Dale Stevens with a healthy Spinney Res. rainbow. Photo Mike Miller.
colorado stillwaters Though most people think of fine river and stream fishing when they think of Colorado, there are several lakes in the state that can rival Montana's Hebgen Lake. With a short fishing season, and a low number of crowds on these lakes, they can be the perfect choice to get into some quality fish while in Colorado's high country.
Spinney Mountain Reservoir
Spinney Mountain Reservoir is located within a Colorado State Park, but the water is actually owned by the City of Aurora. This is a 2520 acre lake that contains rainbow, brown, and Snake River cutthroats which grow not only at an astonishing rate, but also to astonishing sizes.Those who enjoy searching for pike can find a small population that resides in the reservoir, if you enjoy fishing for these monsters Elevenmile Reservoir just down the road, is a much better pike fishery.
Fishing at Spinney Mountain Reservoir is by artificial fly and lure only and only one fish over 20" may be kept, though most who fish by fly in this spectacular mountain fishery, choose to practice catch and release. Spinney Mountain Reservoir generally opens in mid spring as ice off begins, and closes again in late fall as the reservoir freezes back over.There is no ice fishing allowed at Spinney Mountain Reservoir. This reservoir contains some of the largest stillwater trout one can catch in the state of Colorado, this is due to the high amount of aquatic life that resides in Spinney.With large hatches of callibaetis, damsels, and large amounts of scuds these fish tend to look like footballs. The best way to fish Spinney is by boat, but pay attention to the weather while on the lake, sometimes the wind will start up blowing gales, and before you know it you are on the other side of the lake.
Due to the introduction of Zebra Mussels several Colorado stillwaters, all watercraft will be inspected prior to entry of the State Park. This is to help stop the spread of this parasite. This includes float tubes and pontoon boats, so please clean your craft before getting to the water.
Current recommended flies: streamer egg combos have been producing well as of late. Antero Reservoir
Antero is now known for it's ability to grow amazingly large and strong trout. Located in South Park near Spinney Reservoir, this once dry lake now boasts some of the best fishing for large trout in the area. Lately fishing has been outstanding on this shallow body of water, work out from shore until you find the lanes then park it and hold on.
Current recommended flies: streamer/egg combos are the ticket right now.
