Keep Fish Cool

The Colorado Water Quality Control Commission (WQCC) is considering a state policy change that would increase the "standard" temperature for trout streams throughout the state. Proposed changes brought forth by the Water Quality Control Division (WQCD) would put many trout fisheries at risk including spawning periods. In order for trout to function properly, they need the water temperature to be between the ranges of 40-65 degrees. Some species- primarily the ones found in higher elevations like the cutthroat trout- are more sensitive to temperature changes and have a chronic limit of 60 degrees. When the water temperature falls within the trouts preferred range, the trout can no longer feed, grow or move properly.

As the water becomes warmer, there becomes less dissolved oxygen available. Conversely, when the water cools, more oxygen is available and the fish can feed and move comfortably. Trout species require 4-5 times more dissolved oxygen when the water temperature is out of their preferred range than when the water is close to 40 degrees.

The changes proposed by the WQCD will increase the "standard" temperature in trout streams, causing their stress levels to increase and ultimately cause issues in their feeding, growing and movement.

These potential changes would allow higher elevation streams to reach 63 degrees- 3 degrees over the chronic limit for sensitive coldwater species. For middle elevation streams (the most common streams), the limit will be raised to 65 degrees, just about the chronic limit for most trout species in Colorado.

The potentially higher temperature standards would be allowed during the months of April to November- during the months of Rainbow and Brown spawning seasons when the fish are more sensitive and susceptible to changes in their environment. For more information regarding these changes, check out the report: Fish in Hot Water? by Mindi May and Ashley Rust.

Changes being proposed are potential, but the fish need our help. Trout Unlimited is conducting a Citizen Science for anglers throughout the state to record stream temperature, species, presence of redds (if possible) and photos to present to the WQCD. To conduct the Citizen Science form, visit the Google Doc created by Ashley Rust or submit findings to AshleyRust@gmail.com

The hearing will be on June 13 at 9:30 at the Department of Public Health. Along with our Citizen Science data, we want Trout Unlimited members, supporters and anglers to be there showing their support for our trout and the cold water they call home.

Windy Gap Permit Locks in River Protections

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment released its final 401 water quality certification for the proposed Windy Gap Firming Project (WGFP). The 401 permit affirms the health of the Upper Colorado River and it's world-class trout fishery. The WGFP would divert additional water from the Upper Colorado River to the northern Front Range. Currently, Front Range diversion projects have removed about 60 percent of the native flows of the Colorado River headwaters. The proposed Windy Gap expansion would reduce the native flows even further.

But through the collaborative effort of Trout Unlimited, Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District (subdistrict), Grand County, and the Upper Colorado River Alliance, the 401 permit for WGFP will address stream temperature impacts during summer low flows, provide periodic flushing flows, and require ongoing monitoring and response if degraded conditions are discovered.

“This long-term monitoring and flexibility of response is called ‘adaptive management’—and it’s a critical feature of the permit requirements,” said Mely Whiting, counsel for Trout Unlimited. “Adaptive management recognizes that stakeholders can’t foresee every problem, and it provides a process for ongoing monitoring and mitigation of river problems as they arise.”

“We wouldn’t be at this point without the leadership of Grand County and their persistent efforts to improve the health of the Colorado River,” said Kirk Klancke, president of TU’s Colorado River Headwaters chapter. “And the Northern subdistrict also deserves credit for listening to our concerns and working with all stakeholders to find solutions.”

As the flows of the river are diverted and reduced, the water temperature could rise to a level threatening to trout and aquatic life- but with the 401 permit, these conditions will be monitored to ensure the fishery remains Gold. Also with lower flowers, the sediment and algae buildup cements between the cobblestone, preventing invertebrates to hatch and trout to spawn. By providing these flushing flows the sediment will be washed away and leave the cobblestone clear for aquatic habitat to survive.

If the water quality and the fishery is in danger from these changes, the subdistrict will have to investigate to determine if WGFP is contributing or causing the impairment. If it is deemed that WGFP is causing the problem, the subdistrict is required to develop a plan to solve the problem.

Under Section 401 of the federal Clean Water Act, the state of Colorado must provide the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers with a permit certifying that the project will comply with federal water quality standards. The last part of the Windy Gap puzzle is the 404 wetlands permit by the Army Corps of Engineers, which could be issue in 2016.

Once all the permits are issues, resources will be released- including money needed for the Windy Gap Reservoir Bypass to create a new river channel and reconnect the river and its fisheries upstream and downstream of the reservoir.

Blue River stretch loses Gold Medal status

The 19 mile Blue River stretch between Silverthorne to Green Mountain Reservoir has been degraded of it's Gold Medal status by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The river still has 15 miles of it's Gold status from the Dillon Dam to Hamilton Creek Road bridge crossing and also from Green Mountain Dam to the waterway's confluence with the Colorado River. The decision comes after CPW has been monitoring unnatural stream flows, sparse aquatic habitat, and low nutrient content all contributed to the decline of the water. CPW said that stretch of the river hasn’t met the Gold Medal standard for about 15 years.

"The overall goal is to maintain the integrity of the Gold Medal designation," Jon Ewert, a CPW aquatic biologist, said in a statement. "As necessary, we will make recommendations to delist or upgrade waters, keeping in mind the intent of the designation — identifying waters where anglers can catch large, trophy-quality trout."

CPW will be working with the Town of Silverthorne, Denver Water and local anglers to get the stretch to the point where it can be relisted.

In order to be a Gold Medal fishery, the area must be able to produce a minimum of 12 “quality trout” (14+ inches) per acre. It also must be able to produce 60 pounds of standing stock (the amount of living organisms in the ecosystem- including fish, plant life and micro invertebrates) per acre, and can only be designated Gold Medal if the water is accessible to the public.

While 24 miles of Gold Medal water was lost on the Blue, CPW added 24 miles of Gold Medal Waters to the Colorado River, from Canyon Creek, at the mouth of Gore Canyon, to the confluence of Rock Creek, near the town of McCoy.

“We studied this section of the Colorado River extensively over the past eight years,” Ewert said. “We found that it is an excellent fishery.”

Colorado is home to over 300 miles of Gold Medal fisheries including 11 different rivers and 3 lakes.

Defending Colorado's Water Quality

A trout’s most fundamental need is cold, clean water. Protecting that resource is a key part of Colorado Trout Unlimited’s mission and it has led us to engage in rulemaking efforts before the Water Quality Control Commission. This June, the Commission will be revising its “basic standards” for statewide water quality protection. One of the key standards for protecting trout is water temperature. Unfortunately, the staff of the Water Quality Control Division (WQCD) has proposed changes in the temperature standards that could put many fisheries at risk. They are looking to weaken temperature standards both in terms of transition periods between summer and winter, and based on elevation as a transition from high to lower quality trout waters. The seasonal shift could leave streams with no meaningful temperature standards during four months of the year which happen to be trout spawning and egg incubation periods - the most sensitive life stages. While the elevation-based approach could weaken standards for rivers at elevations seen on great trout rivers like the Colorado at State Bridge, the South Platte at Deckers, and the Poudre Canyon.

In partnership with other conservation groups, Trout Unlimited has brought on water quality expert Ashley Rust as a consultant to provide technical support. Her work has already demonstrated flaws in the data selection and analysis used for the WQCD’s proposal. We are working closely with scientists at Colorado Parks and Wildlife as well, who share TU’s concerns.

The concept of addressing transitional points both seasonally and on streams moving from colder to warmer natural conditions make sense – but whereas Colorado’s original temperature standards were the product of a multi-year collaborative process and rigorous data analysis, this proposal has been rushed by the WQCD at the 11th hour, and that has led to a proposal that is not based on strong science and which will not protect trout. TU will continue to fight this effort throughout the hearing process.

College programs growing in the west

Leaders for tomorrow are stepping up in big ways and want to contribute to our rivers conservation. TU is helping support and organize over 62 college clubs throughout the lower continental US.  These clubs are a testament of TU’s continued effort to support and engage a wider audience with a legitimate interest in learning more about conservation efforts. In the western region, there are a total of 14 clubs- 10 of which are located in Colorado. These college clubs all have a faculty advisor, student members, and a chapter liaison. Referred to as the TU Costa 5 Rivers Clubs, these groups must integrate events that work with 5 different pillars- conservation, fundraising, community outreach, be an ambassador for Costa del Mar, and have a TU connection.

Along with helping spread the TU mission on campus, clubs are encouraged to participate with their local chapter and TU board to coordinate outings, guest speakers, and other events.

The 10 schools participating in the program are: Adams State University, Colorado College, Colorado State, Colorado Mesa College, Colorado Mountain College-Steamboat, Fort Lewis, Metro State University, Western State University, University of Colorado-Boulder, University of Denver.

University of Utah, Utah State, University of Wyoming, and Western Washington University are the other four schools rounding out the west.

Thanks to the student leadership, these programs all are growing in size each year. For instance, CU Boulder had 20 people last school year and has now more than doubled in size with 50 students in the current year.

CU Boulder has organized at least three full weekends of weekend trips, a river cleanup, and had over 30 participants helping teach fly fishing classes to students who may have been otherwise intimidated to try and join the sport. The CU Fly Fishing Club also helped with the local TU Chapter, the Boulder Flycasters, youth night.

All the clubs are doing their part, whether it's a stream cleanup or Youtube videos made by the students at Colorado College to help spread the word about conservation and fly fishing, these individual clubs are expanding.

But it doesn't stop there.

There are also plans to expand the entire TU Costa 5 Rivers program in the west to include more than the 14 current schools. According to Andrew Loffredo, TU Costa 5 Rivers Coordinator, they are searching various universities for faculty or students that would be interested as well as relying on chapters to help expand the program.

As an annual incentive and celebration of the great work these clubs are doing, in early April 2016, western clubs will all meet along the Frying Pan River in Colorado for the 3^rd annual TU Costa 5 Rivers Rendezvous. With help from the primary sponsor, Costa del Mar, these students will come together to socialize, share ideas, compete in a photo fishing scavenger hunt, and participate in an “Iron Fly” competition.

With help from CTU, Costa, chapters and local campuses, the 5 Rivers program is headed in the right direction and a new breed of young conversationalists are being molded.

Safe Wading Techniques

As spring runoff rises and the flow of water increases, wading across a river becomes more dangerous. Along with raging flow rates, the ice cold water could lead to hypothermia in the event of a fall. Taking the proper precautions could not only make your day on the river enjoyable, but they could save your life.

Equipment

Borrowing the mantra from the Boy Scouts, "Be Prepared." When heading to the river, make sure you have all of your equipment- including waders, proper wading boots, a wading belt and in some cases a wading staff. All of these items will help you stay dry and above the water.

Your waders should be free of rips or tears and the seams should be tightly sealed together. Any amount of water that penetrate the waders can weigh down each step and anchor in place, requiring more effort to move across safely. Using a wading belt can also help keep the waders free from water. These belts are designed to tightly cinch the waders around your waist and keep water out but air in.

Using the proper wading boots can help keep you upright through the higher flow rates. When wading faster, deeper waters using metal studded boots is a good option as they provide extra grip in slippery situations. These type of boots are also good for hiking around, however the metal studs can be slippery on dry rock.

If the water becomes too fast, using a wading staff is the best way to stay vertical in the rapids. Using the stick offers a third support- a vital piece to staying safe on the water. When taking a stride without a staff, the points of contact with the bottom is reduced to one. When using a wading staff, there are always two points. This piece of equipment can also lower stress and anxiety levels related to crossing high levels of water.

 Methods

When wading across a potentially dangerous river the best advice for anglers is to go slow. According to an article by Orivs, "This has broader implications than you may think. It obviously includes being careful while wading, but also encompasses taking time to evaluate current conditions and particularly to evaluate conditions when you are visiting unfamiliar rivers or locations." Taking your time to enter a river at a safe crossing can allow you take it slow and with experience, slow is smooth and smooth is fast.

The best place to cross a river is at the tail of a pool or the head of a wide riffle where the water is usually the most shallow.

While taking it slow across the river, make sure not to head directly across. It's best to wade at a slight upstream angle. This allows constant pressure back onto the water's flow, allowing you to lean into each step. If wading across downstream, the pressure of the water adds to your downstream momentum and could easily push you over into the current or a deep hole.

Wading upstream also ensures that if something happens and you need to turn around, you are able to do so safely. When turning around in strong currents, it's advised to turn upstream, keeping the force back on the river. Just like wading across, turning downstream will allow the current to hit the back of your legs and potentially make them buckle- resulting in a fall.

Just like low flow wading, it's best to keep the movement of the legs at a shuffle step or sidestep. This ensures that the weight and balance are always on the stationary foot planted firmly in the riverbed. Stepping normal can cause your balance to shift, making it easier for the river to knock you over.

Staying Safe

In the event of a fall, make sure that you keep your feet ahead downstream and use the whitewater seated position. If there are submerged boulders or trees, your feet will hit and you can use them to push off. Stay with your feet out until it is safe to stand up or you can safely grab onto something to stabilize yourself.

If the water is cold, make sure to get out of the wet clothes as soon as possible in order for your body temperature to warm up. Staying in the wet, cold clothes will lead to an increased chance of hypothermia.

Remember that fly fishing should be fun, not a survival adventure. if you're not comfortable with the situation, don't push it. There will be another day and if it doesn't look safe enough to cross there is no need to test the waters... literally.

Colorado TU honors Denver Water with River Stewardship Award

At it's annual River Stewardship Gala last night, Colorado Trout Unlimited honored Denver Water with the 2016 River Stewardship Award for their work in urban conservation and collaborative efforts in water stewardship. 25 years after the Two Forks Dam battle- a plan that would've constructed a 615' tall dam along the South Platte, Denver Water has now engaged their former adversaries as partners in an effort to conserve our state's watersheds.

“That’s a remarkable and encouraging sign of progress in protecting the rivers that help sustain Colorado’s wildlife, communities and recreation economy," said David Nickum, Colorado TU Executive Director. "In the years since the Two Forks veto, Denver Water has truly changed its culture.... Colorado TU is pleased to recognize Denver Water for its leadership in promoting partnerships that not only supply water to Denver citizens, but also promote stewardship of Colorado’s rivers as well.”

“Part of what makes Colorado an amazing state are our great cities, variety of recreational opportunities and beautiful natural environment. Denver Water is committed to continuing to collaboratively work together with partners from all sectors to keep our rivers healthy,” said Jim Lochhead, Denver Water CEO/manager. “We’re honored to receive the 2016 River Stewardship Award from Trout Unlimited and look forward to continuing our work with them in the future.”

As part of working with conservation organizations like TU, Denver Water has incorporated "Learning by Doing," a monitoring and adaptive management program to maintain and restore or enhance the aquatic environment. Under the LBD project, Denver Water has agreed to be flexible in delivering flows of water as well as invest in habitat and water quality restoration and conservation efforts.

The Learning by Doing initiative also incorporates the South Platte Protection Plan- an alternative to designating parts of the South Platte as a Wild and Scenic River after the Two Forks Dam veto. The South Platte Plan promoted collaboration among water suppliers, local governments, recreationists and conservationists. These groups worked together on managing flows, support investment in river-related values, and partnerships for water quality and watershed health. The Plan also inspired the creation of the Coalition for the Upper South Platte- a group that has helped direct millions of dollars into watershed restoration efforts.

Denver Water currently provides water supply to about 25 percent of Colorado's population with less than 2 percent of all the water used in the state. They have worked with customers to reduce water use by more than 20 percent over the past 10 years, despite a 10 percent increase in population.

Rendezvous Registration is Filling Up!

Register now to save your seat for the premier event for protecting Colorado's rivers and fish!! With an impressive line up of guest speakers and a full weekend planned for women, there is something for everyone at Colorado Trout Unlimited's Annual Rendezvous. This year we will be holding most of the weekend at the historic Hotel Colorado.

The theme for Rendezvous 2016 is Sportsmen; The Original Conservationist and for the first time we will be holding this event at the historic Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs. To most sportsmen and women the sport of fishing or hunting is so much more than the hunt. It is the connection to the wild places that protect the game and the rivers that allow the fish to swim that makes the person coming back time after time. As sportsmen we have an obligation to protect these wild places and be stewards to the environment that surrounds us. This year at Rendezvous we will explore what it means to bring out the conservationist in all of us and learn how each individual can do their part in passing on our beautiful state to future generations.

Click the link below to see the agenda, the schedule for Women's Weekend, and to register.

https://org2.salsalabs.com/o/7023/p/salsa/event/common/public/?event_KEY=80676

For questions please contact Stephanie Scott at sscott@tu.org or 720-354-2647

Gala Live Items

If you cannot make it to our annual River Stewardship Gala, you can still bid on any of our live auction items! Please email, JFlorence@tu.org with the item you wish to bid on and how much you wish to bid!

Live Auction Items:

(1)  Fishing with Pat Dorsey.  Enjoy a full day of guided walk/wade fishing for two with one of Colorado’s most respected guides, Pat Dorsey of Blue Quill Angler.  Not only will you experience a great day on the water, but you’ll leave the day having learned ways to improve your angling experiences from one of Colorado’s top guides.  You’ll fish Pat’s “home waters” in Cheesman Canyon, or other waters served by Blue Quill based on conditions at the time of your trip. Valid for 2016, subject to availability. Item value: $450. Minimum bid: $250.

(2)  Explore the Flattops and White River.   You’ll enjoy a three night, two day experience with Ripple Creek Lodge nestled near the spectacular Flat Tops Wilderness and the headwaters of the White River.  Your package includes a three night stay for two guests in one of Ripple Creek’s cabins, all meals during your stay, plus two days of guided fishing: one day will be walk/wade fishing on the White River, and one day you’ll enjoy fishing with a guided horseback trail ride to a remote lake in the Flat Tops Wilderness Area.  Valid for 2016, subject to availability.  Item value: $1,300. Minimum bid: $750.

(3) Roaring Fork Valley Getaway.  This package – perfect for a weekend mini-vacation – includes two nights in a beautiful one bedroom cabin along the Fryingpan River with Dallenbach Ranch (valid through May 2017, subject to availability, upgrade to a two bedroom cabin may be available for additional charge); plus a certificate covering green fees and cart for four people at the beautiful Ironbridge Golf Course in Glenwood Springs (for 2016, subject to availability); plus a half-day guided float trip for two anglers with Roaring Fork Anglers/Alpine Angling valid for 2016, subject to availability. Item value: $1,200. Minimum bid: 500

(4) Gold Medal fishing in the Gunnison Gorge.  A three day float trip for two anglers to fish in Colorado's Gunnison Gorge, for use in May or September 2016, subject to availability.  Fish a Gold Medal fishery in the midst of a true wilderness setting, the river accessible only by foot and horseback.  You’ll start with a moderately strenuous hike into the Gorge, and then enjoy the next three days floating through a spectacular, unspoiled wilderness canyon fishing for large, feisty trout.  The package also includes meals from lunch on day one through lunch on day three, group camping equipment and cot (you provide your own sleeping bag & fishing gear), transportation to and from the river, and of course, guided fishing on one of Colorado’s signature float trips. Item value: $5,000. Minimum bid: $3,000

(5) Fish the New Fork with Jack Dennis!  Legendary outfitter and angler Jack Dennis considers Wyoming’s New Fork his favorite river, but it is challenging water – as he puts it, where anglers go to earn their “PhD”.  Jack will take you for two full-day floats in his Hyde drift boat specially designed for rivers like the New Fork – a small intimate river full of brush piles, deep cut banks, cover everywhere and some of the most beautiful pools in the world.  Jack has fished this river for over 56 years and every pool has a name and a story.  Challenging, unpredictable, moody, mystic, almost human – the New Fork can humble an angler but with precise short casts, good drifts, patience and luck the rewards can be large and memorable.  “Each day on this river is different; every season shows you something new and exciting,” he explains.  “New discovery and challenges have kept me fishing the New Fork all my life.”  This package for two anglers also includes two nights’ accommodations at Jack’s condo in Pinedale, WY.  Fish stories and BS optional.  Valid for 2016, subject to availability.  The “season” on the New Fork runs from early July through the end of September.  Item value: $1,300. Minimum bid: $750

(6) Hermosa Creek package. This package celebrates Hermosa Creek outside of Durango, the heart of the Watershed Protection Area recently protected by Congress under bipartisan legislation.  From native cutthroat habitat in its headwaters near Purgatory Ski Area, to its confluence with the Animas River, Hermosa Creek is an outstanding wild trout fishery.  You’ll enjoy a full day of hosted fishing on the river with TU’s Ty Churchwell including lunch and transportation to the river; plus one night’s accommodations at the Rochester Hotel/Leland House B&B in Durango (valid for 2016 subject to availability); plus a framed art-quality print of Hermosa Creek.  Item value: $950. Minimum bid: 400

(7) Rio Grande fishing getaway.  Spend two nights in a furnished condo in South Fork Colorado on the banks of the Rio Grande River.  The unit sleeps four people.  Package also includes a full-day, guided fishing trip for two on the Rio Grande courtesy of Wolf Creek Anglers in South Fork.  Access to private waters are available at an additional cost, and additional nights lodging can be added for an extra fee.  Valid for 2016, with blackout dates from June 20 to July 20; subject to availability. Item value: $1,905. Minimum bid: $700

(8) Suite experience at Coors Field.  Enjoy a 2016 Colorado Rockies game with friends in a deluxe suite at Coors Field!  Includes tickets for twelve, plus food and beer.  The winning bidder can choose from a large menu of available games, as well as an option to purchase up to seven additional standing room only tickets.  Some blackout dates may apply; schedule as soon as possible to secure your desired game. Item Value: $2,000. Minimum bid: $700

(9) Fish & stay in luxury at Madison Valley Ranch.    Situated on the banks of the Madison River just 3 miles north of Ennis, Madison Valley Ranch offers anglers unparalleled access to all the best blue-ribbon fly fishing in southwestern Montana. A short walk out the back door will find you casting to rising fish in the famous “Channels” section of the Madison, fighting large, feisty trout on a private two acre pond, or stalking Jack Creek as it runs through the property.  You’ll also enjoy outstanding accommodations and meals – the package includes two nights accommodations (double occupancy), all meals:  buffet breakfast, streamside lunch, appetizers & a 4 course casual gourmet dinner, plus two days of guided fishing.  First, a one-day float trip for two with professional guides on the Madison River through Madison Valley Ranch. Second, you’ll enjoy a guided float for two on your choice of the area’s finest trout streams with “The Trout Whisperer” Dave Kumlien – 38 year fly fishing outfitter for Montana Troutfitters and 2001 Outdoor Life Conservationist of the Year.  Combine great fishing with a beautiful lodge & accommodations, professional guide service, exquisite dining, warm atmosphere, and awesome scenery and wildlife, and you truly are “just a cast away” from your finest fishing experience ever.  Valid for 2016 season, subject to availability.  Item value: $3,000. Minimum bid: $1,200

(10) Alan Kube bamboo rod, 7-foot 3-weight.  This rod was custom-built by Denver-area master rod builder Alan Kube.  Kube explains the revival of interest in cane rods: “Part of it's still a sense of tradition, of getting back to modern fly-fishing's roots and the work of the old masters,” Kube says.  Combine this with the feel of fishing bamboo: “You cast graphite rods by the clock in your head,” Kube explains. “You cast bamboo by the feel in your hand.”  Item value: $1,800. Minimum bid: $1,260.

(11) Flyfishing adventure in New Zealand with Distant Waters.  New Zealand is famed for its beauty and the quality of flyfishing you can enjoy there – and nobody helps you experience it better than Kevin Wigfield, owner of Distant Waters Angling Adventures in New Zealand, who has been organizing all-inclusive New Zealand packages for 15 years.  With this package for two, you’ll enjoy five days of guided fly fishing – one of which is a helicopter trip into remote New Zealand backcountry – with seven nights accommodations, breakfast and lunch provided daily, and roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles to New Zealand.  (Travel to Los Angeles, dinner, license and fishing gear are not included).  This package can be used for the upcoming summer season – October 2016 through April 2017.  Distant Waters can also help you with add-on activities, dates, and lodging if you wish to extend your trip.  Subject to availability.  Item value: $11,000. Minimum bid: $6,500

(12) Fall Fishing at Blue Valley Ranch.  Enjoy a day of fishing with your host, Kirk Klancke, on some of Colorado’s most exclusive private water at Blue Valley Ranch – aka “Jurassic Park”, home to some of the biggest lunker trout you’ll find.  The Blue River supports a Gold Medal fishery, and the Blue Valley Ranch downstream from Green Mountain Reservoir supports some of the best trophy fish in Colorado.  Trip is subject to availability for 2016, with autumn dates most likely to be open.  Item value: 600. Minimum bid: $300

(13) Labrador Brook Trout Adventure.  A one-week fishing getaway to Labrador, Canada for two anglers.  In Labrador, you’ll find a true wilderness that forms a perfect backdrop for the angling adventures of your imagination.  The boreal forest, tundra and seemingly endless waters are pure and unsullied.  The fisheries hold treasures – fish that have disappeared from all but the most native and pristine environments. You’ll have the chance to catch trophy brook trout in the remarkable Woods River wilderness. The package includes six fishing days and seven nights at Three Rivers Lodge’s main camp fishing the Eagle River, Rick’s Run and Victoria River upstream and the main Woods River downstream.  Also includes two fly-outs on the river system for each angler.  Accommodations in main camp are private guest cabins (double occupancy, with full private bathroom), and all meals are included.  Valid for 2016 season, subject to availability. Item value: $11,900. Minimum bid: $7,000

(14) 29^th Annual Classical Music River Journey. Merging the arts with a whitewater rafting adventure, Bill Dvorak - Colorado's first licensed outfitter and a fifth-generation cousin of the famed composer Antonin Dvorak - takes river enthusiasts with an "ear for music" on a once-in-a-lifetime Classical Music Journey down the Green River's (Utah) spectacular Desolation and Gray canyons. The winning bidder will enjoy an eight-day float (July 23-30) along with a professional string quartet, from selected Philharmonics as they embrace the deep canyon acoustics in these majestic canyons, grottos and natural amphitheaters playing the works of Bach, Beethoven, Dvorak and many more. During the course of the float, guests will be able to listen to concerts performed on vast beaches and in the mile-deep canyons and open amphitheaters once traveled by ancient peoples. The trip is a perfect chance to take in Utah's spectacular wilderness river canyon scenery, read, relax, view wildlife, and listen to impromptu musical performances. The package includes rafting equipment, camping gear set up per person, select wines, kayak or stand up paddling options, and gourmet meals provided each day. Additional costs; shuttle airfare from Grand Junction, CO to the launch and van shuttle back from the takeout and guide gratuities. "The trip is pampered, if not the most memorable sophisticated adventure you ever take," said Dvorak.  Item value: $2,410. Minimum bid: $1,200

(15) Yellowstone Cache Creek horsepack fishing adventure.  Experience a once-in-a-lifetime wilderness adventure in America’s first national park, spectacular Yellowstone National Park. This trip for two takes place July 12-16, 2016.  Cache Creek, a tributary of the Lamar River, holds a great supply of cutthroat trout and is an ideal backcountry spot for several days of fishing and exploring.  On the first day you’ll ride 8 miles to the Lower Cache Creek site where you’ll set up camp for the next two nights and spend your days fishing up and down the creek and exploring its pockets and pools filled with vibrant cutthroats. When not fishing you’ll enjoy the park’s natural wonders as you ride alongside The Thunderer and look for buffalo, wolf or bear meandering up and down the trail.  Your third and fourth days will be spent a couple of miles further upstream to enjoy rarely fished waters filled with beautiful pools and runs.  On the final day you’ll fish around camp as the guides pack up, and then head back toward home.  Along with great fishing and remarkable scenery, Sunrise Pack Station also offers experienced guides with great knowledge of the park’s natural and human history – so beyond having assistance with the horses and local fishing knowledge, you’ll also have the chance to learn about Yellowstone from fire ecology, to wolf reintroduction, to the Nez Perce Indians who were native to this area.  Meals and campaign gear are provided; to ensure safety there is a 250 lb. weight limit.  Item value: $4,700. Minimum bid: $2,500

(16) Holland America Line cruise for two – up to seven nights. When you step aboard one of the five-star ships of Holland America Line, you will experience a voyage unlike any other.  You can choose any cruise for two people (sharing the same stateroom) up to seven days in length to Alaska, the Caribbean, Mexico or Canada/New England.  Your journey includes extraordinary dining, spacious staterooms, elegant surroundings and days filled with new discoveries and gracious pampering by an award-winning crew. The winning bidder will receive a certificate valid for minimum ocean view stateroom class, with no expiration date.  Does not include taxes, fuel supplement, onboard charges, shore excursions, airfare to the port of departure, or hotel service charges.  Item value: $2,600. Minimum bid: $1,300

(17) Alaska Kenai River adventure for four.  Up to four anglers will enjoy a full day float trip on the Upper or Middle Kenai River with Tightlines Alaska and owner/guide Collin Papuga, an alumni of CTU’s Youth River Conservation & Fly Fishing Camp.  The package includes guide, rods and reels if needed, flies, and transportation to the launch site. The Upper Kenai River runs 17 miles long and is limited to drift boats as it flows through the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. The fishing pressure is minimal on this stretch of water and anglers fish for rainbows, dolly varden, silver salmon, and sockeye salmon. The Middle Kenai River has more fishing pressure, but is known for monster trout and dolly varden and is your best shot at hooking a 30″ trout! Your trip will be custom tailored to the type of fishing you desire in a comfortable 20 foot Willie drift boat accommodating four guests plus your guide.  Valid for 2016, subject to availability – blackout dates July 1-31.  Item value: $1,000. Minimum bid: $500.

(18) Fall Fishing on the Upper Bighorn with Jack Dennis!  Every year Jack Dennis goes to the private Taylor Homestead Ranch three miles from Thermopolis, WY, on the banks of the Big Horn River.  He hosts his friends to share Wyoming’s most prolific trout river.  Drift fishing to rising fish with small dry flies; challenging hatches of tricos, blue wings, mahoganies and terrestrials occur all day.  The water requires good casting skills with soft, delicate casts to spooky fish including many large tough fish over 20 inches.  With this package for two, you’ll relax in the natural hot springs in front of the ranch house after fishing, and enjoy accommodations in a large roomy house that sleeps eight. You’ll fish for two days with Jack, with the option to extend an additional day or two for a modest fee.  Drift in Jack’s Hyde Montana driftboat through private lands untouched by bank fishermen.  This full package includes fishing on two days and lodging for three nights, as well as lunch both days and flies.  The ranch is leased from October 3-14, 2016 and for three weeks in October 2017; this trip can be used in either year.  Reserve with Jack early to secure your dates. Item value: $1,450. Minimum bid: $1,000

(19) Catch quality trout with Landon Mayer!  Enjoy a full day guided river fishing trip for one or two anglers on choice of Front Range Colorado waters with Landon Mayer, author of books including How to Catch the Biggest Trout of Your Life (2007 Wild River Press), Colorado's Best Fly Fishing (2011 Stackpole-Headwater Books), and 101 Trout Tips: A Guide’s Secrets, Tactics, and Techniques (2015 Stackpole-Headwater Books). Lunch provided. Valid for Summer 2016, based on availability. Item value: $450. Minimum bid: $250.

Flyathlon looks to add more events in 2016

By: Danielle Adams Three simple words.

Run. Fish. Beer.

Each might resonate individually to different folks, but there's a special breed out there who can see the true beauty in pursuing all three in the same day- and in unique circumstances- possibly all at once. 

As a seasoned runner himself, EPA fish biologist, Andrew Todd conceptualized and brought to life what has he considers the best triathlon ever. If a triathlon is defined as an athletic contest consisting of three different events, then the Rocky Mountain Flyathlon fits the bill- well if you count beer drinking as an athletic event.

By way of a course commencing with a scenic run in, followed by trail accessed fly fishing, ending in craft beer indulgence, Todd was able to combine several hobbies into one uniquely exciting event.

The rules remain very uncomplicated, yet yield the best outcomes to those who are the most avid strategists. Complete the prescribed trail run, catch a fish at any point during the run, take a picture of said fish on your race bib, and do it all as quickly as possible. The bigger the fish, the more time is taken off at the end of your run- with a special double bonus for catching a native cutthroat trout.

As a biologist and sportsman, Todd has made the imperative connection between conservation and the art of angling. He notes that restoration and conservation of trout habitat goes hand-in-hand with promoting fly fishing as sport. Through this event he has offered an alternative way for  fishermen and women to access especially rare trout watersheds- including native cutthroat waters.

Last year the Flyathlon sold-out with around 50 athletes who participated. The cap on the number of athletes is no accident. With education at the forefront, the conservation of the small stream fisheries that flyathletes will come in contact with, is kept in mind when assembling the cohort. Due to his background, Todd was able to recognized the potential danger in overwhelming these fish populations. The safety of the trout, habitat, and overall trail maintenance are fundamental to the Flyathlon mission, and overall goal of the event.

According to Todd, "relying on a crowdfunding model with our 501c3 partner Colorado Trout Unlimited, this past year, our flyathletes raised an incredible $22,200.  At least 50% of this money will be re-invested into projects to maintain and enhance the trails, creeks and fisheries within the range of the Rio Grande cutthroat trout, ensuring that our activity is sustainable into the future."

Todd has three events planned for 2016, including two events in Colorado, and one in northern Idaho, see below for more details about each event.

If you feel like you have what it takes to be a flyathlete, please visit the website at www.flyathlon.com to get on the email list. If your organization would like to partner with or sponsor the Rocky Mountain Flyathlon in order to increase their impact, please contact Andrew Todd directly at cutthroat@gmail.com.

2016 Flyathlon Events:

Flyathlon: Saguache (permit pending) Fishing Difficulty: EASY Running Difficulty: MODERATE When: August 12th-14th, 2016 Where: Saguache, CO Number of Participants:  60

Flyathlon: Gunnison (permit pending) Fishing Difficulty: MODERATE Running Difficulty: EASY When: Late September, 2016 (hold the 23rd-25th for now) Where: Gunnison, CO Number of Participants:  60

Flyathlon: Idaho (permit pending) Fishing Difficulty: TBD Running Difficulty: TBD When: Late July, 2016 Where: Northern Idaho Number of Participants:  30-50