Colorado Alpine Lakes Fly Fishing Report - August 2024
JAMES PEAK: Great options close to denver. As we move into august, look for higher elevation lakes to produce the better fishing , as lower lakes produce too much natural food to compete with, and fish move deeper due to temperature.
INDIAN PEAKS: Essentially the same as James Peak. Look for higher lakes with recent stocking records. Look for longer hikes to more remote lakes to get away from other anglers.
HOLY CROSS: This wilderness area has a lot of higher lakes, making it a favorite area for late season alpine. Chironomids and scuds are standard fare here! Small terrestrials are also very productive.
SOUTHERN COLORADO: Most of these lakes are lower in elevation, and don't fish well later in the year. The best bets are lakes above 10k feet in elevation. Anything low in elevation is likely to be choked with vegetation and likely to hold lethargic fish. These fish eat a lot of scuds and leeches at lower elevations, and chironomids and midges at the higher elevation lakes.
Current Conditions
Fishing in Colorado's alpine lakes is in full swing, offering excellent opportunities for anglers looking to escape the heat and crowds of lower elevations. These high-altitude lakes, typically above 10,000 feet, are in their prime season from July through September.
Weather and Access
The weather can be unpredictable at high altitudes. Early morning starts are recommended to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which can bring lightning and rapid temperature drops. It's common for temperatures to fall below freezing during storms, even in mid-summer. Always check the forecast and be prepared for changing conditions.
Fish Activity
- Species: The most common fish in these lakes are cutthroat trout and brook trout, with occasional sightings of rainbow and lake trout.
- Behavior: Fish are most active early in the morning and late in the evening. During the middle of the day, they tend to stay deeper due to warmer surface temperatures.
- Spawning Patterns: Fish are often in spawning patterns immediately after ice-out, making them somewhat finicky. However, as the season progresses, they become more aggressive and willing to strike.
Recommended Flies and Techniques
- Dry Flies: Small elk hair caddis, ants, and Griffith gnats are effective on the surface.
- Nymphs: Scuds, chironomids, and leeches are standard producing patterns
- Streamers: Sparkle Minnows and other baitfish imitations can be very effective, especially in deeper lakes. More often, small buggers and damselfly streamers are great.
- Tackle: A 9' 5 Weight rod is great for closer proximity fishing. A 10' 6 Weight is great for longer distance indicator rigs and fishing in the wind and waves.
Tips for Success
- Early Starts: Aim to reach the lake before sunrise and plan to leave by early afternoon to avoid storms.
- Hiking Preparedness: Bring plenty of water, high-energy snacks, a first aid kit, and layers of clothing to adjust to temperature changes.
- Research: Verify that the lake you're heading to holds fish. Some shallow lakes may experience winterkill, where the fish do not survive the winter freeze.