grand outdoors
SPRING FLING
FLY FISHING ON COLORADO’S WEST SLOPE Words by Rebecca McKenna PRESTON ROBERTS | MONTROSE ANGLERS
C
olorado is known for its iconic
“The technique for casting is different [from
mountainscapes, wilderness and outdoor
conventional fishing] as it provides a therapeutic
adventures. When on the Western Slope,
zen between the angler and the water,” says Jeff
warmer temperatures mean spring recreational
McKenna, outfitter and guide with Colorado
activities like fly fishing are more plentiful
West Slope Fly Fishing.
and accessible. The Centennial State has over 105,000
lakes to flourish, thus the habitats for fish to
miles of rivers, 6,000 miles of streams and more
thrive as well. Western Colorado is home to many
than 1,300 lakes and reservoirs, which provide
famous waterways, including but not limited to
opportunities for magnificent fly fishing. These
the Colorado River, the Roaring Fork River, the
waterways hold 35 different species of warm-
Eagle River, the Frying Pan River, the Gunnison
water and cold-water fish. Fly fishing continues
River and the Uncompaghre River. “Our local
to grow in popularity as it is a much more
rivers provide excellent fisheries for both walk-
active pastime than conventional fishing. Fly
wading and float trips for beginning to advanced
fishing uses a different rod and reel, an artificial
anglers,” shares McKenna.
lightweight lure (known as a fly) and a weighted fly line.
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Springtime snowmelt allows rivers and
Other great bodies of water to consider fly fishing this spring that don’t face the challenge
