ICE-FISHING COLORADO
An Overview
Admittedly, it takes a certain type of individual to be drawn to ice fishing, but such dedicated anglers are likely to reap the most beautiful rewards.
There are a few ways to approach the sport. You can go the basic route and just cut a hole, set up a chair and wait for a bite. Or for a more comfortable approach, you can rent an ice-fishing cabin — a moveable structure that goes wherever you want to cut your hole. Cabins provide insulation and protection from the elements, and some even come complete with cots and heaters to add to the comfort. Unfortunately, you'll have to provide the patience. Visit one of Colorado’s many outdoor stores to rent or buy a ready-made hut. See a list of outfitters by visiting Colorado.com.
Gearing Up
When planning a trip, be sure to pack the following essentials:
- Auger or ice saw
- Warm, layered clothing
- Strainer for ice removal
- Tackle box—complete with lures, bait, bobbers, weights and hooks
- Filet knife
- Creel
- Pole (short or full-length)
- Reel
- Monofilament/line
- Chair and flotation cushion
- Fishing license
- Patience
Quick tip: Give your auger and other tools a quick shot of cooking spray to keep ice from sticking.
Where to Drop a Line in
Georgetown Lake (Front Range)
The catch: Rainbow trout
Recommended setup: Ice flies tipped with mealworms
Nearest town: Georgetown
Best place to thaw out: Historic downtown Georgetown
Bonny Lake (Northeast)
The catch: Largemouth bass, walleye, yellow perch, tiger muskie
Recommended setup: Spinning lure or plug
Nearest town: Wray and Burlington
Best place to thaw out: Old Town Burlington
Eleven Mile Reservoir (South Central)
The catch: Kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, northern pike
Recommended setup: Waterdogs or tube jigs tipped with sucker meat
Nearest town: Lake George
Best place to thaw out: Cripple Creek’s gaming halls
Harvey Gap Reservoir (Northwest)
The catch: Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike, rainbow trout
Recommended setup: Crayfish imitations and small jigs
Nearest town: Rifle
Best place to thaw out: Glenwood Hot Springs Pool
Evergreen Lake (Denver Area)
The catch: Rainbow trout
Recommended setup: Jigs tipped with mealworms
Nearest town: Evergreen
Best place to thaw out: Bed and breakfast or cabin in rustic Evergreen
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