We have summed up all of your likes, tags, and follows and below are your favorite Colorado Trout Unlimited Instagram Posts of 2017. If you would like to be featured on our Instagram with your favorite Fishing story or picture, be sure to tag us @colorado_trout_unlimited or use the hashtag #cotroutstories We are looking forward to more fishing inspiration in the year 2018.
We have summed up all of your likes, tags, and follows and below are your favorite Colorado Trout Unlimited Instagram Posts of 2017. If you would like to be featured on our Instagram with your favorite Fishing story or picture, be sure to tag us @colorado_trout_unlimited or use the hashtag #cotroutstories We are looking forward to more fishing inspiration in the year 2018.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife is looking for the legislature to provide it with authority to increase hunting and fishing license fees for the first time in more than a decade, and we expect to see legislation along those lines during the 2018 legislative session. At one level, the reason for such an increase is very simple - the revenue generated by license fees has been eroded by inflation since the last increase, and in order to deliver the same kinds of service the agency needs to have the funding to keep up with those escalating costs.
But the most frequent question we've heard from anglers and sportsmen generally has been to hear more of the story: what are these funds needed for, and what types of investments specifically will the state make if anglers and hunters increase what we pay for licenses?
The most recent issue of High Country Angler offers some answers. Needs run the gamut from modernizing fish hatcheries, to restoring funds for the "Fishing is Fun" program to improve habitat and create new fishing access, to completing needed maintenance on fishing reservoirs that otherwise could be forced to be drained for dam safety reasons.
Read all about it here - and decide for yourself - are these investments good reasons to pay more on my fishing license? You'll have the chance to speak up on that question with your legislators this year.
JANUARY 4, 2018 – The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) has recently announced their slate of awardees for the competitive Bring Back the Natives Grant (BBN)– a program that will provide $1 million in grants to support habitat restoration and other on-the-ground projects that advance recovery goals of native fish throughout the United States in 2018-19. A partnership between NFWF, the U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bass Pro Shops and the Brunswick Public Foundation, “Bring Back the Natives represents the benefits of coordinated efforts between private landowners and federal agencies to improve the health of watersheds,” said Jeff Trandahl, executive director and CEO, NFWF.
As one of the 15 grant recipients, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) will receive $60,000 to support the design and construction of a critical temporary fish barrier on Cornelius Creek. Located in the US Forest Service Canyon Lakes Ranger District (USFS-CLRD), the George and Cornelius Creek drainage is one of the most significant Greenback Cutthroat recovery sites to date.
The Greenback cutthroat trout is currently listed as “Threatened” under the Endangered Species Act, and is believed to have been endemic to coldwater streams and lakes of the South Platte River Basin. Once a thriving species, the Greenback has suffered significant impacts from human development, competition from non-native fish, and the introduction of whirling disease. Once thought to be extinct, the native trout is making a comeback thanks to a coalition of state and federal agencies, non-profits, private landowners, and public volunteers.
The George and Cornelius Creek watershed has been identified as a high priority for establishing a robust Greenback cutthroat trout metapopulation. Due to its relatively low elevation compared to that of many other streams in the basin where cutthroat trout reintroduction may be feasible, these creeks feature thermal conditions that fall within an optimal range for cutthroat trout recruitment. Additionally, these streams are already managed for a Greenback cutthroat trout recovery population with regard to the Endangered Species Act, Section 7.
Due to the complexity of the habitat within the drainage, Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the US Forest Service will take on the project in stages. With the presence of both whirling disease (WD) and non-native fish in the area, biologists will build three temporary barriers that will segment the two tributaries and allow for effective treatment over the next few years. Once the streams have been cleared of WD and non-native competitors, the Greenbacks will be introduced. This process is expected to take several years.
The desired outcome of the entire multi-phase project is successful establishment of a self-sustaining Greenback cutthroat trout population in 14 miles of connected habitat. At this writing, Greenbacks only occur in the wild in four waters, three of which are the result of recent introductions.
The Greenback Cutthroat Trout Recovery Plan (US Fish & Wildlife Service 1998), although in the early stages of being updated, calls for—among several other requirements—stable Greenback populations in at least 31 stream miles in order for the species to be considered for de-listing. Currently, there are no stream populations in the South Platte Basin that meet the Recovery Plan’s criteria for “stable conservation populations.” Therefore, the importance of the George and Cornelius Creek Project, which is slated to create up to 14 miles of such habitat, cannot be overstated.
The Cornelius Creek barrier is essential to the overall success of the project by enabling CPW biologists to treat the upper section of the creek while concurrent restoration work is being completed in the other units. With the funding provided by the NFWF Bring Back the Natives Grant, CPW will now have the resources necessary to move forward in this critical recovery effort and secure a large drainage for the Greenback.
Note: Due to various treatment protocols for Whirling Disease (which has been found in the area), the entire project will likely be completed near 2026. The barriers will be in place by the end of 2019. For more information, please contact Dan Omasta, CTU Grassroots Coordinator (domasta@tu.org).
For more information on the NFWF BBN Grant and other recipients, Click Here.
Join us “behind the fin” with Ben Bloodworth, President of the Grand Valley Anglers Chapter of Trout Unlimited and Program Coordinator at RiversEdge West (formally the Tamarisk Coalition), located in Grand Junction, Colorado.
How long have you been a TU member?
I have been a TU member since 2001, when I first learned about the organization because I was offered a job to help start up a new office in Anchorage, AK. Sadly, I had to turn the position down (long story involving therapy-inducing spasms of regret), but became a member and have mostly been a consistent member since that time.
Why did you become a member and what chapter are you involved with?
I originally became a member because I believe in the mission of TU. At the time I joined, I had just recently started fly-fishing - as well as attained my Master’s in Environmental Science - so my focus was centered mostly around coldwater conservation (with Trout and the occasional "please-stay-in-TU" gifts being a perk of giving). As a wetland ecologist by trade, I have spent my career working for state agencies and non-profits.
I am currently the President of Grand Valley Anglers (GVA) Chapter in Grand Junction, Colorado.
What made you want to be involved with TU?
The work that TU accomplished nationally (conservation, restoration, rehabilitation, protection) was the main impetus of involvement for me. However, that involvement in the beginning was strictly based upon monetary support (through the annual dues as well as support for individual campaigns) and not direct volunteerism for a particular Chapter..
What is your favorite activity or project you have done with TU?
After all the above-mentioned discussion about conservation work and the like, one may expect that my favorite TU activity would be some awesome stream restoration project. The fact of the matter is that I've been involved with many more of those types of projects in my career than in my volunteerism, so the typical TU project is not what I have enjoyed the most.
As President of the Grand Valley Chapter, my mission here in Grand Junction has been to get a younger and more diverse group of folks involved at the local level. So, while I have enjoyed working on several streamside restoration projects, setting up Trout-in-the-Classroom tanks, and providing community casting events, my favorite projects have been "fundraisers". I use quotes there because, while they are indeed now our Chapter's biggest fundraisers, the events I have started are more about bringing a new crowd out to hear what we as a Chapter are doing. My favorite activities are thus the flyfishing film tours, Iron Flys, and competitions that we are now doing consistently in Grand Junction and I get excited watching how many people who don't know TU come out to enjoy our events and get to know more about who we are.
I know you won’t tell me your favorite spot, but what is your second favorite place to fish or favorite fishing story?
Well, like most fisherman I've got great (in my mind) fishing stories ranging from trout to tarpon, but one of my best ones of late stemmed from a day of bass fishing in Oklahoma, and was much more than just about fishing. This is an excerpt from one of our GVA spring newsletters that tells that story:
"Why was I thinking about TU while fishing for largemouth bass? Well, the gray and white Clouser I was having the best luck with (9 crushing bass on my 4-wt before it was truly hammered) was Pat Oglesby’s. This was one of the flies I had selected from the table in back that Carol had put out at the truly inspiring memorial celebration she held in his memory. Attended by hundreds of people from across the state, it was amazing to see how Pat’s life had touched so many - a life of passion and service for Trout Unlimited, conservation, and youth education. So, while casting for warm water fish, I was thinking about Pat and the cold water fisheries he loved.
GVA supports these cold water fisheries through programs like Trout In the Classroom, Adopt-a-Trout, and conservation and education events for both youth and adults, as well as great community events. These are the things that Pat was passionate about and the things which those of us who get involved in GVA programs commit our time. Casting that Clouser I was thinking about this time, my passion for the TU mission, my vision for GVA in the future, and about trying to carry on the commitment to service that was the life of Pat. The amazing congregation of friends and family to celebrate at the memorial was evidence of Pat’s desire to help everyone with whom he came into contact, not only in their knowledge of fly-fishing, casting, or tying, or even in understanding why conservation is important, but in being better at living a life that matters.
So, whether it is while bass fishing, or teaching a kid to cast a fly, I challenge all of us to consider what a life of service can mean and how we can contribute, not just to the Chapter, but to the people, rivers, and places around us. How we can be more like a man that leaves an amazing legacy, and maybe a few effective flies behind…"
What does being a part of TU mean to you?
Being a part of TU for me is about being associated with a group that gets things accomplished, and accomplishes them well. It is about conserving our fisheries and assuring their long-term sustainability so that we can continue to catch gorgeous trout all across our beautiful country in the future, no matter what the climate, political or otherwise. It is about working together and sharing a beer on the river with fellow flyfishers who feel the way I do about protecting and restoring our native fisheries. And, to be clear, it is about fun, not Board meetings!
What else do you do in your spare time or work?
I currently work for RiversEdge West (formerly the Tamarisk Coalition), a small non-profit based in GJ that works with partners all across the southwest to restore and sustain native riparian areas.
In the little spare time left after work and TU, I cook, garden, read, canoe, camp, hike, backpack, and every now and then get to fish. These activities are often shared with my girlfriend, a little less often shared with my dogs, and still a little less often shared with my kids (who live back East). Oh, I also like to play volleyball, soccer, and guitar...
Collaboration is key when it comes to making positive steps towards conservation. Trout Unlimited's Colorado Water Project is one of those collaborative initiatives working with agricultural leaders and organizations to conserve, protect, and restore our limited water resources around the state. Cary Denison, TU Project Coordinator, Gunnison Basin, was featured in the first segment of "This American Land" and talks about the ways that conservation can work with western water laws in providing the stakeholders with what they need and how Trout Unlimited is part of that conversation.
Water is a limited resource in the west and is one of the major talking points for Coloradoans when discussing conservation. The state experiences very little rainfall in summer, fall, and spring but the mountains collect feet upon feet of snow-pack. Snow-pack is like Colorado's natural water storage that slowly melts as the warmer seasons approach, filling our streams, creeks, and rivers with the water needed to last until next winter. With the decreasing amount of precipitation, that snow-pack is becoming a resource that we cannot solely count on. That's where water conservation comes in.
Water conservation is key in using this limited resource wisely and free up more water for other uses including nature. Not to mention more water for our trout to flourish in.
Check out the episode below!
Interested in the story or project?
Contact Cary Denison, Project Coordinator, Gunnison Basin, cdenison@tu.org
Collaboration is key when it comes to making positive steps towards conservation. Trout Unlimited's Colorado Water Project is one of those collaborative initiatives working with agricultural leaders and organizations to conserve, protect, and restore our limited water resources around the state. Cary Denison, TU Project Coordinator, Gunnison Basin, was featured in the first segment of "This American Land" and talks about the ways that conservation can work with western water laws in providing the stakeholders with what they need and how Trout Unlimited is part of that conversation.
Water is a limited resource in the west and is one of the major talking points for Coloradoans when discussing conservation. The state experiences very little rainfall in summer, fall, and spring but the mountains collect feet upon feet of snow-pack. Snow-pack is like Colorado's natural water storage that slowly melts as the warmer seasons approach, filling our streams, creeks, and rivers with the water needed to last until next winter. With the decreasing amount of precipitation, that snow-pack is becoming a resource that we cannot solely count on. That's where water conservation comes in.
Water conservation is key in using this limited resource wisely and free up more water for other uses including nature. Not to mention more water for our trout to flourish in.
Check out the episode below!
Interested in the story or project?
Contact Cary Denison, Project Coordinator, Gunnison Basin, cdenison@tu.org
The Antiquities Act was put in place to protect America’s special outdoor sites. Sixteen presidents, both Republican and Democrat, have used the Antiquities Act to establish National Monuments to be enjoyed by all, now and in the future.
Over the last decade many cultures, which at one time were very different from ours, have become increasingly homogeneous. This is especially evident to those of us that travel for either work or pleasure. Unfortunately, one of the negative side effects of this “sameness” is that it is becoming harder and harder to find true adventure. Many of us conclude trips feeling as though the adventure we dreamed about and envisioned somehow eluded us or never materialized. If you have ever experienced these feelings or are just looking for some adventure - then head to Argentina’s Northern Patagonia. Here you will find a culture that is rich in tradition set against a landscape of natural beauty. More importantly, this is home to some of the best trout fishing on the planet. Discover this unique environment and experience firsthand its crystal clear rivers, pristine mountain lakes, numerous streams and unique spring creeks.
One way to fulfill your quest for adventure is to combine fly-fishing with camping as your lodging option. This will provide you with the opportunity to fully immerse yourself into the Patagonia wilderness without skimping on the creature comforts. Imagine a day where you fish the river, stream or lake of your dreams and then conclude the evening gazing into the star filled southern sky. You will be experiencing a side of Argentina that most people will never know.
Andes Drifters, located in San Martin de los Andes, has perfected the art of deluxe camping. After multiple years of offering this unique lodging option they have literally equipped themselves to provide for all your needs. From sleeping bags and cots to solar showers and fine wines, it’s all included. They have thought of everything and your dedicated camp staff will pamper you so that you never have to lift a finger!
Another advantage to camping is the ability to fish water that may otherwise be inaccessible. Many rivers, streams and lakes in Patagonia are remote or have limited 
access. Camping becomes a practical lodging solution for those looking to fish on these waters less traveled. Equally important, camping allows you to maximize your time on the water, gives you a chance to fish the evening hatch and minimizes your time spent traveling.
If you are planning a trout-fishing trip to Argentina, give the deluxe camping option some consideration. You can choose this as a one-night option or consecutive nights on an extended float trip. Either way, this is a wonderful way to enjoy Patagonia.
About Andes Drifters
Andes Drifters is located in San Martin de los Andes, Argentina. Our northern Patagonia headquarters is home to some of the best trout fishing in the world. Our seasoned guide team would love to show you this angler’s paradise! If you would like more information please contact: Kevin Landon from Andes Drifters. kevinlandon@me.com or www.andesdrifters.com
Andes Drifters is a proud supporter of Colorado Trout Unlimited.
Argentina Dream Stream - Andes Drifters from Andes Drifters on Vimeo.
Fishing doesn't have to end when the winter season rolls in. Many anglers find icefishing to be a fun way to enjoy to enjoy being outside on a brisk day with the fish swimming below the ice surface. In Colorado, there are many locations where ice fishing is allowed and with reliable reporting on ice thickness for safety. You can check out the Colorado interactive parks map here. The Colorado Parks and Wildlife also has some quick tips before you start walking out onto the ice that you can read here.
Or if you don't want to bust out all the winter gear, then you can always head down to Pueblo and fish the Arkansas River tailwater below Pueblo Reservoir, one of Colorado's best winter fly fishing destinations. You can check out the local TU chapter, The Southern Colorado Greenbacks Trout Unlimited Chapter, if you want to know some of their best Arkansas River fishing tactics and locations.
Additional Resources:
Beginning Ice Fishing 2017 (Denver Post)
8 Ice Fishing Lakes in Colorado
Colorado Statewide Current Fishing Conditions
