Fishing in Colorado

After a hot, dry spring and early summer, monsoonal flows during the past week brought consecutive days of rain to most of Colorado. While the rainfall generally has been a benefit to a parched region, it also has affected fishing in some parts of the state. The effects have been mild in some areas, serious in others.

While many free-flowing rivers and creeks saw rising water levels, discoloration and lowered water temperatures, which affect fishing prospects, the impact on most is temporary. Many began clearing and dropping soon afterward, and most should again be in good condition by the weekend.

Heavy rain and flooding along the Arkansas River below Canon City and some of its tributaries sent a surge of water into Pueblo Reservoir. The river temporarily raised the lake level, muddied the water, carried in debris, dropped the temperature and dramatically slowed down the fishing.

With a projected return to hot, dry weather, conditions are expected to improve in about a week. Fishing in mountain lakes and reservoirs generally remains good, though some may be somewhat discolored by rain-swollen inlet flows.

For the complete, statewide fishing report, visit http://wildlife.state.co.us/Fishing/Reports/StatewideConditions/.