Extremely low flows and higher than normal temperatures have taken a toll on the streams and rivers in and around the Vail Valley.  There are several closures in place, and more on the way if the current weather conditions do not change.  The Eagle River is under an all-day closure from Lake Creek in Edwards to the confluence with the Colorado River.  The Roaring Fork is closed in the afternoon from the highway 133 bridge in Carbondale down to the confluence with the Colorado River.  The lower section of the Colorado River is closed all day from Red Dirt Creek near Rifle, downstream.  The Crystal River is also closed from mile marker 64 on highway 133 to the confluence with the Roaring Fork.  Warm water holds less oxygen, making it difficult for fish to breathe, especially after the stress of being caught.  Even a properly handled fish that appears to swim off in good shape after being caught can still die later.  An analogy guides often use is that it is similar to you running a mile and then being told to hold your breath for two minutes as soon as you are done.  Trout are also cold blooded, so warm water adversely affects their metabolism and behavior.  They are extremely sensitive animals and need to be looked after with respect during these low water periods to ensure the health of the fishery as a whole.

While the upper section of the Eagle River, Gore Creek and the Upper Colorado from Pumphouse to Dotsero are still open to fishing, water temperatures are routinely climbing into the high 60’s and even low 70’s by mid day.  The Upper Colorado has only been cooling down to 63-65 degrees overnight, making it difficult for fish to recover from the high daytime temperatures overnight.  Even Homestake Creek, a high elevation tailwater is starting to see afternoon water temps in the high 60’s.  This means anglers who are still trying to get out and fish need to plan accordingly.  Start your day early, as soon as the sun is up, and try to be off the water by mid-day, or as soon as water temps hit 68 degrees.  Anglers need to carry a thermometer and check water temperatures every 30 minutes so they can have a good idea of water temps and how quickly they are rising.

While this may sound bad, the areas where you can still fish have been excellent.  Dry fly fishing on the Gore and upper Eagle has been good, with fish eating terrestrials as well as small mayfly and midge patterns.  For nymphs, worms, small perdigons, midges, and stoneflies have all been productive.  If you are looking to escape the crowds and are willing to put in a little bit of work, the alpine lakes in the area have been another excellent option.  Alpine lakes provide a unique opportunity for anglers to do a majority of fishing by sight, casting to specific fish as they cruise along shelves and around structures close to the bank.  The farther you are willing to hike, the more rewarded you are oftentimes, because lakes that require a longer hike see less pressure from other anglers.  Get out, explore and make sure you are mindful of current conditions where you are fishing so we can protect our local fisheries for years to come.