...keeping track of each and every trout they catch or release. Then, eventually most of us end up looking for a more quality experience, understanding that it isn't the number of fish caught but the degree of difficulty in catching them. Some say the definition of a trophy-sized trout depends on the water it lives and the techniques used to catch it.
Many lakes and streams on the Grand Mesa are easily accessible via paved and dirt Forest Service roads. Some, however, require hiking to get to and walking between the lakes in the tall pines is wonderful. If you're lucky you might come across a less-traveled to reservoir in the back country that could produce a nice 3 or 4 pound trout. Locals claim that dry flies are extremely effective on the mesa, as well as black wooly buggers.
We might also mention that fishing in Colorado is no longer just a summer sport, it’s a year round activity. According to the Colorado Division of Wildlife, more than 25 percent of all Colorado anglers spend some time on the ice each year. Dropping a lure or bait through the first safe ice of the year can be very productive since it might be the first bit of food the fish have seen since the ice closed them in. Small jigs, spoons or plastic baits work well, as do the typical natural baits such as earthworms, mealworms and larvae. Keep that bait warm and lively and most Grand Mesa Lakes will yield you some nice rainbow trout.
From downtown Cedaredge, you can be on the water (or ice) and fishing in exactly an hour and remember… A fish is too valuable to be caught and enjoyed only once. We encourage responsible fishing practices.
Annual licenses are valid April 1 through March 31 annually for fishing in Colorado. These can be purchased at license agents, CPW offices, online at: co.wildlifelicense.com or by phone at 1-800-244-5613.
Many lakes and streams on the Grand Mesa are easily accessible via paved and dirt Forest Service roads. Some, however, require hiking to get to and walking between the lakes in the tall pines is wonderful. If you're lucky you might come across a less-traveled to reservoir in the back country that could produce a nice 3 or 4 pound trout. Locals claim that dry flies are extremely effective on the mesa, as well as black wooly buggers.
We might also mention that fishing in Colorado is no longer just a summer sport, it’s a year round activity. According to the Colorado Division of Wildlife, more than 25 percent of all Colorado anglers spend some time on the ice each year. Dropping a lure or bait through the first safe ice of the year can be very productive since it might be the first bit of food the fish have seen since the ice closed them in. Small jigs, spoons or plastic baits work well, as do the typical natural baits such as earthworms, mealworms and larvae. Keep that bait warm and lively and most Grand Mesa Lakes will yield you some nice rainbow trout.
From downtown Cedaredge, you can be on the water (or ice) and fishing in exactly an hour and remember… A fish is too valuable to be caught and enjoyed only once. We encourage responsible fishing practices.
Annual licenses are valid April 1 through March 31 annually for fishing in Colorado. These can be purchased at license agents, CPW offices, online at: co.wildlifelicense.com or by phone at 1-800-244-5613.