Announcing the all-new Native Series: Rio Grande Cutthroat Reel! We have partnered with Ross Reels on this third limited edition Native Series reel to benefit Trout Unlimited's work on the Rio San Antonio Improvement Project to restore native Rio Grande Cutthroat Trout. Each special edition Ross Colorado 4/5 reel includes a number of 1 to 495, as well as "Rio Grande" on the reel foot. Each purchase of this reel contributes $75 to Colorado Trout Unlimited and our efforts to conserve, protect, and restore native Rio Grande Cutthroat Trout.

about the rio san antonio improvement project

• In 2021, Trout Unlimited identified a previously unknown population of Rio Grande cutthroat trout in the Rio San Antonio. These trout have survived against all odds.

• 2023 saw the implementation of phase one of the Lagunitas Rio San Antonio Watershed Improvement Project.

• The first phase saw efforts focused on the implementation of riparian and river restoration on 1.5 miles of the Rio San Antonio and Lagunitas Creek.

• These initial treatments will reduce channel incision, increase floodplain access and deposition, expand flood-prone areas across the valley bottom to promote wetland vegetation, and increase pool depth and frequency.

• Conservation efforts will continue into 2024 with plans to plant additional willows and riparian vegetation, along with wider efforts over the next ten years including: population surveys, genetic analyses, and fish stocking efforts; habitat improvement and flow manipulation; and policy development for the long-term protection of the species.