive to the end of the century.

The result of three years of extensive effort, the study downscaled credible national, regional and local climate change studies to the 46 trout streams in the Upper Dolores River watershed.

The findings were bleak: our populations will continue to experience increasingly relentless pressure from four forces: drought-induced dewatering, warming stream temperatures, wildfire, and flash flooding.

The resultant findings led to 1) a classification of the 46 streams into five “stream-drying” vulnerability classes from low vulnerability to high, and 2) a first attempt at assessing and mapping vulnerability to increasing stream temperatures.

The study was intended from the outset to provide decision context to habitat managers. It was not a plan, but rather a framework for planning. Key to the project process, professional staff from the San Juan National Forest (SJNF) and Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) participated in the analysis. Both are critical to all decisions about what happens in and near our trout streams.

Stream temperature monitoring As a follow-up to the study, we decided to focus first on substantially strengthening our stream temperature data. A key question needed to be resolved: what are the relationships among water temperature, air temperature, and elevation on the main stem of the Dolores? These relationships were key to estimating how high up in 18

High Country Angler • Winter 2019

elevation through mid and late century chronic and acute levels of stream warming would creep as climate change persisted.

In the summer of 2017, the chapter invested in eight stream temperature sensors, deploying four in the main stem of the Dolores and three in trees near three of the stream sites. The study captured excellent data over the summer of 2017.

Statistical models of the sought-for relationships were developed by a PhD environmental engineer who is a member of our chapter. The results captured the interest of the professional staff involved. SJNF was keen to expand the analysis for 2018 into the tributaries and assist with the field logistics.

Our summer 2018 stream temperature monitoring program asked two core questions: 1) is the distribution of stream temperatures in the tributaries virtually identical to that of the main stem? and 2) does stream gradient in mountain streams lead to such a mixing of stream temperature that local refuge for trout from increasing stream temperatures through such features as shading, aspect, and depth is non-existent?

Nine temperature sensors were placed in the main stem and 21 in 11 tributaries in the upper Dolores watershed through a combination of chapter members and SJNF staff. Data was downloaded for analysis in mid to late October.

Analysis should take place over the winter.

In addition to the in-place sensors, DRA gained access to a hand-held temperature sensor and a 6-foot flexible probe. This sensor is highly portable, rather than fixed-in-place. This portability allows the rapid recording of stream temperatures in pockets, pools, riffles, rapids, and runs across a variety of shade and non-shade and differing morphologies and orientation aspects.

We tested numerous stream temperatures at specific locations over several reaches for a number of streams to ascertain whether there really is local escape for trout from warming temperawww.HCAezine.com

tures through seeking locally available deeper watershed on a stream-by-stream basis. The Uppockets/pools, a change in aspect and/or shade. per Dolores Stream Protection Working Group Data so far indicate that, due apparently to gra- is comprised of Colorado Parks and Wildlife, dient-driven water-mixing found in our typical San Juan National Forest (Dolores District), and mountain streams, there is virtually no escaping Dolores Water Conservancy District staff asincreasing stream temperature by seeking locally sisted by Dolores River Anglers and a TU staffer. the bottom of pockets/pools, shade or a northern In addition to the stream work executed to date, aspect. It appears that, given our mountain mor- SJNF is updating and refining its wildfire risk asphology, migrating to higher elevation may well sessment. And Colorado Parks and Wildlife has be the only effective remedy a trout has to the worked with our chapter to conduct extensive detrimental effects of over-heating. multi-year DNA analysis in the Upper Dolores Upper Dolores Stream Protection Working to map cutthroat genitics.

Group Combining the insights gained from each of Exceptionally intense drought in the Upper these efforts, a simple, integrated approach will Dolores in 2018 (exceeding on many days the be developed by the Working Group to provide record lows of 2002 and 2012) underscored our guidance to management agencies and TU as to climate change findings: by the end of summer a what streams in the Upper Dolores watershed are large number of streams in the Upper Dolores ex- most threatened by which forces, and what properienced significant damage from dewatering, tections for each stream, from a range of federal, even to the point of extirpation of populations state and local options, are best suited to mitigatin substantial reaches at lower to mid elevations. ing those forces for that stream. The work will At least nine tributaries/reaches were observed begin in earnest in January. to lose their capacity to host trout through extremely low flow or no flow. Interestingly, all nine severely flow-challenged streams have small About The Author watersheds and lower headwater elevations, just as our climate study had projected – our vulnerDuncan Rose is the Conservation Coability analyses were pretty much spot-on.

Chair and Past President of TU’s Dolores Two local wildfires during the summer illusRiver Anglers chapter. trated again the significant damage to habitat that wildfire erosion can cause. The combined impacts of severe drought and wildfires in one summer has the Helping You Keep Your keen attention of local natural Eyes on the Big Ones resource managers and outdoor/environmental enthusiasts Full Service alike.

Fly Fishing With the summer of 2018 as Pro Shop & Guide Service backdrop, a working group was formed in late October to sysSchedule a Trip Today! tematically pursue determin970-944-2526 ing feasible stream protection Lake City, Colorado strategies for the Upper Dolores HC

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Trout Smart Series: An Insider's Look at Catching Brook Trout On The Fly

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t was a beautiful day on the lake. The kids were splashing happily in the shallows while dad lazily cast a dry fly from the dock with a cold beer close at hand. Little did they know that there was a menace lurking just beneath the surface of the water. Beady little eyes set above rows of sharp teeth, menace coiling in their their bodies, a school of dark shapes began to ascend from the deep. Just then a shrill scream echoed out across the lake. In panic, the kids flooded for the shore, leaving each to fend for themselves. Perplexed, they looked for the source of the scream only to find their father visibly shaken and sitting squarely in the middle of the dock, hand trembling, with frayed tippet clenched in bloodless white fingers. “It all happened so fast,” he said in shocked incredulity. ”I didn’t even see them coming! My dry fly was on the surface of the water, and then it was gone... it was just gone! (sobbing)” The Brook Trout had struck again!

In part II of our Trout Smart series we will be breaking down a familiar adversary to many of us: Salvelinus fontinalis, aka the Brook trout.

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High Country Angler • Winter 2019

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Identifying Characteristics Similar in color and pattern to the weeds, roots, and algae-covered rocks from which the brook trout like to hide and ambush their prey, the back, dorsal fin, adipose fin, and caudal fin (tail) are covered in a crosshatch of worm-like markings. The flanks of the brook trout are heavily covered with yellow dots and intermittent crimson to pink dots surrounded by blue halos. The leading edge of the dorsal and anal fins will each have strips of white and black in succession, while the rear portion of those fins will vary in color from a peach to a blaze orange.

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Range & Habitat A member of the salmon family, brook trout are native to the Eastern United States and Canada, where they are still commonly found in cool, clean lakes and rivers at high elevation. In the mid 1800’s, brook trout began to be actively stocked beyond the borders of their native range both by public and private parties, and can today be found in all but a few states. Though well-intentioned, the introduction of these prolific spawning and aggressive feeding fish has pushed some native trout and fishes to the brink of extinction, causing many to look upon the brook trout as a nuisance or invader.

For all intents and purposes, Brook trout are coldwater piranhas. Ambush predators, and aggressive feeders lunging at their food, brook trout will often travel in schools and push other trout species around in order to claim the best habitat in the river. This preference for cover will oftentimes see brook trout sharing the deep brush snags and undercut banks with brown trout, while their numbers and West Side Story like gang behavior regularly puts them into turf wars in the fast water with rainbow and cutthroat trout. The Brook trout’s colonial expansion has been halted primarily by their need for cool, clean water, with the optimal range being between 44° - 58° F.

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High Country Angler • Winter 2019

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Feeding Behavior & Foods Like some campy, direct-to-DVD horror flick, brook trout swarm and attack both their food and the fly with mindless abandon. Be it a false sense of confidence created by numbers or the heightened competition for food, the sense of urgency is only multiplied by the number of fish sharing the water. Thinking primarily of their next meal, Brook trout are not particularly picky eaters requiring an exact match of the hatch. Dry flies with exaggerated wings and colors such as the Humpy, Purple Haze, and Missing Link Caddis are more than a brookie can bear to let drift by, while attractor nymphs including the prince nymph, rainbow warrior, and copper john have proved to be the undoing of countless thousands of fish. The diet of brook trout for the first few years of their lives is made up of any and every type of aquatic and terrestrial invertebrate that they come across. Larger brook trout will add crayfish, minnows, and even mice to the menu as soon as they can fit them in their mouths.

Vulnerabilities Knock on their door - Ready to jump out of cover and mug any fly that gets close, fly placement can be key when targeting brook trout. Drop your flies close to cover including undercut banks, root wads in the river, and deep plunge pools. When you get your fly in the right place you will know it by the toothy mouths slashing at surface of the water!

Too Hot to Handle - Brook trout are ravenous, reactionary predators that will snap at anything that grabs their attention. Flashy beadheads, wire wraps, and bright colors are like putting blood in piranhainfested waters! Fish both dry and wet attractor patterns for four season action on brook trout, and they won’t About The Author know what hit them until they're in Peter Stitcher is an Aquatic Biologist your net!

and owner of Ascent Fly Fishing.

Originator of the Biologist Crafted Fly Selection, Peter and his team build their clients’ fly selections specific to the bugs in the waters they fish, when they fish them. You can contact Peter or restock your fly box at: www.ascentflyfishing. com.

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FROM THE COLORADO TU DIRECTOR • CAM CHANDLER

A Time for Reflection; A Time For Giving As we approach the end of another year, it is TU will turn 50! You’ll be hearing much more a good time to reflect on the past 12 months and from us about the 50th in the days ahead, as to think about what the year ahead may hold. we celebrate past accomplishments and chart a For those of us with Colorado Trout Unlimited, course for continued success over our next 50 2018 was a challenging but rewarding year. years.

We saw rivers across Colorado struggle in the Year-end is also a time where many of us face of serious drought, with elevated water embrace the spirit of giving, with our friends, temperatures and low flows stressing fish families, and the causes in which we believe. I populations. We also witnessed fisheries like trust you agree that Colorado Tout Unlimited the Animas and Hermosa Creek suffer from the is making an important difference through effects of catastrophic wildfire. its mission to conserve and protect our cold Nevertheless, 2018 also was a year marked by water resources. To continue to be effective significant victories. Colorado Trout Unlimited and to expand our influence, we need your was instrumental in helping our partners at financial support. I hope you will join me in Colorado Parks and Wildlife to secure passage this season of giving by making a meaningful of their “Future Generations Act” to provide year-end charitable donation to Colorado long-term, stable funding for fish and wildlife Trout Unlimited. If you are interested, this year conservation.

Colorado Trout Unlimited Colorado Trout Unlimited is also offering some participated in multiple native trout recovery attractive donor appreciation gifts at different projects to help provide a stronger foothold for donation levels including some special 50th our state’s native cutthroat trout, with our friends anniversary items. Please visit www.coloradotu. at the US Fish and Wildlife Service recognizing org/donate to learn more. us with their volunteer appreciation award.

Your support and involvement have helped Colorado Trout Unlimited also established new us accomplish so much this past year and over and stronger collaborations with partners from our 50 year history – and with your help, I know the business, water management, government, that our best is yet to come! Thank you and I education, and conservation communities wish all of you the very best this holiday season – partnerships that will help us continue to and for the New Year! advance habitat conservation in Colorado for years to come.

Looking ahead to 2019, Colorado TU intends to build About The Author on our past success. We also Cam Chandler is the President of Colorado Trout Unlimited plan to take time to celebrate and a past president of the Cutthroat Chapter.

Colorado TU’s 50th anniversary.

That’s right, in 2019, Colorado HC

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High Country Angler • Winter 2019

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A REMINDER FROM BEECHTOWN HIGH

Colorado Trout Unlimited Presents...

2019 Annual Rendezvous Glenwood Springs, CO April 26-28, 2019 Join fellow TU members, industry professionals, and conservation experts for a great weekend of trainings, networking, and a whole lot of fun!

Learn More at: coloradotu.org/rendezvous

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Winter 2019 • High Country Angler

25

COLORADO TU OP ED

•

BY DAVID DRAGOO

Time for Congress to Support our Great Outdoors

W

ith elections behind us, Congress is reconvening for its so-called “lame duck” session. One of its first orders of business should be to permanently reauthorize our nation’s most successful outdoor recreation program, the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF).

Over its more than 50 years, the LWCF invested over $16 billion in protecting valuable habitats, expanding public access to America’s public lands, and supporting local projects for outdoor recreation. And it has done so without busting the federal budget – relying on revenue generated by the success of America’s energy sector, not taxpayer dollars.

Close to home, LWCF has helped western Colorado with investments from protecting the Ophir Valley above Telluride, to securing key inholdings at the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, to supporting the community Riverwalk in Pagosa Springs. More than $268 million has flowed into Colorado from LWCF, securing key public lands, opening up improved hunting and angling access, and supporting community trail and park development.

Yet despite bipartisan support and a long track record of success, Congressional gridlock allowed the LWCF to expire on September 30, 2018. The loss of LWCF could seriously hamper future efforts 26

High Country Angler • Winter 2019

to conserve valuable habitats and expand public access to America’s public lands. Fortunately, the lame duck session gives Congress a second chance to reinstate the program with full, dedicated annual funding.

Here in Colorado, we know that protecting our outdoor resources isn’t just about the environment and our quality of life – it is also an investment in our state’s economy and our communities. Outdoor recreation in Colorado contributes $62.5 billion to our state economy, and supports 511,000 jobs. For businesses like Mayfly, the great outdoors is our corporate infrastructure – and the LWCF helps provide the outdoor resources for our customers that allow us to invest in our companies, our workforce, and our communities.

Senators Bennet and Gardner and Congressman Tipton have all supported permanent reauthorization of LWCF, for which Coloradans can be grateful. Now it is time for them, and the rest of Congress, to finish the job and ensure that this vital program continues to support Colorado’s – and America’s – great outdoors and the multi-billion outdoor recreation economy that it supports. The time is now to #SaveLWCF. HC

Weigh in with your elected officials by visiting coloradotu.org/savelwcf

About The Author David Dragoo is President of Mayfly Outdoors, a Certified B Corp that operates Montrose-based Abel Reels and Ross Reels with the goal of conserving wildlife and fish habitats.

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Colorado Trout Unlimited

River Stewardship Gala March 7, 2019 5pm Mile High Station | Denver, CO Save the Date: Join Colorado TU at the 2019 Gala and help us celebrate our 50th anniversary! With nearly 400 river and angling enthusiasts expected to attend, this is an event not to be missed and will include dinner, drinks, silent & live auction, and award presentation.

2019 River Stewardship Award Honoree will be William Reilly, the EPA Administrator who vetoed Two Forks Dam and helped spawn new, more collaborative approaches to water planning and management.

Get y

our t

We'v e past

Tickets & Info:

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coloradotu.org/gala Cannot make the event? Consider contributing an item for our auction or supporting conservation by participating www.HCAezine.com

Winter 2019 • High Country Angler

in our online silent auction. Link above.

27

A GUIDE’S LIFE

•

BY HAYDEN MELLSOP

A Perfect Day

T

raveling thirty miles down a gravel road to get to a fishing spot generally rewards one with a degree of solitude. So it proved as we crested the divide for the final time, and dropped down into the valley to find the rustic campground free of habitation—human, at least. From up high the serpentine course of the stream could be traced by the stands of leafless willows that grew in clusters along its banks. The valley narrowed upstream to the west, before elbowing south, where the peaks of distant mountains—dusted with the season’s first snow—mingled with sullen storm clouds.

Ostensibly we’d come to fish the stream, but for me the next few days would be as much about drinking hot tea in the silence of early morning while the sun slowly worked its way down the mountainsides

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High Country Angler • Winter 2019

to an icy camp. It would be as much about the aroma of bacon quietly sizzling on the griddle, of a lunchtime beer sipped with feet dangling in the stream, of margaritas and the Milky Way, and of being in a place where a cell phone is as relevant to an angler as a bicycle to a brook trout. It would be about burrowing deep into a warm bag on a frigid night, of the howl of a distant coyote, and the purl of the stream overlaying it all.

We set up camp on a small ledge that offered a pathway down through the rocks to the meadow and stream below. From this vantage point, we could observe a portion of the stream—a slow, elongated pool that quickened into a riffle and turned down-valley at the foot of the ledge. After dunking my dried-out wading boots in the water to soften the leather, I re-

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turned up the path to the ledge and sat, taking plea- by the minute. sure in the ritual of donning waders, cinching boots, I rummaged through the food cooler, stuffing some choosing a rod, freshening tippet, and sifting through cheese and crackers and a couple of energy bars into my fly box—even though, in my mind, I’d decided one of the pockets of my hip pack. I guessed the time three days ago which fly I would start out with. as close to noon, and didn’t expect we’d return to camp The sight of a fish rising in the pool below, inter- until after the sun had dipped below the horizon. By mittently but with the persistence of an active feeder, then, I knew, my lower back would be aching gently heightened the anticipation. from walking several miles over uneven ground, my “Did you see that?� I asked. “That’s got your name legs would be weary, and my best friends would be written all over it.�

Advil, my camp chair, and margarita cup.

My friend nodded. “Ah, mate, you’re too kind.� “Well, mate, shall we?� “Not really. I just want to have a good laugh when He stood, slipped on his fly vest, and grabbed his you set the hook too quickly and miss it.� rod.

I pulled my attention from the pool to what lay up“Yes,â€? I agreed, “it’s time.â€? stream. For at least a mile, it zigzagged its course before the valley dog-legged out of sight toward the mountains to the south, the pull of Hayden Mellsop what lay beyond growing stronger Fly ďŹ shing guide. Real Estate guide.

HC

About The Author Hayden Mellsop is an expat New Zealander living in the mountain town of Salida, Colorado, on the banks of the Arkansas River.

As well as being a semiretired fly fishing guide, he juggles helping his wife raise two teenage daughters, along with a career in real estate.

www.HCAezine.com

Recreation, residential, retirement, investment.

5IF EJĂľFSFODF CFUXFFO MPPLJOH GPS ZPVS TQFDJBM QMBDF BOE mOEJOH JU 1JOPO 3FBM &TUBUF (SPVQ 4BMJEB 0ĂśDF ] $FMM XXX )PNF 8BUFST DPN INFMMTPQ!QJOPOSFBMFTUBUF DPN

Winter 2019 • High Country Angler

29

Recovery Recap: Greenback Cutthroats

by Dan Omasta

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High Country Angler • Winter 2019

T

he 2018 recovery season for the Greenback Cutthroat was certainly one for the books, thanks to the tremendous work of agency partners, foundations, donors, and volunteers. We have seen significant advances towards the longterm protection of this threatened species by reclaiming habitat, spawning wild populations, and stocking new areas! Here are just a few of the highlights from the year: www.HCAezine.com

• Over 200 volunteers from 15 The significant level of engage- media outlets. Here at Colorado different TU chapters sup- ment from agency partners and TU, we couldn’t agree more. Thank ported various recovery proj- support from TU volunteers are the you to all of the chapters, volunects throughout the season; factors that drive successful years teers, funders, business partners, like this one. In fact, Trout Unlim- and community members that • Over 40,000 Greenback cut- ited volunteers won an award from showed up, donated, held meetthroats stocked into Herman the US Fish and Wildlife Service ings, planted data loggers, notched Gulch, Dry Gulch, and Zim- for all of their work in 2018. “We beaver dams, engaged friends and merman Lake; couldn’t do this without the help of family, and hiked fish up to 11,000 • TU Greenback recovery vol- volunteers,” claimed Paul Winkle feet.

Thank you for a great year! unteers recognized by the US in a recent interview with Denver Fish and Wildlife Service with the Regional Volunteer SerAbout The Author vice Award; HC

• Greenback habitat restoration continued to advance with the completion of the Phase 2 barrier at Rock Creek, preparation of Black Canyon Creek for potential treatment in 2019, beginning of the Upper Poudre Headwaters Project with brook trout movement surveys, and award of $120,000 from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and CPW to complete design and construction of a fish barrier in the George Creek drainage.

Dan Omasta is a Grassroots Coordinator for Colorado TU. He joined TU in Feb. of 2017, where he works to coordinate statewide campaigns related to public lands and native trout restoration. You can reach him via the Colorado TU website at www.coloradotu.org.

• Volunteers helped to distribute and manage over 40 stream temperature loggers across the Greenback's historic range to help recovery partners identify potential new sites for reintroduction.

• And the data shows that it is working! CPW reports a 34% - 51% retention rate of fish stocked in 2017, meaning that these fish are sticking around.

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Winter 2019 • High Country Angler

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Angling Adventures in New Zealand The Trip of a Lifetime

by Colorado TU Staff

I

n the Southern Hemisphere on the northern island of New Zealand lies Lake Taupo and its over 30 tributary rivers that flow into this 240 square mile body of water, along with its lush and wild backcountry wilderness.

Clients have been heard saying, “as close to a perfect trip as we could have imagined,” “best guides on the planet,” “we never saw another angler the entire week,” and “amazing beauty, amazing fish, both in numbers caught and size…on dry flies no less!”

Kevin Wigfield, at Distant Waters, has been helping anglers fulfill their fly fishing and travel dreams to this incredible destination for over 20 years.

The temperatures here rarely dip below the fifties this time of year, and by lunch it will sit per32

High Country Angler • Winter 2019

fect in the mid/upper-seventies.

But we are not fishing the Lake Taupo tributaries today. Instead, we hear the sound of a helicopter…the thud of its blades whirl overhead. Over the radio our pilot explains his flight route will pass by a waterfall and over a forest made up of thousands of jasmine green trees. The river systems that make up this aweinspiring backcountry are home to some of the wildest Brown and Rainbow trout known to mankind.

The helicopter descends into a forest below, and there is no trace of civilization – no roads and nothing artificial to break the landscape. The helicopter touches down on a remote stream bed that looks so untouched it is almost prehistoric.

The scene cuts to the heart of any true sportsperson, and crewww.HCAezine.com

ates an immediate realization that we are truly removed from the outside world. From here on out it is the angler, their guide, and the river. Gear unloaded, a quick inventory, the blades are still thudding and deafening while kicking up a whirlwind of dust and stones.

Then it ascends, and escapes above the trees.

An angler knows when they have found a good river, and this is it. My Distant Waters guide instructs and helps set up a size #8 or #10 dry fly on my line in preparation to sight, stalk, and catch an average trout ranging from 4lb to 6lb—all while looking for that elusive double-digit size “Big Boy” that calls these rivers home as well.

Having fish of this size consistently rise to a dry fly is on every angler’s bucket list…landing this www.HCAezine.com

THE MOUNTAINS ARE CALLING

PROUDLY MADE IN MONTROSE, COLORADO U.S.A ROSSREELS.COM

Winter 2019 • High Country Angler

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bigger-than-life fish justifies why a person travels halfway around the world. A destination of a lifetime, it feels larger, wilder, and yet so familiar.

Like anywhere else, going with a trusted guide in these rough backcountry waters is essential. In other words, guides and visitors don't just “luck into” the big fish. An experienced outfitter like Distant Waters ensures this trip is well worth the effort. Many clients will stay an extra week or even a month after the fishing ends to enjoy an idyllic land that offers so much in addition to its world-class angling.

Kirk Klancke, President, Colorado River Headwaters Chapter of Trout Unlimited, purchased a Distant Waters trip at the Colorado Trout Unlimited Gala for himself and his wife. “We weren't sure how it would go, but Kevin Wigfield, the owner of Distant Waters, took care of every detail of the trip, including working with our flight schedule to allow us additional time in New Zealand. We still talk about the size of the fish and the attitude they showed when hooked. The trip included a helicopter trip into remote backcountry, where Darlene caught her largest trout. We are grateful to Kevin for his generous and ongoing support of Trout Unlimited, and for organizing a fishing trip that created such special life time memories.”

Another example is Keith Lovin's latest trip; when he explained to his wife about wanting to book a fishing trip, she was quite disappointed, and wanted to know how she could get in on the action. Distant Waters was able to arrange for her to arrive after the fishing portion, and drafted an itinerary that included touring both 34

islands for three weeks. Distant Waters was able to line up B&B reservations, travel arrangements, and even activities like world class wineries, golfing, bike excursions, and whale watching. The end result was a custom-tailored tour that was the trip of a lifetime.

What's more is that the cost can be very much in your favor. The kind of adventures that New Zealand offers are something unique to be experienced, and the amenities are in line with something one would expect in an Alpine village… yet the remoteness and exclusivity both work in favor of the adventurous traveler hoping to find the best bang for their buck.

Keith agrees, “Kevin at Distant Waters puts together a trip that is an incredible value for all you get— cost, extended travel planning, the kiwi people and hospitality, culture,

High Country Angler • Winter 2019

fish (size and numbers), dry flies (cicada hatches…out of your mind!), phenomenal guides, and overall experience—it was world class in every respect.”

New Zealand’s trout fishing is rightly renowned, but to fully appreciate it, you need to experience it first-hand. The large trout in pristine waters, the scenic beauty surrounding you, the chance to enjoy the country and its culture—that’s what an angling adventure to New Zealand is about. You can explore the possibilities for your own adventure with Distant Waters, starting with their website: http://www.distantwatersnz.com/. And, as a special offer to Colorado TU supporters, 15% of any trip booked as a result of this article will be donated back to Colorado TU to support trout and river conservation in Colorado!

HC

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Winter 2019 • High Country Angler

35

From Egg to Fry: An Educator's Experience with Trout in the Classroom

by Bianca McGrath-Martinez

I asked Mike Sanchez, a science educator, if he could estimate how many of his high school students had not been exposed to fishing before his Trout in the Classroom program began in 2014. Mike’s guess was 70-80%. I was surprised by how high that figure was, especially in a state like Colorado, where outdoor recreation is one of the largest industries, and fishing is one of the most popular outdoor activities.

About five years ago, Mike started his Trout in the Classroom program at Academy High School in Thornton. When Mike’s Director, Sherry Kangas, approached him with the program, he saw it as a natural fit to his classroom. Prior to becoming a teacher, Mike was a seasonal fisheries technician for the Colorado Division of Wildlife, now known as Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Mike’s passion for

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High Country Angler • Winter 2019

science and his time working with Colorado Parks and Wildlife gave him the experience that would help him create a very successful Trout in the Classroom program.

Trout in the Classroom allows students around the country to raise trout from eggs to fry, monitor tank water quality, engage in stream habitat study, learn to appreciate water resources, grow to understand ecosystems, and foster a conservation ethic that will lead to a lifetime of environmental stewardship. The program takes place throughout the school year, typically ending with the students releasing the trout into a state-approved stream in their community. Trout in the Classroom is one of several different programs within Trout Unlimited’s Headwaters Youth Program.

Each Trout in the Classroom program looks different based

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Winter 2019 • High Country Angler

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on the school district, the teacher, and their subject area. Trout Unlimited provides a variety of resources so that a teacher can implement activities suited to their classroom needs. Mike’s Trout in the Classroom program varies by year. Depending on which classes Mike teaches during the year, his curriculum could involve fly tying and fly casting lessons taught by Colorado Trout Unlimited volunteers and staff, fishing with the students at Lake Lehow, dissection of fish donated from a hatchery, and macroinvertebrate identification and study. During years when Mike is teaching art instead of science, his students complete art projects about trout. One of these projects has the students create clay sculptures of trout, which they then customize to fit their personal style. Covering the walls of his classroom are numerous drawings of colorful fish that were created by his students.

When Mike first began Trout in the Classroom, he did not realize the connection that he would help create between his students and the trout. The ability to help foster that connection to a stream and its fish has been a big part of why Mike continues to do Trout in the Classroom. It is clear the students are engaged - when he takes them fly fishing, they often express that they could see themselves doing this

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High Country Angler • Winter 2019

for the rest of their lives. Every day, students come in to look at the tank to check the progress of the trout. Mike recently added a second tank to his program and is hoping to have a more productive fish release, which is one of the more exciting parts of his Trout in the Classroom curriculum.

Mike Sanchez did not plan on becoming an educator, but after 20 years he finds it to be a “very fulfilling gig.” Mike has encountered high and low years while doing Trout in the Classroom. Despite his experience in the field, it was trial and error, and after five years, he feels like he is still learning. Even though teachers’ curricula are already packed with content, Mike says that Trout in the Classroom has never felt like a burden, because the extra work that he ends up with is work that he is passionate about doing and passing on to his students. For him, it is about being able to give his students that unique and, in most cases, initial experience with their home fishing waters.

Mike’s advice to other teachers is simple. “If you can get an outside group to provide the equipment for you to do this type of thing,” he said, “Go for it!”

Colorado Trout Unlimited is grateful to Suncor Energy for its generous support of youth education, which makes possible our work with Mike and Academy High School, as well as with other Colorado schools and students.

HC

About The Author Bianca McGrath-Martinez is an AmeriCorps VISTA (“Volunteer in Service to America”) serving with Colorado Trout Unlimited to grow its capacity to deliver youth programming through initiatives including Trout in the Classroom.

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COLORADO TROUT UNLIMITED

River conservation & fly-fishing camp LEARN

FIS H

CON SE RV E

June 9-15, 2019 Silent Spring Resort Gunnison, CO This great camp is designed for youth, ages 14-18. Join us in Gunnison for hands-on instruction, lots of fun, and opportunities to explore world-class waters. Beginning anglers are welcome!

Find more information at: www.coloradotu.org/youth-camp www.HCAezine.com

Winter 2019 • High Country Angler

39

FISHING FOR THINGS TO DO IN 2019?

COLORADO TU 2019 EVENT CALENDAR

January 4-6 Fly Fishing Show Denver Mart www.flyfishingshow.com/denver-co Colorado's largest fly fishing show, featuring exhibitor booths with outfitters and the latest fishing products, plus fly tying and casting demonstrations, classes and seminars by leading pros and authors, and be sure to stop by the Colorado Trout Unlimited booth to connect with us as well!

February 8-9 Frostbite Fish-Off Arkansas River tailwaters, Pueblo www.frostbitefishoff.com

March 7 River Stewardship Gala Mile High Station, Denver www.coloradotu.org/gala Celebrate rivers, socialize with other anglers and conservationists, and help raise funds to support CTU’s conservation efforts at the annual River Stewardship Gala in Denver. Dinner, beer and wine are included alongside an exciting array of auction items and trips. Our 2019 honoree is former EPA Administrator William K. Reilly, who was responsible for the veto of Two Forks Dam.

April 26-28 Colorado TU Rendezvous Hotel Colorado, Glenwood Springs coloradotu.org/rendezvous

Hosted by the Southern Colorado Greenbacks Chapter of TU, this event allows two-angler teams to square off against each other for some fabulous prizes, bragging rights, and a great cause – helping to protect local watersheds.

Rendezvous is the place to be if you want to connect with other TUers and learn more about how to make a difference for trout in Colorado. Along with CTU’s annual membership meeting, the Rendezvous features workshops on topics from stream habitat conservation and improvement to strategies for effective online communication. A great chance to learn and connect with new February 9 and old friends!

West Denver 43rd Annual Fly Tying Clinic Jefferson County Fairgrounds www.westdenvertu.org The clinic features more than 40 of the Rocky Mountain region’s best fly tyers, plus door prizes, raffles, casting lessons, and more. Proceeds benefit local water quality, stream restoration, youth education, and community outreach programs.

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High Country Angler • Winter 2019

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June 9 -15 CTU Youth River Conservation & Fly Fishing Camp Almont coloradotu.org/youth-conservation-and-flyfishing-camp This week-long residential camp is designed to educate 14 to 18 year old students on watershed science and the importance of coldwater conservation, and provide hands-on fly fishing instruction on some of Colorado’s finest waters. Approximately 20 students are selected each year, based on their qualifications and a written essay on why they would like to attend the camp.

July 26-28 8 River Rodeo Glenwood Springs and Almont www.8riverrodeo.com The most fun you can have with your waders on! You and a teammate each catch 8 fish from 8 different rivers in 2 days across the Roaring Fork and Gunnison valleys. All proceeds benefit CTU and Project Healing Waters. This event will make you a better angler and give you the opportunity to fish Colorado’s best and most beautiful rivers.

July 29-August 3 Rocky Mountain Flycasters Conservation and Fly Fishing Youth Camp Ft. Collins www.rockymtnflycasters.org This day camp program is designed for 15 campers, ages 14-17, from the northern Front Range region – and space fills quickly! The camp is a fast-paced six days of instruction, participation, and fun. Topics include: how to fly fish, responsibility for the watersheds, riparian habitat, river ecology, and trout.

September 6-8 Golf Trout Tournament Steamboat Springs www.golftrout.com Four person teams compete in a unique two-day competition, with a full day of guided fishing on exclusive private waters followed by a day of golfing on a championship course. Proceeds benefit coldwater conservation efforts in the Yampa Valley.

September 6-7 Gunnison Superfly Almont/Gunnison www.gunnisonanglingsociety.org/superfly Two-person teams compete to see who can catch the most inches of trout in one day using the two flies of their choice.

Anglers fish a variety of waters in the Gunnison Valley, including premier private water on the East, Taylor, and Gunnison Rivers. Proceeds benefit youth education and river conservation in the Gunnison Valley.

September 7 Carp Slam Denver carpslam.org Pro/Am teams come together to share over 20 miles of the Denver South Platte and target the river’s resident finned behemoth, the carp. Some contend this is the hardest fresh water game fish to target on the fly. Funds raised by the tournament are used to improve habitat and flow in the Denver South Platte – ironically making it less attractive to Carp.

September 28-29 Upper Colorado Fall Classic Eagle eaglevalley.tu.org

Two-person teams compete over a guided float down the Colorado River between Pumphouse and Catamount recreation areas, sharing dinner and drinks the night prior to the competition and appetizers and drinks at the award ceremony following the float. For information: nick.noesen@gmail.com www.HCAezine.com

Winter 2019 • High Country Angler

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FIT TO BE TIED

•

BY JOEL EVANS

Until the Next Cast

S

ilhouetted against the bluest of blue summer Colorado sky, Richmond Ridge towers above the city of Aspen.

The barren ski runs course downward from Aspen Mountain, abruptly disappearing in the now green trees of the Roaring Fork Valley.

Along the valley floor, the jubilant waters of the Roaring Fork River dance in the sunlight, ever onward in their snow-borne journey to the Colorado River at Glenwood Springs. In between

the 13,000 foot headwaters of Independence Pass until merging with the Colorado, rocks and riffles break the rush, providing pools and feeding lanes for rainbow trout.

It’s 1965. A World War 2 veteran has settled into the valley for the summer, making an almost daily quest to the river banks with fly rod in hand.

Opening a scarred leather fly wallet, the wool inside is tainted from years of use. The choice is relatively simple, divided among

wet and dry flies, oftentimes revealing both styles of the same pattern.

Usually the first chosen—and sometimes the only one chosen—is a Rio Grande King. The dry version has upright duck quill wings and multiple winds of stiffer rooster hackle, while the wet version folds the same quill wings backwards with a sparse wrap of softer hen hackle.

In the vicinity of Woody Creek, just a few miles downstream of Aspen’s bustle, tall

Over 50 years old, this specific Rio Grande King was used by my father, caught fish, and saved. It worked then; it works now.

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High Country Angler • Winter 2019

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RIO GRANDE KING DRY OR WET

cottonwoods cast an early afternoon shadow across the riffle that even just yesterday revealed a pod of rising fish. Knowing the river and the current, the cast is deliberate but delicate.

Stripping line from the automatic fly reel, the fiberglass rod is accurate, the drift is true, as the white wings of the dry Rio Grande King stand out against the broken water.

Unable to resist, the rainbow rises. Mindfully, the fisherman hesitates, but only long enough for the rainbow to turn. A distant tug connected to an arched rod begins the contest. The end result is always in doubt. Never in doubt, another cast lays out the Rio Grande King, hoping again for a rise.

HOOK: #12 2X LONG DRY OR MULTIPLE SIZES THREAD: 6/0 - BLACK BODY: CHENNILE – BLACK, FINE OR MEDIUM WING: DUCK QUILL OR CALFTAIL - WHITE HACKLE: NECK – MEDIUM BROWN TAIL: GOLDEN PHEASANT

It’s the summer of 2018. The mentored son of the veteran fisherman watches the same riffle. Much is different. The rod, the reel, the fly line, the leader, the tippet. The waders, the wading shoes, the sunglasses, and the regulations. Presumably all resulting in catching more fish.

Or does it?

Much is the same. The moun-

tains, the valley, the clear water.

The shadows, the drift, the take.

Even the fly. Can a decades-old pattern made of all- natural materials possibly catch fish? Aren’t the fish smarter today?

As before, the end result is always in doubt. Never in doubt, another cast lays out the Rio Grande King, hoping again for a rise.

HC

Save 10% - Use Promo Code HCA1703 Offer Expires 03/31/2019

About The Author

Joel Evans is a fly fishing writer, photographer, and long-time member of Trout Unlimited from Montrose, CO. You can contact him via the HCA editor at frank@hcamagazine.com.

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Winter 2019 • High Country Angler

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Ring the Victory Bells!

Agreement Protects Iconic Creeks in Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness

Thanks to a settlement between the City of Aspen and conservation interests, beavers will remain the only dam-builders on Maroon and Castle Creeks.

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by Colorado TU Staff High Country Angler • Winter 2019

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2018

was a good year for those who love the Maroon Creek and Castle Creek valleys, as Colorado Trout Unlimited and its partners with American Rivers, Wilderness Workshop, and Western Resource Advocates, all signed agreements with the city of Aspen for it to permanently abandon its plans to build dams on Maroon and Castle creeks.

Aspen had been advancing a proposal to develop a 170-foot dam on Castle Creek and a 155foot dam on Maroon Creek in the shadow of the Maroon Bells. If built, the dams proposed on Maroon and Castle creeks would have flooded important wildlife and recreation areas in addition to portions of the Maroon BellsSnowmass Wilderness Area, forever changing two of the most beautiful, visited, and photographed valleys in Colorado.

Local fisheries were at risk, as well, for anglers adventuring up from the Roaring Fork to fish the area for wild brook and cutthroat trout.

In December 2016, Colorado TU, as well as its conservation partners and other concerned stakeholders, filed statements of opposition with the Colorado Water Court regarding Aspen’s application to continue conditional water rights to pursue construction of the dams. Ulwww.HCAezine.com

timately, the parties reached Valley,” said Matt Rice, Coloagreement with Aspen on a rado River Basin Director for path forward that eliminates the American Rivers. “We applaud threat of dams on both creeks. the city of Aspen for working “Sacrificing the places that with the community to find make Colorado great is the more sustainable and cost-efwrong answer for meeting fu- fective water supply solutions. ture water needs,” said David Thanks to the hard work and Nickum, Executive Director persistence of so many people of Colorado Trout Unlimited. who love this special place, “We appreciate the City of As- these creeks will forever flow pen making this commitment free.” to meet its water supply needs CTU benefited from generwhile protecting these much- ous pro bono representation loved valleys and creeks, and from the law firm of Patrick, the wild trout that call them Miller and Noto. We are deeply home.” grateful for their help in making Under the agreements, As- this settlement possible. pen committed to pursuing FULL more river-friendly water storCOLOR age strategies. The city will seek to move a portion of its water rights to a suite of more environmentally friendly water storage locations within and downstream of the city limits, including a site near the gravel quarry at Woody Creek. Importantly, the City agreed to abandon plans to build reserDVD voirs with dams on Castle and Included!

Maroon creeks regardless of whether it is successful in moving the water rights to alterna$27.95 ISBN 978-1-892469-29-8 tive locations. CTU commends Step-by-step fly pattern tutorials develop the City for its efforts in findyour tying skills one pattern at a time. ing solutions to protect the two After completing all seven patterns you will have the skills to tie most of the flies creeks while maintaining an you will ever need. Available from your important source of water for favorite retailer or give us a call. the community.

1-888-511-1530 “This is a significant victory www.nononsenseguides.com for rivers in the Roaring Fork HC

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Stand For Public Land Story and Photographs by Catherine Belme

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W

hen I moved into my @ vanforpublicland and drove off on the open road last fall, it was to fuel my soul and better connect with and get to know the land I call home. It’s so much more than that, though. I have the deepest, most passionate feelings for this land, for the rivers and plants and animals that inhabit it with us. We are creatures of the wild, somewhere along the lines domesticating ourselves a little too much, in my opinion. I strongly believe all of us have a primal connection to the outdoors, the wild.

Some of us just may never have had the chance to explore that yet, and others may have forgotten or suppressed it while caught up in modern life. I want to change that.

I strongly, strongly believe that

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interacting with nature heals the body and soul, grounds us, helps us understand life and get a grip on what matters and why, gives us fuel and a deep sense of fulfillment. I want to share the feelings I get when in the outdoors with as many as possible. For these feelings – they’re the first step in developing a lasting relationship. The way I see it, there’s something in the outdoors for everyone, and once found, it leads to an appreciation for and love of the environment.

Once that foundation is laid, people begin feeling passionate about the wild spaces in their lives, and with that comes a reason to protect these places.

Our public lands are threatened every day, not just by humans mistreating them, but also by our

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government and special interest groups. Now, more than ever, there is no guarantee these last wild places will remain protected for future generations to enjoy. I set out on the road to see as much of our nation’s public lands as possible, with the intent of sharing their largely unrealized beauty and power with others, and to meet with and share the stories of as many folks in the outdoors as I can. My hope is that through sharing these stories, others will find someone they can relate to, and thus be inspired to engage in the outdoor world. Over time, they’ll get the same wonderful feelings as the rest of the outdoorsy community, feel empowered, and find a reason to protect these spaces. Then, in my wildest fantasy, everyone will fight for conservation and know how to responsibly interact with nature.

From exposure to experience to connection to conservation, bam!

We all will be out there taking a stand for public land.

Along my journey, I have met some of the most interesting and kind people, and witnessed firsthand so much lost culture and raw natural beauty. My first stop was to link up with a couple who live on the road with their pup and have fallen in love with Bears Ears National Monument and the surrounding areas. I’ve driven through Utah on trips between Colorado and southern California several times before, but never even realized how much public land is there, and how amazing the topography and rich history of these places is! We drove around the land within the old Bears Ears border, stopping to look at Native American artifacts, kivas, and petroglyphs. The area is sacred to several tribes, and inwww.HCAezine.com

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credibly rich in cultural history. (In case you aren’t aware – last December President Trump announced a reduction in size of Bears Ears National Monument by a staggering 85%; a real blow to The Antiquities Act, outdoor enthusiasts, and especially to Native peoples.) I have really fallen for southern and eastern Utah from my travels, though! The ground is red, and at first glance may seem barren, but when looking deeper you’ll find that’s not the case at all. Buttes, canyons, rivers, and dry creek beds make for a dras50

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tic landscape. At dusk and dawn the air is alive with the sounds of coyotes on the hunt. Skies are full of stars and, out there, a full moon lights up the landscape better than any flashlight could. Some of my favorite spots are the Bears Ears area, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Monument Valley, and the area surrounding Moab.

Down in Texas I visited Big Bend National Park. Big Bend lies on the Rio Grande, at the border of Texas and Mexico. Across the border, the land is preserved by

two national parks as well, so add that to the fact that Big Bend is way off the beaten path, and it makes for an extremely well conserved area. Big Bend is where I learned about riparian areas – it’s the native plants and trees surrounding a waterway to help stabilize the banks, shade the water to keep it cool, and filter the soil, to put it briefly. The park may as well be three parks in one. The eastern part is right on the Rio Grande and has a lush riparian zone, as well as natural hot springs and a slot canyon. The cenwww.HCAezine.com

tral area is the Chisos Basin and Chisos Mountains, where you may encounter bears while hiking the mountainside, or javelina at your campsite. The mountains are beautiful and have trails leading along the ridge of the canyon, where you can see the Rio Grande below. I met a kind artist from Austin and camped with her in the Chisos, photographing her painting process and chatting all evening long.

To the western side is Santa Elena Canyon and a few desert hikes. I saw several kayakers here as well, and I believe you can even float the river from that area. Beyond that is a dirt road that it seems not too many drive down, which is a www.HCAezine.com

shame. The views are spectacular, and it is rich with historical sites as well. While exploring the west side I met an older gentleman named Terry who has lived out of his little sedan for a few years and camps at National Parks every night. He was delightful to talk to and I cannot wait to get ahold of him again for a feature in my project. I can only hope my retirement is half as adventure filled as his. I also befriended a family with a few daughters who were finishing up a spring break road trip. The parents were excited to meet a woman traveling solo and enjoying the outdoors, as they have intentionally raised their daughters in the outdoors

and taught them to be daring and self-sufficient. I thought that was so great, and I am excited for those girls to grow up and keep up their passion for nature.

It’s been about a year, and I can promise you I am nowhere nearly done with this project. Our country has so much to offer, so many beautiful places, so many hidden gems. It’s almost a catch-22: the less human traffic in these places, the more wild, serene, and awestriking they tend to be; however, that also means the less people who have an understanding of the land and why it needs to be protected.

I’ll be continuing my #standforpublicland project as a weekend Winter 2019 • High Country Angler

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warrior, visiting and learning all about new places to share with others, sharing stories of those I meet who are out enjoying the great outdoors, and helping to spread responsible practices for taking care of the earth.

HC

We want to thank Catherine Belme for sharing her story and perspective on public lands and invite you to celebrate these beautiful places.

Catherine is a CTU volunteer who helped document one of CTU’s Denver youth programs back in August.

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About The Author Learn more about Catherine and her photography on her social media: Instagram: @vanforpublicland Facebook: facebook.com/vanforpublicland Website: www.vanforpublicland.com Email: Catherine@cbelmephotography.com Full Blog: https://coloradotu.org/blog/2018/9/

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ost of us frequently hope to fish a remote location where we reap the reward of solitude, reboot our brains, and unwind. Besides hiking and climbing, for most of my life I have used a four-wheel drive pickup and/or ATV to get to remote fishing locations, trying my best not to disturb the environment.

Last year my orthopedist and I were sharing backcountry experiences.

He was enthused to tell me how he is now using an electric mountain bike to access certain remote locations. He convinced me give it a try, so I put out a few feelers. After contacting Tessa at Rad Power Bikes, they agreed to send me their 2018 RadRover Electric Fat Bike to ride and review. Now I too am convinced an electric mountain bike is a better way to access many remote fishing locations. So much so now that I have taken the RadRover on a fishing trip to access a high mountain stream, and another to access a backcountry lake. These are my experiences:

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High Country Angler • Winter 2019

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HCA

RADROVER BY RADPOWER

GEAR BAG

Weighing it at 66.5 pounds, the RadRover was an easy load. While I chose a heavy-duty hitch rack, the bike will fit in the back of many SUVs or pickups- no trailer or loading ramps required, and no gas or oil to leak. Its size also makes it a stealthy option for the trail. It will squeeze into some of the tightest areas, is very maneuverable, and with front and rear disc brakes, very stoppable. It is virtually unnoticeable- quiet and odorless. The 4-inch fat tires provide plenty of traction, a smooth ride, and leave almost no trace.

I found that the RadRover is legal in most places where mountain bikes are allowed, and in many places where other motorized options were not. Its range is 25-45+ miles. A choice of 5 pedal-assist options and an easy-to-use twist-throttle allows the rider to choose the best speed and power range.

With a top speed of over 20 mph, you can go quickly if the terrain allows. At 275 lbs., the payload is adequate for the fisher and gear, with a line of racks and baskets to fit fishing gear needs. A digital display shows power control, distance, battery remaining, and speed. The integrated headlight allows you to enter your favorite fishing area before daylight or exit after dark.

With a total cost of $1,699 (free shipping), the RadRover is an incredible value compared to other electric mountain bikes or gas-powered options, offering durability and affordability without sacrificing quality. It is simple to assemble and operate—even more so if you are familiar with regular mountain biking. Besides doing its job as a great eco-friendly backcountry travel option, it is FUN to ride!

Go to https://www.radpowerbikes.com/ to see Rad Power’s complete line, accessories options, and high marks they receive from other satisfied customers.

BY JACK TALLON

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PHOTOS BY LANDON MAYER

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Q&A With Governor-Elect Jared Polis

by HCA Staff

HCA: How has your background and experience ter quality are critical to our way of life, and our public prepared you to be the next Governor of Colorado? lands are not only an important part of our identity, but an important economic driver.

Colorado is a state undergoing rapid change due to population growth and related economic develop- We should leave no stone unturned in our effort to ment, as well as climate change. Throughout my work reduce the overall cost of health care. That’s why I’m in Congress for the past decade, I have shown that I a staunch advocate for universal health care and for have a deep commitment to confronting these chal- taking immediate action on achievable bipartisan relenges through thoughtful conservation, environ- forms that lowers the costs of care for Coloradans. mental protection, and bold clean energy measures.

Finally, we must close achievement gaps in our educaI’m proud to have started several successful business- tion system. Universal free full-day kindergarten and es and I will bring that vision and energy to state gov- preschool will be one my primary goals. I’m confident ernment. I launched American Information Systems, that we can accomplish this important goal through a dial-up service provider that brought the internet a wiser use of existing funds, social-impact bonding, into many homes for the first time. I also helped take public-private partnerships, and if necessary, going to the family greeting card business online, and found- the ballot to close any funding gaps. ed ProFlowers, a true startup where I did everything from loading the trucks the night before Valentine’s HCA: State natural resource management (by the Day to taking the business public.

Department of Natural Resources and otherwise) is often framed as a matter of balancing needs for Together we can build a Colorado economy where extraction and use of key resources with long-term people don’t just get by, but thrive. sustainability and conservation. Do you think that balance needs to be recalibrated, and if so how?

HCA: What are your top 2-3 goals that you hope to address over the next four years as Colorado Gov- As Colorado grows, we need to be mindful of the ernor? impacts that human development and associated resource extraction can have on the landscape, especialOne of my top goals will be to protect our public lands ly as they affect fish and wildlife habitat and populaand move towards renewable energy. Our air and wa- tions. I do not believe that we even fully understand

what human development, climate change, invasive species, and other threats will mean for the future of Colorado if not effectively managed. This is why I drafted my Keep Colorado Wild plan, which will be a central focus of my efforts as governor to invest more in land conservation and habitat improvement throughout the state. Under that plan, I have committed to making habitat mitigation mandatory in Colorado for corporations that damage habitat on state and private lands. We need to ensure that through economic development, we do not experience a net loss of habitat year after year.

HCA: In 2015, for the first time, Colorado adopted a statewide water plan describing general principles and key actions for meeting future water needs from agriculture to municipal growth to environmental and recreational uses. How do you plan to build on the first three years of implementation of this plan, or to modify the plan and change Colorado’s water priorities?

boards?

My six-year-old son just started fishing, and I love taking him to our state parks.

Appointees must understand what our parks and wild areas mean to all of us. I will appoint people who understand Colorado’s culture and natural resource management challenges and demonstrate commitment to conservation of biodiversity, habitat, and fresh water, as well as the imagination to take bold steps to solve Colorado’s conservation challenges. They will possess necessary political skills to lead diverse constituencies in the service of meeting these challenges.

Before introducing the Continental Divide Wilderness and Camp Hale Preservation Act alongside Senator Michael Bennet, I worked with a broad stakeholder group of conservationists, business groups, Democrats, Republicans, and local elected officials to build a coalition ready to fight for the proposed 90,000 acre expansion of wilderness in White River National It’s so important that we make implementing and fully Forest. That collaboration is how I’ll also approach my funding Colorado’s Water Plan a top priority in the nominations Colorado Parks & Wildlife. years ahead.

HCA: What is the most important thing Colorado’s As governor, I will resist federal efforts to dictate wa- anglers should know about you as you become our ter decisions, as well as any attempt to export our new Governor? water to moneyed interests outside of our state. We must also continue the work of formulating interstate I really care deeply about our land and water. Climate contingency plans that benefit Colorado, and which change is reducing availability of snowpack and seacan be implemented as we face warmer temperatures sonal availability of fresh water, and is accelerating and diminished reservoir levels. And, we must respect species decline, extinction, and warming of our coldthe critical role of the Colorado Water Conservation water trout streams. It’s a challenge that we must face Board and the Interbasin Compact Committee in de- with courage and foresight, and is one that I embrace. veloping our water policies.

As Trout Unlimited scientists wrote in Beyond SeaBy continuing to prioritize conservation and the sons End, we need to focus conservation efforts on health of our rivers, and investing in new water in- watershed-scale riparian restoration projects that infrastructure technology, I am confident we can meet volve public and private partners up and down the waall of our growing water needs along the Front Range tershed, and strive to reestablish and improve stream without sacrificing the health of Colorado’s rivers. connectivity, increase available habitat, and protect strongholds. As governor, I’ll direct the Department HCA: One of the most important ways in which of Natural Resources to identify likely threats from Colorado’s governors influence anglers is through climate change, human development, and invasive appointments to bodies including the Parks and species to Colorado’s ecosystems, and work with partWildlife Commission, Water Quality Control ners like TU to develop comprehensive plans to imCommission, Water Conservation Board, and oth- prove ecological resilience and mitigate the effects of ers. What qualifications and qualities will you look warming on Colorado’s cold-water trout streams. for in those you appoint to such commissions and HC

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Donor Spotlight A conversation with Allen Adinoff and Mary Klinnert In this issue of High Country Angler, Colorado TU will introduce you to members of our new planned giving program, the River Legacy Society. Donors to the River Legacy Society make a lifetime gift to help sustain Colorado TU’s work now and into the future. These generous contributions provide critical support for our work on native trout reintroduction, habitat restoration, grassroots engagement, youth education, and advocacy on behalf of healthy watersheds.

• Allen Adinoff, MD and Mary Klinnert, PhD • TU members since 2005 • Inaugural River Legacy Society donors

What brought you to Trout Unlimited?

Allen was introduced to TU in 2005 by a patient.

They were chatting about fly fishing and the patient invited him to the annual fundraiser for the Cutthroat Chapter of TU. Soon after, Allen began attending chapter meetings. In 2007, longtime TU member Sharon Lance recruited Allen for the Cut-

throat Chapter Board, and he has been involved in a chapter leadership role ever since. When Cam Chandler moved over to the Colorado TU Board in 2015, Allen stepped into the role of Chapter President and is currently serving his 3rd year of a twoyear term! Allen is quick to add that the Cutthroat Board has many talented people who fill roles from Treasurer to Secretary to Conservation Chair and more, and he feels fortunate to be part of a Chapter with so many committed members and great projects!

Although Mary is not an angler, both she and Allen appreciate the passion and dedication of the TU members and supporters around the state who are committed to making their local watersheds healthier and the fishing better. It is impressive to them to see the major league projects that TU chapters around the state take on, and the impact TU has made in Colorado over the past thirteen years they’ve been involved.

Why did you become a donor to Colorado Trout Unlimited?

Allen and Mary made a lifetime gift in 2018 and became the first members of our newly-minted planned giving group – the River Legacy Society. As an avid angler and with more than a decade of involvement in TU, Allen felt strongly about making a contribution that would help Colorado TU both survive and thrive well into the future.

Mary values the conservationside of Colorado TU’s work, and helped to guide their decision to direct their gift in support of ongoing habitat restoration work around the state.

Both Allen and Mary felt it was important to give in ways that were future-focused and valued the natural world. Their decision to make Colorado TU part

of their estate planning was due to the organization’s longevity, management, ongoing commitment to collaboration, and effectiveness in protecting and restoring our state’s rivers and wild places.

What are some of the projects Colorado TU works on that interest you most?

Allen and Mary are interested in many of the project areas Colorado TU works on, from habitat restoration to river and public lands advocacy. They firmly believe Colorado TU’s presence at the state legislature is an important component to making sure our rivers and fisheries have a voice in decision making.

Earlier this year, Allen joined Colorado TU lobbyist Jen Boulton, on a trip to visit a key State Senator on the Finance Committee to discuss the CPW fee increase bill. The bill made it out of committee on a unanimous vote and later passed the full Senate.

Allen appreciated the opportunity to participate in the advocacy side of Colorado TU’s work, and saw firsthand the value of sharing your voice on behalf of our state’s rivers and wildlife!

Please tell us one of your favorite fishing stories.

Mary and Allen’s first vacation before they were married was a float trip down the Yampa River in 1986. Both remember it as a defining moment in their mutual commitment to rivers and the natural world. Over the years, they have been fortunate to make yearly trips to lakes in northern Minnesota where Mary’s family resides. Allen first learned to fish on these lakes as did their children. Mary, Allen, and their two, now adult, children have been gathering at this lake property and fishing with the same guide, a local biology teacher named Tim, for over twenty years. The entire family has made it a point to spend time outdoors together, camping and fishing in places around Colorado, Minnesota, and beyond. Allen’s favorite places to fish include bass fishing on Minnesota lakes, and trout fishing at Deckers here in Colorado.

Please tell us a little about yourself.

Mary is from a large family and grew up in Minnesota. She credits her love of the outdoors to her time spent on the family farm. She attended the University of Minnesota. After moving to Denver, Mary completed her PhD in Clinical Psychology at the University of Denver. She spent her career working at National Jewish Health and focused her practice on both the clinical and research side of children with medical issues.

Allen grew up in the Detroit area and attended the University of Michigan for both his undergraduate studies and medical school. He moved to Denver in 1977 for his residency training and completed his fellowship in allergy and immunology at National Jewish Health. Allen and Mary met at National Jewish and were married in 1987. In 1989, Allen joined the practice at the Colorado Allergy and Asthma Centers. He retired from the Center this past January.

Allen and Mary have a son, Sam, who lives in Denver, a daughter, Lizzie, who lives in Ann Arbor, and son Joseph, who lives with his family (including 4 children) in Jerusalem.

Colorado Trout Unlimited is incredibly grateful to Allen and Mary for their generous contribution supporting habitat restoration work around the state. They are giving a deeply meaningful gift that will not only leave a lasting mark on Colorado TU, but more importantly on the Colorado rivers that Allen and Mary love. Best of all, they will get to see many of the results of their legacy gift in the coming years, and get to experience the waters where their generosity is making a real difference.

“Allen and Mary have served and supported Colorado Trout Unlimited as active members, vocal advocates, and volunteer leaders. With this generous financial donation, Allen and Mary are again leading by example. Obviously, we are thrilled with their decision to make this significant gift. We are also very excited that they have creatively structured their giving in a manner that will allow them to witness the impact their giving will have on Colorado’s rivers and watersheds.

This is a special gift from two special people!”

– Cam Chandler, CTU President

THE LAST CAST

•

JOHN NICKUM

Regulations: Necessary, but…

Q

I often see lakes or streams described as a “fishery” or “fisheries,” and see biologists listed as “fishery/fisheries managers,” but what does that really entail? Is it just about the fish?

You are not alone in wondering about the definition of these terms. Years ago when I taught courses in Fishery/Fisheries Management, I devoted a few minutes in the first class session to those definitions. The students usually arrived with some degree of understanding of the fact that a fishery involved more than just fish and water, but typically did not recognize the human dimensions of fisheries and fisheries management. Stocking programs and fishing regulations, such as catch limits, terminal tackle restrictions, and fishing seasons, are familiar to most anglers, but fisheries management involves much more.

Even formal definitions of the word(s) fishery/fisheries are complex, but generally describe all the actions and processes related to taking aquatic animals from their natural habitat(s) for sport or commercial purposes.

Fisheries management expands the matters under consideration to include all the ecological, biological, and human social activities that affect each fishery. A discussion of all such factors requires a book, and is way beyond the limits of this brief article. I will list many of the most important factors, but not attempt to ex-

A

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plain all the nuances facing fisheries managers.

But, first let’s explain some basic terms.

What, if anything, is the difference between “fishery” and “fisheries?” The term “fisheries” is simply the plural form of “fishery.” For the manager, multiple “fisheries” are more complex and complicated than a single “fishery.”

The term “fishes” describes more than one species of fish. In contrast, many individual fish all of the same species are still called “fish,” not “fishes. Although a fishery may focus on one species of fish, all of the fishes in the specific ecosystem must be considered by the manager.

Fisheries are typically named for the fish, or fishes. For example, a fishery focused on cutthroat trout in the Rio Grande is a Rio Grande cutthroat fishery; however, if our discussion is expanded to consider all cutthroats in all Colorado waters, then we are talking about Colorado cutthroat fisheries. Further expansion to cover all salmonid fishes in Colorado should be called Colorado salmonid fisheries. Naming the fishery is the simple part of the job.

Understanding all the factors influencing the fishery is much more complicated and more difficult to predict.

Obviously, fish live in water, so fishery management starts with accurate descriptions of the physical, morphological, and chemical characteristics of each stream, pond, lake, or reservoir, including the topography and geological characteristics of the watershed. Seasonal variations in chemical characteristics and physical traits, such as flow rates or lake/ reservoir levels are additional factors to be considered. Water temperatures and seasonal variations in them often define a fishery as a

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warm-water fishery, cool-water fishery, or cold-water fishery. Each species of fish has a known set of temperature limits that define their presence—or absence—in a specific body of water. For example, most trout prefer temperatures under 65 F and are seldom found in waters where temperatures exceed 75 F. In contrast, fish from tropical origins, such as tilapia, do not tolerate temperatures below 45 F – 50 F even for brief periods of time.

Among chemical factors, dissolved oxygen concentrations and variations in them are probably most important. Again, most species of fish have defined limits that must be met or exceeded. Even brief fluctuations below their required standards can be deadly.

Toxic pollutants are another set of factors that managers must consider. Although chemicals, such as calcium, nitrogen, and phosphorus generally do not affect fish directly, they do determine the biological productivity of each body of water, and are therefore yet another set of factors important to the fishery and the fisheries managers. The list of chemical factors of importance is long, and fisheries managers must be competent in basic analytical chemistry.

The biological characteristics of each body of water include long lists of microscop-

ic plants (algae) and macroscopic aquatic plants, plus literally dozens (even hundreds) of invertebrate animals, such as protozoa, cladocera, rotifers, and copepods. Besides the fish that are the target of the fishery, additional species of fishes may have positive or negative effects on the populations of the species preferred by anglers. Once again, fishery management plans must recognize the influences of these biological factors.

An often overlooked aspect of fisheries management is an array of “human dimensions”—ranging from the economic status of the anglers, to age, ethnicity, rural-versusurban residence, and their gender identification. One of my former graduate student advisees studied and identified substantial differences between men and women with respect to why they fished. In addition to these basic human dimension factors, legal and regulatory constraints promulgated by various government bodies add to the multitude of concerns that affect the decisions and actions of fisheries managers.

The factors I have mentioned (and more that could have been included if this had been a book length article), make it clear: “fisheries management” is more—much more—than just setting regulations and stocking schedules.

HC

About The Author John Nickum, is a retired PhD. fishery biologist whose career has included positions as professor at research universities including Iowa State and Cornell University, director of the Fish and Wildlife Service’s fisheries research facility in Bozeman, MT, and science officer for the Fish and Wildlife Service’s Mountain-Prairie Region. He was inducted into the National Fish Culture Hall of Fame in 2008.

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