BREAKING THE SURFACE
BY LANDON MAYER
BEAVER CREEK
INSIDE COLORADO TROUT UNLIMITED’S NEW LOOK
POSITIVE SIGNS OF AQUATIC LIFE IN THE COLORADO RIVER
PHOTO RECAP
BY BRIAN LA RUE
GALLATIN CROSSWATERS ESTATE MANHATTAN, MONTANA
320± acre property 30 minutes to Bozeman. Outstanding luxury accommodations fronting the East and West Gallatin Rivers. Tremendous recreational amenities. Sold fully furnished and equipped.
Reduced to $16,200,000
THE FORT RANCH ON THE YELLOWSTONE BIG TIMBER, MONTANA
Magical 141± acre Yellowstone River ranch retreat with custom home and guest apartment overlooking the river toward snowcapped peaks. A superb horse property with irrigated meadows, barn, and outdoor riding arena.
$6,200,000
CROSS F RANCH UCROSS, WYOMING
Recreational ranch with 2,838± acres (1,358± deeded) on both sides of Piney Creek located 20 miles southeast of Sheridan. With excellent trout fishing, a broad variety of wildlife, solid grazing, and 300± acres of irrigation.
Reduced to $11,900,000
GORE RANGE RANCH KREMMLING, COLORADO
Highlighted by stunning mountain scenery and prime big game habitat, this 516± acre ranch is located within Grand River Ranch, providing exclusive access to outstanding fishing, equestrian and lodging amenities
$4,750,000
Fly fishing is extraordinary on this 1,155± acre northern California cattle ranch on the Fall River. The Island Ranch has comfortable improvements, abundant wildlife and big views of Mount Shasta. Seven miles of river frontage.
$7,850,000
26± acre sporting and lifestyle retreat with 1,700± feet of Snake River frontage. Two renovated homes plus multi-purpose buildings and a boat launch. 18± sprinkler-irrigated acres. Includes extensive personal property.
$3,500,000
SNAKE RIVER RETREAT GLENNS FERRY, IDAHO
ISLAND RANCH FALL RIVER MILLS, CALIFORNIA
PUBLISHERS
Jack Tallon & Frank Martin
CONTENT CONSULTANT
Landon Mayer
EDITORIAL
Frank Martin, Managing Editor frank@hcamagazine.com
Landon Mayer, Editorial Consultant
Ruthie Martin, Editor
ADVERTISING
Brian La Rue, Sales & Marketing brian@hcamagazine.com Direct: ( 720) 202-9600
Mark Shulman, Ad Sales Cell: (303) 668-2591 mark@hcamagazine.com
DESIGN
David Martin, Creative Director & Graphic Designer
PHOTOGRAPHY
Frank Martin, Landon Mayer, Brian LaRue, Angus Drummond
STAFF WRITERS
Frank Martin, Landon Mayer, Brian LaRue, Joel Evans, David Nickum, John Nickum, Peter Stitcher
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.
Distributed by High Country Publications, LLC 730 Popes Valley Drive Colorado Springs, Colorado 80919 FAX 719-593-0040
Published in cooperation with Colorado Trout Unlimited 1536 Wynkoop Street, Suite 320 Denver, CO 80202 www.coloradotu.org
PHOTO BY LANDON MAYER
BREAKING THE SURFACE BY LANDON MAYER
Most anglers are taught the basics of nymphing when learning how to fly fish, but due to the amount of information that is being conveyed, what they learn is usually very basic. Since the majority of a trout’s diet is obtained in subsurface conditions, it is important to have a better understanding of how to present your flies while nymphing.
To become the best angler you can be, you need to understand the feeding behavior of the fish you a pursuing, and determine where a majority of their food is obtained. For trout, the majority of their diet is obtained in subsurface waters, and this is where most trout feed on a variety of insects without expending a lot of energy. Understanding the water columns where the fish are holding and feeding is important, especially when determining what adjustments are needed while nymphing.
Understanding Water Columns
There are three basic columns below the surface of the water where fish will hold:
1. Top
2. Middle
3. Bottom
Top Column
Located closest to the surface of the water, this is the easiest depth to get a visual of the trout and determine its feeding activity. Other times, the trout residing here are feeding on emerging insects or adult insects that have been drawn below the surface. While
it is easy to see the fish in action at this shallow depth, they are weary of predators from above and should be approached with caution.
Middle Column
The middle column is a prime location for trout to feed, because they have the ability to move up, down, and sideways to eat without expending a lot of energy. The trout at this depth will see a majority of feed moving through the water and be less wary of predators from above. For the angler, this makes it less of a challenge for your flies to pass through the prime feeding zone.
The Bottom Column
Without a doubt, this is the most challenging depth of water to catch trout, because the fish have a large window to see and investigate your flies. It is also hard to obtain a controlled drift to the fish with a variety of strange currents pushing your flies in various directions. The trout also have the tendency to occupy these depths on the river bottom when they are resting and staging with no intention to eat.
Making Adjustments
To be more effective in every subsurface situation, you need to be able to adjust to each unique area of water you’re fishing. The two main things you can gain control of by making the proper adjustments are:
1. The speed in which your flies sink
2. The placement of your flies below the surface of the water.
Sinking speed
To achieve the proper speed in which your flies sink, start with light weights and add weight if you need to get deeper. This allows your flies to drift through the top water column first, and give any fish in that area of the river a chance to encounter your flies. If there are no trout holding there, add weight gradually to reach the lower columns. By doing this, you won’t run the risk of spooking the fish in the run by snagging the river bottom or rub the fish with your leader tippet.
Fly Placement
After you determine the depth the trout are holding in the river, you need to position your flies so that they descend to the correct depth. This is easily achieved with the use of an indicator, or by determining how far up stream your fly should land. Place your indicator/hopper one foot above the depth of the water you are fishing. This will allow your flies to sink to the depth of their feed, and that extra foot will give
you room to adjust if needed. If you are not using an indicator, find an area upstream of the fish to cast to, allowing your flies time to sink to the fish. If the water is deeper, cast further upstream, allowing more time for your flies to sink. In shallow water, cast a shorter distance upstream, since your flies don’t need as much time to sink to the fish. This will give you the control you need to properly plan your imitations to the fish. The under-water world of the trout is mysterious place that is a challenge for any angler to understand. But with practice and dedication, you can begin to understand how they feed and behave in this under water environment. These techniques will play a huge part in your success with subsurface trout, and with practice, you too will fool the weariest of trout!
About Landon
Landon Mayer is a veteran Colorado guide and author of several books. His newest book, Guide Flies: Easy-to-Tie Patterns for Tough Trout, can be purchased on his website at www.landonmayerflyfishing.com. You can follow Landon on Instagram at @landonmayerflyfishing.
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BEAVER
FISH, SMILES, & VIEWS FOR DAYS
by Brian La Rue
BEAVER CREEK:
Photos by Vince Puzick
When it comes to taking beginners fly fishing, you’ll always want to look for ample casting space, stable footing and willing fish. Well, Beaver Creek (out of Colorado Springs) checks all the boxes and offers meadow fishing with easy access, beauty, and miles of trout.
The section of Beaver Creek below Skaguay Reservoir offers a long meadow stretch that runs almost three miles before it drops into an untamed, un-trailed, harsh canyon that few venture into. I don’t know how adventurous you are, but that “untamed” sounds good to me! But let’s focus on the easy three miles for this story, because I’m not getting any younger.
The meadow section does see pressure as anglers will enjoy
the area on the weekends, but the area/trail is more known for backpacking and hiking. Also factor in the occasional free-range bull (maybe don’t wear a red shirt), and the fact that most fish are on the smaller side, and you’ll see it’s not that crowded. Follow the trail to stay close to the water and avoid any private property. And as with any trail along water, the further you hike, the less anglers you will see.
Friend of Angler’s Covey and Beaver Creek regular Vince Puzick says, “One of the best things about fishing Beaver Creek is that you may not run into another angler in the three miles or so that the creek meanders from Skaguay to the drop off into the canyon. You may run into some grazing cattle, though, and the bulls can be a bit intimidating if you walk up on them, but it's a fair trade-off.
“Part of the reason that there is not much competition to fish the long, riffle-dotted runs or smaller, deep holes is that most folks don't want to walk a long way for smaller fish,” added Puzick. “The largest that you might net is 8 to 10 inches. But you may also
catch 20-25 fish in the three or four hours you take to walk the creek back to the dam.”
Beaver Creek is a great place to take kids and beginner fly fishers as it offers runs, pools, even beaver ponds and an ample supply of rainbows, browns and cutthroat trout. Getting to the creek is easy. It’s about 50 miles from Colorado Springs, but here is the part that keeps a few from venturing out-- you’ll be on a dirt road for a while! If that doesn’t scare you off, park off the upper road above the dam and follow the trail down along the creek.
As we all know, smaller trout aren’t finicky. Your standard attractor patterns like Hoppers, Elk Hair Caddis, Amy’s Ant and Yellow Humpies will turn heads here. If the surface grabs are few and far between, tie on a small beadhead dropper to get the party started. As with any creek connected to beaver ponds, there could be the potential of something a little larger, but count on the average cutthroat to be small to medium at best.
Besides the beaver ponds, there are some deep
pools which can harbor quality fish, so you never know what might rise to your fly or grab your dropper.
Since you are parking at the dam, yes, you will be walking down creek, so it’s best to hike along the creek and then fish back for that optimal casting upstream approach. Standard regulations apply here but be warned--practice a little stealth and use lighter tippets and you will catch more than the other anglers on the creek.
“A stealthy approach is absolutely necessary,” added Puzick. “My wife and I usually cast to fish at the near bank, and then cast to the middle holes and runs, and then to the other bank. Make an abrupt approach or make what I call a splash-down cast, and you'll watch a handful of fish take cover.
“More precise casting is necessary,” continued Pizick. “I love to challenge myself to get a cast under the far bank, or beneath overhanging willows, to try and get a fish to rise. I've used the ‘bow-and-arrow cast’ on occasion for that purpose. Working on the accuracy to make those casts on a small stream can pay off on larger rivers like the South Platte or Ar-
kansas as well.”
Take your camera because you will want to take pictures of the gorgeous views in the valley. It’s a beautiful area and bald eagles are often seen. Be aware of building storms, because they can come quickly and be severe. It is usually best to arrive and fish in the morning, have lunch, and head back during the summer storm season.
Okay I can’t resist, the hike into the canyon below the three miles isn’t for the faint of heart, but people do it. I have yet to do it, but there’s a total of 12 miles of wilderness area full of wildlife and trout that rarely see a fly. Few people are known to leapfrog rocks and scrap against 1,000-foot canyon walls while fishing and camping overnight in there, but take plenty of water, and it’s probably not the best idea during an active thunderstorm week. Talk to the team at Angler’s Covey—they can probably give you a better idea if it’s even worth it.
Speaking of Angler’s Covey, give them a call at (719) 471-2984 for the latest fly or flow information. All photos courtesy Vince Puzick.
About The Author
High Country Angler contributor Brian La Rue enjoys giving fly fishers ideas of where to go for an adventure. Feel free to reach out to Brian at Brian@hcamagazine. com if you want your lodge or guide service featured in an upcoming promotional marketing plan.
Thousands of anglers, guides, lodges, and shops served since 1999.
Colorado Family and Veteran owned and operated.
Morning in the Canyon
In order to keep the weight of my pack to a minimum, and trusting in the weather forecast that predicted no chance of rain for the next several days, I’d opted against taking a tent down into the canyon. I’d turned in with nightfall, the heat of the day still radiating off the surrounding rock. I woke several times during the night to critters of some description crawling across my face and arms. I told myself they were freshly-emerged stoneflies - benign, and a harbinger of what I hoped was to be a day of large fish caught on large flies.
I rose as dawn returned shape and contour to the canyon walls. What had loomed dark and featureless in silhouette against the night sky now slowly transformed into near-sheer cliffs of smoky grey, orange, and ochre. I lit my stove and boiled water for tea, then sat on a boulder and alternately watched the river and the line of shadow slowly descending toward camp as the sun rose higher in the sky.
The air still held pleasantly cool, but that would change as soon as the sunlight hit the canyon floor. For me this was the prime time to be fishing the river. Late morning onwards the heat would sap any excess
energy. The stoneflies seemed to agree. While active in the morning, once the sun began to bake they would retreat to whatever shade they could find - willows, box elders, cottonwoods - and rest up or procreate. I would follow suit, as least as far as resting up went. Afternoons down in the canyon were for napping, waiting for evening shadows to once again reclaim the river.
We’d made camp just downstream from a side canyon. Flash floods over time had created a small rapid below its mouth. At the head of the rapid was a large pool, and as I sat, an audible sucking sound accompanied an expanding dimple toward the middle of the pool as a hapless stonefly met its demise. Two more followed in quick succession, one closer to me, the other across the far side of the river.
A man can only take so much peace and quiet. I drained my tea, then retrieved my rod from its resting place and returned to the boulder, then sat and watched some more. After a couple of minutes, another rise form emanated from the same general location as the first. I watched as from toward the head of the pool, a stonefly came into view, alternately skittering in circles across the surface, then lying motionless, low in the water. Inevitably, as it approached the danger zone, it disappeared in another boil.
I’d seen enough. I walked to the water’s edge, stripped several handfuls of line from the reel, then cast the fly as far out into the middle of the pool as I could manage. Beyond the range of an effective mend, I hoped the feeder would overlook a less than stellar drift in return for what looked to me to be a tantalizing snack.
The fish thought so too, and rose without guile to inhale my offering from below. Given the distance be-
tween me and it, I set hard and high, hoping I could overcome the slack line on the water. I immediately felt its weight, keeping the rod high and stripping line as fast as I could manage.
As I started to think I was gaining the upper hand, the fish reminded me who was really in charge. It dove deep into the pool, then leaped airborne, shaking free of the hook with nonchalant ease. All I had to console myself with was that I hadn’t lost the fly. By now the aroma of bacon cooking had wafted upstream to where I stood, contemplating my next move. I decided on several drifts closer in, where I’d seen the second rise, but nothing since.
First cast and a fish rose to the fly. This time, with no slack on the water, I gained a heavy set, then tried to corral the fish in the pool as it attempted to run downstream into the rapid. It was now I realized I had left my net back at camp. With the fish in close and most line back on the reel, I walked back up the bank, drawing the fish onto a small patch of sand where it lay on its side, accepting its fate. I slipped the hook from its mouth, then with a wet hand gently nudged it back into the water, whereupon it disappeared with the flick of its tail.
I walked back to where fresh bacon now awaited and boiled more water. The first of the sun’s rays hit camp. I slipped off my
shoes and let my feet sink into the still-cool sand. Already it had been a great day, with the promise of more to come.
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 semi-retired fly fishing guide, he juggles helping his wife raise two teenage daughters, along with a career in real estate.
Fly fishing guide. Real Estate guide.
Recreation, residential, retirement, investment.
Hayden Mellsop
InsIde the new Look
Ifyou’ve noticed something different about Colorado Trout Unlimited lately, you’re not alone.
The state’s leading coldwater conservation organization has launched a fresh visual identity and clearer message, but the heart of its mission remains the same. With a new logo, updated tagline, and revitalized messaging, CTU is doubling down on what has always made its work matter: the people, places, and partnerships that protect clean, fishable waters for future generations.
At the center of the rebrand is a simple but powerful line: Every River Needs a Champion.
This new tagline captures what TU has always stood for: people who step up, speak out, and roll up their sleeves to care for rivers and streams across the country. Whether you're restoring habitat, advocating for better water policy, or teaching kids to tie their first fly, this updated identity is designed to reflect and support that work more clearly.
The updated logo incorporates the iconic leaping trout but modernizes its look, giving CTU a more flexible and recognizable presence across digital and print platforms. The organization also introduced refreshed fonts and color palettes that better reflect the coldwater landscapes it protects, from alpine headwaters to desert tailwaters.
But the rebrand is about more than design. It is part of a broader effort to unify TU’s chapters, volunteers, and staff under a shared message that is clear, consistent, and focused on impact. The changes align with the One TU vision, helping all parts of the organization speak with a single voice. That includes local chapters installing riparian fencing, as well as the national team working on federal conservation policy.
This renewed identity will be rolling out over the coming months through social media, chapter materials, event signage, and more. You will see it on streambanks, in classrooms, and at fly shops around the state.
If you are part of the TU community, this is your brand too. It represents who we are, what we care about, and how we show up - for trout, for rivers, and for each other.
Because every river needs a champion. And together, we are that champion.
To learn more about this story and Colorado Trout Unlimited, visit coloradotu.org.
To Learn More.
CtU stReaM GIRLs CaMp
wIth GIRL sCoUts of
CoLoRado
what Is stReaM GIRLs?
STREAM Girls is Trout Unlimited’s youth education program that builds on STEM learning by adding recreation and art—turning STEM into “STREAM.” The program helps young people explore their local watersheds by investigating streams, studying aquatic insects and fish, and developing a deeper awareness of river conservation. Through hands-on experiences as scientists, artists, and anglers, participants build a personal connection to their home waters.
oUtdooR adVentURe weekend at sky hIGh RanCh
From April 11–13, 2025, Colorado Trout Unlimited’s Headwaters Youth staff—Natalie Flowers (Director of Education) and Cyndy Scholz (Colorado STREAM Programs Coordinator)—teamed up with
the Girl Scouts of Colorado to bring the STREAM Girls experience to their Outdoor Adventure Camp at Sky High Ranch in Woodland Park.
The weekend began with a STREAM Girls training for about a dozen adult volunteers, including Girl Scout troop leaders and members of the Pikes Peak Chapter of Trout Unlimited (PPCTU). Volunteers practiced sampling macroinvertebrates, created insect replicas in a “Build-a-Bug” craft, and learned games like the Trout Survival Game—activities they can now take back to their troops.
When the Girl Scouts arrived Friday evening, they kicked things off with icebreakers and a creative cookie-decorating session—designing and naming their own fish-shaped treats.
On Saturday, everyone hiked to a small stream on the property to collect and observe aquatic insects. Back at the lodge, the Girl Scouts learned to tie a
caddis fly, a staple in any angler’s fly box.
In the afternoon, the group headed to nearby Manitou Lake for casting practice and fly fishing—and several girls caught their first trout!
It was a joy to watch the Girl Scouts and CTU volunteers fully engaged in each activity, learning together, asking questions, and gaining confidence in both science and the outdoors.
CTU is excited to host more STREAM Girls and youthfocused events across Colorado in 2025 and beyond. We’re expanding to reach youth of all ages—and we’d love for you to join us in inspiring the next generation of river stewards.
3 Reasons You Need to Say “Yes” to a Guided Fishing Trip
by Peter Stitcher
Ascent Fly Guides Director of Guide Operations - Jeff Sirbu
For years, I would dismiss the things that would truly bring me joy and better health with the false promise of “Someday.” “Someday I’ll start working out and get serious about my health; Someday I’ll have time and learn to paint; Someday I’ll go to Belize, Alaska, New Zealand, and take that fishing trip I always wanted to take.” Like misguided martyrs, we lie to ourselves, choosing instead to keep our heads down, grinding through the work week, and banking our nickels and joys with the hopes of spending them in retirement. “Someday” however is not a guarantee, nor are the health and vitality that will allow us to pursue these passions and selfcare in the future. So, if spending more time on the water and learning to become a better fly fisher are on your wish list, I want to encourage you with these 3 reasons why you should say YES to a guided fly-fishing trip THIS SEASON!
Say YES to Kickstarting Life-Giving Rhythms
Self-care and creating life giving habits all start with you saying YES. Hiring a fly-fishing guide is a lot like hiring a personal trainer when you just start going to the gym. Having a pro bring you to the fish, tie on your flies, making you lunch, and helping you work out the kinks in your casting is a great way to get started again. Not only will it save you the frustration of a less than fruitful day on the river, you will almost certainly see more fish in the net and feel greater confidence as you start fishing this season! A good fishing experience will make it more likely that you will continue in prioritizing regular trips to the river as part of your self-care rhythm.
Say YES to Learning from the Pros
Hiring an experienced, client focused fly-fishing guide who can meet you and educate you where you are is one of the best ways to cut the learning curve, avoid frustrating months on the water, and help you become a more successful fly fisher.
When hiring a fishing guide, I encourage you to ask that guide every question that comes to your mind! “Where do you think the fish would be in this stretch of river?” “Walk me through how you selected these fly patterns?” “Would you please talk me through why you change the indicator position and fly depth as we fish this section of river?” A good guide will help you to become a more confident and indepen-
To learn more about the waters we guide and our client first services at ascentflyfishing.com, or by calling 720-580-9558.
dent angler! When you hire a flyfishing guide, the expert and their extensive experience is at your disposal, so come to the water ready for school!
Say YES to Family Harmony
Have you ever tried teaching your spouse or teenage children something? For the sake of your marital and familial harmony, it is more than worth the cost of a guide and a healthy tip to have someone else patiently, with humor, and encouragement, teach your loved ones to fly fish! A good guide is a great educator, and this is what they love to do! Employing a guide will help to ensure that you all have a great time on the water, and make it much more likely that your partner and kids don’t leave the water jaded, but instead will look forward to going fishing with you again!
About The Author
I encourage you to look at the small investment in a guided fishing trip as a deposit in your personal health and a pastime that will bring you joy for the years to come. A guide is there to help you in this journey, ensuring that you maintain harmony in the family and shorten your learning curve! If you are ready to say YES to a guide this season, please reach out to Ascent Fly Guides and let our team of passionate professional guides and educators serve you and your family this season.
Peter Stitcher is an aquatic biologist by vocation and the owner of Ascent Fly Fishing located in Littleton CO and online at ascentflyfishing.com. Peter has written the “Bug Bites” column in High Country Angler for the last 7 years. Whether you are new to fly fishing or are a seasoned angler, Peter and the team at Ascent Fly Fishing would love to be a resource in equipping you, your family, and friends to help you get out on the water and experience it in a way that is life giving for you!
In the CLassRooM
by Joel L. Evans
Trout in the Classroom, or TIC, is a national program whereby fish eggs are delivered to a school classroom, hatched and raised by students, then released as fry into a local lake or river. Wow!
First piloted in 1997 in New York state by Trout Unlimited, TIC utilizes live fish, so it does have a fishing connection, but only remotely so. First and foremost, it is an educational program.
“STEM” is an educational curriculum acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. Me not being an educator, I relied on the internet for an official definition. Which describes STEM as a “hands-on, problembased approach to learning”. There are many specific programs, with TIC being just one of them. I would say TIC focuses on the sci-
ence aspect but indeed touches all four disciplines.
Here's how it works. First, before the STEM stuff comes along, one has to talk school administrative approval and money. The program costs about $3,000 per class. This of course means a school needs to fund this internally, or more commonly, solicit an external sponsor. The largest single expense is the first-year purchase of a large aquarium and all the systems, such as water heaters, pumps, filters, etc. Given a second year, the cost drops as the aquarium can be reused, leaving fish food as the largest cost in subsequent years.
Now with approval and funding secured, and an aquarium set up, here comes the fish. In Colorado, the fish--more specifically fish eggs--come from the Colorado Parks and Wildlife, from a state hatchery. The eggs, typically rainbow trout numbering about 200, are delivered in the fall. Then the STEM kicks
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in. Thru the course of the school year, fall to spring, students raise the fish from eggs to swim-up fry, to fingerlings of several inches. In the spring, the fingerlings are carefully released in a local river or lake to continue on as nature allows.
The live released fish sort-of makes this a fishing story, but really it is about the science, biology, water management, life cycle, and miniature ecosystem of the aquarium. Importantly, it is also about responsibility of regular and on-going care of a live subject and the consequences of failure. The percentage survival rate is typically less than half, which may or may not be due to improper care. Lack of care will result in loss of fish, but many will die simply because nature will have its way.
There are hundreds of classroom programs across the country every year.
TIC requires money, and a commitment of time from the school district, the individual school administration, and most importantly, the teachers. But just think how impactful hands-on learning is. One
example – instead of discussing the pH level of water from a textbook, students personally gather water samples and conduct pH readings.
So, no more skipping school “to go fishing!”
For More Information
Learn more about Trout in the Classroom at www.troutintheclassroom.org.
About The Author
Joel Evans is president of the Gunnison Gorge Anglers chapter and the current Southwest Regional Vice President of Colorado Trout Unlimited.
A NEWS RELEASE FROM COLORADO PARKS
AQUATIC LIFE IN THE CONNECTIVITY CHANNEL
by Rachael Gonzales
PARKS AND WILDLIFE
Photos by Colorado Parks and Wildlife
GRANBY, Colo. — Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) saw an increase in the native fish population numbers more quickly than anticipated in the recently completed Colorado River Connectivity Channel (CRCC) project at Windy Gap Reservoir, located near Granby, Colo.
In early May, CPW Aquatic biologists completed the first-ever raft electrofishing survey to estimate the trout population in the CRCC. Biologists esti-
connected river sections both upstream and downstream have been able to re-establish in the newly reconnected section of the Colorado River. CPW biologists also observed extensive brown trout spawning activity in the channel last fall and moderate rainbow trout spawning activity this spring.
“Seeing such positive results with water flowing through this new river section for just over a year, we anticipate that this fish population will continue to grow,” said Ewert.
mated that approximately 848 brown trout and 221 rainbow trout over 6" in length live within a onemile reach of the newly constructed river channel.
"It was very exciting to see a healthy number of adult trout occupying all of this new habitat," said Jon Ewert, CPW Hot Sulphur Springs Area Aquatic Biologist. "Especially considering that we have not stocked a single fish into the channel.”
As a result of the improved habitat, trout from
Click to watch: Videos from this year's Colorado River Connectivity Channel fish survey
This is the second time CPW has documented positive signs of native fish repopulating the CRCC earlier than anticipated. In the fall of 2024, CPW's aquatic research team found evidence of native sculpin returning to
A CPW aquatic research technician holds a juvenile sculpin documented below the Colorado River Connectivity Channel during a fish survey in fall 2024.
the upper Colorado River and the CRCC after several decades of absence in nearly 30 miles of their former habitat. Sculpin found in the CRCC and downstream in the Colorado River included fish that were spawned and hatched in 2024.
During the survey, researchers documented one adult and 11 juvenile sculpin within the CRCC and a single juvenile sculpin in the Colorado River below the channel. Based on these sampling results, aquatic biologists and researchers from CPW believe that young sculpin are now able to take advantage of the new habitat and are dispersing downstream from healthy populations located upstream of the CRCC.
“The rapid colonization of the CRCC by this unique native fish species and its return to the Colorado River below Windy Gap is an important conservation milestone and a good indication that the channel is starting to improve the ecological health of the river," said Dan Kowalski, CPW Aquatic Research Scientist.
While the beneficial effects of the CRCC may take years to be fully realized, the results from the fish surveys conducted in May 2025 and fall 2024 represent significant milestones in the efforts to enhance habitat conditions in the upper Colorado River. These findings suggest that the health of the river may be improving more quickly than expected.
A close-up of a juvenile sculpin documented below the Colorado River Connectivity Channel during a fish survey in fall 2024.
Completed in the fall of 2023, the Colorado River Connectivity Project is one of the largest aquatic habitat improvement initiatives ever undertaken in Colorado. This project reconnects aquatic habitats that were fragmented by the construction of the Windy Gap Reservoir in 1985. Currently, the new river section is closed to public fishing access. It is expected to open after the area has had sufficient time to fully revegetate, which will take a couple more growing seasons. To learn more about the Colorado River Connectivity Channel Project, visit the project's page on Northern Water’s website
To learn more
To learn more about this and other stories, visit cpw.state.co.us.
keep the CoLoRado RIVeR fLowInG
by Colorado TU Staff
Water rights are central to our rivers, communities and economy in Colorado – and few are as important as the Shoshone hydropower water right in Glenwood Canyon. The Shoshone Water Right is the largest and most senior non-consumptive water right on the Colorado River. It is particularly important in preserving winter flows through upstream sections of the Colorado River and tributaries like the Fraser, Eagle and Blue. While senior irrigation rights in the Grand Valley can help call water down the river during the summer growing season, Shoshone is the critical water right in keeping a minimum flow coming down the river for hydropower generation during the non-irrigation season.
Unfortunately, the Shoshone hydropower plant –whose electricity generation is the beneficial use toward which the Shoshone water right is applied – is aging and has faced more frequent outages in recent years. While water user agreements have helped provide temporary measures to keep the river flowing during such outages, a long-term solution is needed to protect the Colorado River when the plant is offline or if it were ever to face permanent closure.
Enter the Colorado River Water Conservation District. The Colorado River District has led a Shoshone Water Right Preservation Coalition with diverse stakeholders working toward permanent protection of the historic water right. Preserving the water right will support benefits both upstream and downstream for Colorado’s environment, economy, communities and water users.
In December 2023, the Colorado River District and Xcel Energy finalized a Purchase & Sale Agreement for the water rights tied to hydroelectric power production at the Shoshone Power Plant. The $99 million agreement is a
fundamental first step toward permanent protection of the most senior (1902) and junior (1929), nonconsumptive water right on the upper Colorado River – which command critical flows both upstream and downstream of the hydroelectric plant.
More recently, the Colorado Water Conservation Board has initiated the process to consider accepting the Shoshone right as an instream flow, so that it could be maintained as an instream flow water right with its same senior 1902 and 1929 priority dates as an alternate use when the hydropower plant was unable to generate. Colorado TU is joining diverse stakeholders to support the instream flow proposal. If approved, the CWCB and Colorado River District would then proceed to water court to secure a change in use on the water rights – at which point the extent of the water right (based on its historic use) and any adjustments needed to prevent injuring other water rights will be determined.
The goal is to keep the Shoshone water rights doing what they have done for more than 12- years: keeping the Colorado River flowing and supporting Colorado’s environment and economy.
This video from the Colorado River District tells the story of the Shoshone Water Right Preservation effort.
TROUTFEST COLORADO
WHERE CONSERVATION MEETS COMMUNITY AT COORS FIELD
On May 31, Colorado Trout Unlimited welcomed thousands of attendees to the heart of Denver for Troutfest Colorado, a free celebration of coldwater conservation, outdoor education, and community connection. Hosted at Coors Field, the event brought together families, anglers, outdoor enthusiasts, and curious newcomers for an afternoon of hands-on activities and inspiration.
From casting clinics and fly-tying demos to live music, kids’ education zones, and stadium tours, Troutfest offered something for everyone. This unique setting highlighted that conservation belongs everywhere, from wild rivers to city ballparks. With support from the Colorado Wildlife Council and the Colorado Lottery, and in partnership with the Outside Festival, Troutfest Colorado helped connect thousands to the mission of protecting and restoring Colorado’s rivers and streams.
The following photo essay captures just a glimpse of the energy, excitement, and community spirit that made this year’s event unforgettable.
The Last Cast
Dear Friends of Trout Unlimited,
The past 4 months have been challenging for all of us on a number of fronts, and I’ve been thinking a lot about how to be realistic about what is happening and at the same time remaining somewhat optimistic.
I looked back at the introductory column I wrote a year ago and was reminded of my reflections at that time: “Nothing in my experience has taught me that challenges and opportunities are so closely interwoven as much as volunteering in the conservation nonprofit space.” I didn’t expect to be so prophetic.
Conservation nonprofits like Trout Unlimited face a complex array of challenges that span political, financial, internal, and external landscapes. Organizations that are dedicated to safeguarding natural resources and promoting environmental stewardship are navigating an increasingly intricate situation where their work is met with both fervent support and significant opposition. The scrutiny and funding restrictions arising from the federal pause in contracted funding has been lifted and, thankfully, the TU backlog of projects in Colorado is now moving towards completion and environmental benefit. These restoration efforts create a ripple effect of positive impact on small businesses, local rural economies, property safety, climate resilience, and ultimately better trout habitat.
But the pause in funding has created an atmosphere of uncertainty that significantly complicates the pursuit of our mission. Frankly,
we don’t know if or when funding will be taken away again, and more significantly, the amount of allocated funds that will never be released.
Within the shifting political landscape, TU’s advocacy efforts are directly targeted to our mission. Defending public lands is a priority for Trout Unlimited. Effective management of these national assets is severely threatened by the large staff reductions within federal agencies. The reductions also compromise years of working relationships between local TU grassroot chapters and experts at the agencies. The controversy over the uses of public lands is acutely felt in the West. Public lands create strongholds of important fish and wildlife habitat and provide sources of clean water for millions of people, income for local communities, recreation opportunities and are some of the last pristine places in the country. Selling off public lands threatens rural economies and blocks access to the outdoors for anglers, hunters, campers, rafters, and many more.
You and I are what distinguishes TU from other conservation nonprofits. It's the grassroots energy of this organization that mobilizes support for protections like the bipartisan Public Lands in Public Hands Act (H.R. 718), which would keep public lands managed by the Department of the Interior, and U.S. Forest Service in public ownership, and ensures our public lands stay open to hunting, fishing, and multiple-use for all Americans. The bill is led by Congressman Zinke (R-MT) and Congressman Vasquez (D-NM). As the political landscape continues to shift, we can each respond
to a number of action alerts at https://standup. tu.org/. Your responses are making a difference The first attempt at public land sales was removed from the budget bill just this week as I compose this column.
As federal funding pauses and cuts pose a significant challenge for restoration efforts, the threat of economic downturns exacerbate these financial challenges by often leading to a reduction in both individual and corporate donations. According to the newsletter Carbon Switch, environmental nonprofits, in general, receive a surprisingly small portion of overall charitable giving in the United States. Of the $471 billion that donors gave to nonprofits in 2020, only $8 billion, less than 2%, went to environmental organizations. Underfunding of the environmental sector compared to other areas of philanthropy suggests that despite growing public awareness of our issues, these causes may not be prioritized by donors to the same extent as other societal needs. Indeed, there are needs everywhere we look. As individual donors we are faced with choosing what causes we use our own dollars to support.
For my personal philanthropic strategy, I hope to balance people and the environment, because ultimately, the environment benefits people. When we see ourselves as part of nature, it becomes clear that we cannot survive without protecting our air and water. That was the premise of the modern environmental movement in the 70’s and remains even more significant today.
Thus, I come back to my words of a year ago,
challenges and opportunities are closely interwoven. Sustaining the work of Trout Unlimited in Colorado will require us to remain focused on our purpose and our mission to care for and recover rivers and streams so our children can experience the joy of wild and native trout and salmon.
Your support energizes and motivates the TU volunteers and staff throughout Colorado to be true to the mission and continue towards our purpose. Given that we know the environment is not top of mind for donors, and the historically uncertain times we live in, there's never been a more important time for you to support Trout Unlimited.
Stay safe on the river, Barbara Luneau
About The Author
Barbara Luneau is Colorado Trout Unlimited’s President, a retired geologist, avid angler, and long-time TU volunteer at both local chapter and statewide levels. She has a deep commitment to youth programming, including serving as the volunteer director of the annual CTU River Conservation and Fly Fishing youth camp.
