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Summit County Fishing Report

Dave Coulson
special to the daily

Editor’s note: Dave Coulson is the Colorado state editor for FishExplorer.com. He contributes a weekly fishing report to the Summit Daily News. For more local and regional fishing info, visit http://www.fishexplorer.com.

Fishing conditions often change as quickly as the weather, something every angler needs to keep in mind. Area rivers are generally clear, low and fishing well. The best action is often early morning with midges and mayflies or evenings when caddis patterns are effective. On lower sections of the Eagle and Colorado rivers water temperatures can exceed 70, and at such times should not be fished as it puts too much stress on the fish.

Be alert to thunderstorms which can quickly raise water levels and muddy waters. Fish can still be caught if you switch over to big streamers or spinning gear with spinners or jigs.



The Blue River continues to fish well both above and below Dillon Reservoir. However, fishing pressure is high, meaning fine tippets, good presentations and small midge patterns are the key.

Elevenmile Reservoir is some of the best fishing in South Park right now. Folks trolling hardware, such as Kastmasters, spoons or shallow running crankbaits, think Rapalas, are doing well. Work near shore for best results. Color seems to be important, so consider starting with gold/orange combinations or lures with a splash of pink.



Jefferson Lake is a good choice for smaller rainbows and the scenic beauty of the higher mountains. Lake trout can be caught, but it takes jigging down to 50 feet or deeper. Keep in mind this one is hand-launched boats only.

A couple of other waters within a reasonable drive to consider for fast action right now are Sylvan Reservoir to the north of Eagle, and in the other direction Willow Creek Reservoir near Granby are both producing good numbers of stockers.

Last, if you don’t have time to travel, now is a good time to explore the small streams in the Gore wilderness area. Most have good numbers of willing brook trout if you’re willing to walk a couple miles.


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