A Fly Fishing Guide to Colorado's Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

This special SCRIBD version of provides a sneak peak of what’s inside the complete 160-page book.

This free online version includes: ● The complete first section of the book: ž Acknowledgements & Forewords ž IPWA and Brainard Lake Maps ž Section 1 - Wilderness Overview ž Section II - Hiking & Camping in IPWA ž Section III - Fishing in IPWA ž Section IV - Trout in IPWA ● The first destination found in each of the 7 areas of IPWA discussed in the book (a total of 27 fishing locations in IPWA) ● Complete Index

What’s not in this free online version: ● The remaining 100 fishing destinations ● The Appendix material: ž 54 Effective Fly Patterns ž Area Fly Shops ž Trailhead Information ž Trails Ranked By Difficulty ž Hatch Seasons ž Hatch Charts ž Lakes Containing Fish ž Complete data of Creeks, Streams & Lakes in IPWA

A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area The most comprehensive and fully illustrated guide available, covering over 120 destinations In clu d es B ra in a rd L a k e R ecrea tio n A rea By

Michael Kruise & Steven B. Schweitzer

Contributing Author Benjamin Swigle F ish B iolo gist C o lo ra d o P ark s & W ild life W a terco lo r illustra tio n s b y R ick T a k a h a sh i F ish in g fly p h o to gra p h y b y M a rk T ra cy S p ecia l A d d ition s b y L a n d o n M a yer D a n iel G alh a rdo P h o to gra p h y, illustra tio n s a n d tex t b y th e a u th o rs u n less oth erw ise n oted PIXACHROME Publishing

A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

For more information about this book, visit the online companion at www.flyfishthepeaks.com.

TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHY COPYRIGHT: Michael Kruise, Steven B. Schweitzer. All rights reserved. Others noted where applicable. FISH ILLUSTRATION COPYRIGHT: Rick Takahashi, 2010, 2014. All rights reserved. EDITORIAL REVIEW: Erin Block, Dick Shinton, Benjamin Swigle CONTRIBUTORS: Health and Safety: Kerry Evens, Chief Flight Nurse, North Colorado Med Evac, RN, BSN, CFRN, CEN Fish watercolor illustrations: Rick Takahashi Fishing fly photography: Mark Tracy Writing Contributions: Daniel Galhardo, Landon Mayer, Benjamin Swigle STREAM, RIVER AND LAKE DATA: Benjamin Swigle PUBLISHED BY: Pixachrome Publishing www.pixachrome.com PRINTING: Friesens Corporation Printed in Canada Books.friesens.com First Printing September 2014 No portion of this book, either text or photography, may be reproduced in any form, including electronically, without the express written permission of the publisher.

DESIGN AND LAYOUT: Page layout created with Serif PagePlus X7. Line art illustrations created with Serif DrawPlus X6. Panoramic stitching created by Serif PanoramaPlus X4. www.serif.com. PHOTOGRAPHY and EDITING: Primary Camera: Nikon D7000 Secondary Camera: Nikon D70 Primary: 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Tele Lens: 18-300mm f/3.5-5.3 Wide Angle: 12-24mm f/3.5 Prime: 50mm f/1.8 Panoramic head: Nodal Ninja SPH-1 Photo and HDR Editing: Adobe Lightroom 4 and Photoshop CS5 Panoramic Editing: Serif PanoramaPlus X4 TOPOGRAPHIC MAPS: All topographic maps were created with DeLorme Topo USA® 10.0 software with permission. www.delorme.com. FRONT AND BACK COVER DESIGN: Cortland Langworthy FRONT COVER: Author Steve Schweitzer fishes some pocket water on Middle St. Vrain Creek with a TenkaraUSA Iwana rod. Photo: Mike Kruise

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LIBRARY OF CONGRESS CATALOGING-IN-PUBLICATION DATA: Kruise, Michael and Schweitzer, Steven B. A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area / by Michael Kruise, Steven B. Schweitzer p. cm. Includes index. ISBN-10: 0-9890180-0-8 ISBN-13: 978-0-9890180-0-5 Library of Congress Control Number: 2014913203 A NOTE OF SAFETY REGARDING BACK-COUNTRY TRAVEL AND FLY FISHING: With the exception of just a few roadside locations, fly fishing destinations listed in this book require various levels of physical activity including hiking, backpacking and off-trail travel. Every attempt has been made to discuss the potential hazards and level of physical activity required. It is the responsibility of the users of this book to assess their own capabilities and physical limitations, and learn the necessary skills required for safe hiking and back-country travel. The authors and publisher disclaim any liability for injury or other damage caused by hiking, back-country travel and any other activity discussed in this book. The authors have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this book. From time-to-time, the information within can become out-of-date and require updating. If you find information in this book that requires revision, please notify the publisher for correction in future printings. As always, your comments and suggestions are encouraged and welcomed. Email comments to [email protected]

Acknowledgements

Acknowledgements

A

comprehensive book of this nature requires diligence, perseverance, many hours studying maps and of course, years of hiking and fishing. But it wouldn’t all come together without the generous and encouraging help from many friends each having special talents in their own right. First and foremost, the accuracy of the historical location data and fish management practices within Indian Peaks Wilderness would not be complete without the invaluable contributions by Benjamin Swigle, Fish Biologist, Colorado Parks & Wildlife. From both authors, we take a bow of sincere gratitude - Thanks, Ben. And, the same level of gratitude is extended to Jon Ewert, Fish Biologist, Colorado Parks & Wildlife, who manages portions of Indian Peaks Wilderness with Ben. Without their professional guidance and unselfish sharing of mounds of data, this book would not have the accuracy, detail and substance within. As with the companion book, A Fly Fishing Guide To Rocky Mountain National Park, illustrations and fishing fly photography has become an essential and valuable ingredient in the content of this book. Noted author and illustrator Rick Takahashi provided beautiful watercolors of the fish within Indian Peaks Wilderness. The reproductions in this book don’t do justice to the beauty of each original work of art. A sincere thanks for all the time invested in creating the water-colored works of art, Rick. As both authors know, great photography, not just good photography, is essential to conveying a message beyond the written word. Mark Tracy has taken fishing fly photography to a whole new level with the photos he prepared for this book. Study them closely, you can tie a reproduction of each fly without ever looking at the recipe - Mark has ensured the essential details of the fly is captured in each plate. Mark, we know how much time it took to photograph the flies to the level of perfection only you could master - our sincere gratitude for all your invested effort. Creating an appealing design of the book’s front and back cover to convey the contents within can be a difficult job. Again, we called on the insightful design eye of Cortland Langworthy to create the companion cover to the award-winning design of A Fly Fishing Guide to Rocky Mountain National Park. Besides being one fine guitarist and musician, not to mention fly fisher, Cort’s design certainly adds a professional touch that we couldn’t have done without. Cort - many, many, many thanks. Sometimes you have to call in the experts and when it comes to sight-fishing and fishing tenkara-style, and we had to do just that. Noted author and guide Landon Mayer contributed his insightful ability to visually find and cast to fish, and not just fish, but big fish. If you ever have a chance to listen to one of Landon’s presentations, make a point to - you will learn something, that’s for sure. And speaking of learning something, fishing with Daniel Galhardo, founder of Tenkara USA, will humble you as he routinely and near-effortlessly picks out fish with tenkara gear and techniques in spots you just fished and you’d swear were fishless. Daniel, thanks for sharing some essential tactics on our hikes for fishing with this very effective technique. It has become part of our primary fishing arsenal when fishing the high altitude creeks and streams in Indian Peaks Wilderness Area. When it was nearly all said and done, the book’s manuscript needed a thorough scrubbing. That’s when the eagle-eyed Dick Shinton, guide and local authority on area waters, and Erin Block, noted local author and one of this generation’s most insightful and creative writing talents, came to the rescue. It’s essential that a book of this nature be critically reviewed by those with keen knowledge of the subject; Dick and Erin read the text cover-to-cover many times over. Our humbled appreciation goes to both of you for the countless hours invested in ensuring accuracy and readability. It cannot go without mention the support of family and friends, including those who hiked the hundreds of miles it took to complete research for the book. Noted hiking partners Josh Rickard, Joe Johnson, Liz Yaeger, Chad Goodson, Hunter Umholtz, Renee Umholtz and Scott Bley trekked through rain, sleet, snow and plenty of sunshine to support research for this book. Finally, unending support of those closest to us became the inspiration to continue with the project even when it seemed we couldn’t muster putting on our hiking boots another day. For Mike, the unselfish support and motivation came from his wife, Vickie Kruise. For Steve, that support and enthusiastic encouragement came from Renee Umholtz. Our combined thanks times infinity is not near enough to give for the countless weekends we spent on the trail and in tents in lieu of family obligation, but it is our hopes that this book serve as a lasting legacy that you inspired and have become integrally a part of.

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Contents Figures & Tables How to Use This Guide Foreword IPWA & Brainard Lake Maps Section I – Wilderness Overview Section II - Hiking & Camping Section III- Fishing in IPWA Section IV - Trout in IPWA

6 7 8 10 15 21 35 49

Area 1

59

Coney Creek Coney Lake Upper Coney Lake Envy Lake Gibraltar Lake Little Gibraltar Lake Middle St. Vrain Creek Pony Lake Red Deer Lake Red Deer Lake Drainage

Area 2

71

Blue Lake Upper Blue Lake Lake Isabelle Long Lake Mitchell Creek Mitchell Lakes South St. Vrain Creek Brainard Lake Moraine Lake Red Rock Lake Left Hand Reservoir Left Hand Creek South St. Vrain Creek

Area 3 & 4 Betty & Bob Lakes Devil’s Thumb Lake Jasper Creek Jasper Lake King Lake Lost Lake Middle Boulder Creek, South Fork Rainbow Lakes Skyscraper Reservoir Skyscraper/Woodland Drainage Storm Lake Woodland Lake 4

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Contents

Contents Area 5

101

Banana Lake Columbine Lake Deep Lake Diamond Lake Upper Diamond Lake Lake Dorothy Lower Neva Lake Meadow Creek Meadow Creek Reservoir North Fork Middle Boulder Creek

Area 6

113

Arapaho Creek Cascade Creek Crater Lake (aka Hyslop Lake) Mirror Lake

Area 7

121

Buchanan Creek Crawford Lake Gourd Lake & Drainage Island Lake & Drainage Long Lake, Hell Canyon Roaring Fork River Round Lake Stone Lake & Drainage Upper Lake Watanga Lake & Drainage

Effective Fly Patterns

133

Appendix

141

Trailhead Information Hatch Seasons Hatch Charts Trails Ranked By Difficulty Lakes Containing Fish Creeks, Streams & Lakes in IPWA

Index

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Figures and Tables Figures Figure 1. - IPWA & Surrounding Area Activity Participation Graph, page 18 Figure 2. - Fishing Hook Removal Methods, page 28 Figure 3. - The Four Steps of Fishing Gear Disinfection, page 39

Tables Table 1. - Trout Distribution in IPWA - Lakes, page 54 Table 2. - Trout Distribution in IPWA - Creeks and Streams, page 55

Maps Map of Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, pages 10, 11 Map of Brainard Lake Recreation Area - Summer, page 12 Map of Brainard Lake Recreation Area - Winter, page 13

Errata and Etcetera Correction to errors and omissions can be found by visiting the book’s website at http://www.flyfishthepeaks.com. Additional material mentioned in this book can also be found at the book’s website.

Like the flames from a fire, the sunrise over Cascade Creek trail paints a rich pallet of blue, purple, yellow, orange and red as the rising sun illuminates the clouds and silhouettes the tall spruces and firs.

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How to Use This Guide

How to Use This Guide Key to Symbols and Icons Used in this Book ç - Easy (Slope Grade 0-3) çç - Moderate (Slope Grade 4-7) ççç - Challenging (Slope Grade 8-11) çççç - Very Challenging (Slope Grade 12-15) ççççç - Extremely Challenging (Slope Grade 16+) ô - Location Meets Accessibility Requirements Brook Trout Rainbow Trout Brown Trout Lake Trout or Splake Colorado River Cutthroat Trout Greenback Cutthroat Trout (or cutthroat that has historically been referred to as Greenback) Cutthroat Trout (of hybrid genetics)

Using the Trail Maps and Profiles Trails are highlighted in aqua-blue on a topographic map. Below each topographic map is a trail profile, marked with key destinations along the route. The trail profile matches the highlighted trail on the topographic map. Using the topo map and trail profile together will give a clear picture of what to expect when hiking to a destination. Maps are provided as reference - do not solely rely on them for navigation. Some maps have been rotated to fit the trail for best viewing. Please note the map orientation indicator in the lower right-hand corner of each topo. Use commercially available topographic maps for all navigation. All data is known to be accurate at the time of printing. Topographic Trail Map

Trail Route (highlighted in blue) Map Orientation

Notable Trail Way Points

Trail Profile

Note orientation and scale of map when using for navigation planning

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Foreword - Steven B. Schweitzer On the heels of finishing A Fly Fishing Guide to Rocky Mountain National Park, Mike Kruise came to me and in a light-hearted, almost sarcastically teasing voice asked if I had thought of writing a book in similar fashion about Indian Peaks Wilderness Area. In fact, I had not thought of doing such a book. Instead, I was relishing the thought of having some long-awaited downtime from writing and deadlines. Weeks later, Mike asked me again and saw I was procrastinating an answer, even though I had given it some serious private thought in the meantime. Then he said the magic words that enticed me to commit, "I'll help you with the book." "Really?…", I replied, "Do you realize how much work it's gonna take? It will take two or three years just to do the research adequately, complete with ample photography." I surmised. Almost interrupting, Mike said "I know, and I'm ready…let's do it!" With that I became a sucker for more research and writing and in the early days I often asked myself if I’d taken on too much with my job, general life and such. Eventually, over the following months we planned our research approach and the result is the book in your hands today. Now that the field research is done, writing finished, tents repaired, gear washed, boots re-laced and bumps, bruises and scratches healed, I admit it has been one of my most rewarding journalistic endeavors yet. While Indian Peaks Wilderness is essentially a southern extension of Rocky Mountain National Park, they are worlds apart and draw scant comparison. Indian Peaks Wilderness Area is wilder, having fewer roads and requiring more foot travel at higher altitudes. And it doesn't hurt that I could hike many hundreds of miles with my border collie, Brookie. She knew where we were going each time I packed a fishing reel and rod. Her excitement was almost uncontainable when I laced up the hiking boots as she could smell the trail miles from previous journeys upon them. I dedicate this book to her as she passed away only three weeks after the picture above was taken. Over the years as I have hiked the trails of numerous national parks and wilderness areas, I have learned that if I present myself as nature, in return nature comes to me. Hiking the trails and pitching tents in the backcountry of Indian Peaks Wilderness Area gave me the opportunity to integrate into nature again. That means walking the trails with purpose, taking each step in stealth, constantly observing all around me, shrouded in silence, as I progressed deeper into the backcountry. I have been repeatedly rewarded by visits with moose, deer, elk, fox, pine marten, turkey, grouse, black bear, coyote, marmot, eagle, red-tail hawk, pika, badger and ant hills the size of a one-car garage. I was intently an integral part of nature, acting not as an outsider, but as one who was meant to be there. The wildlife went on about their jobs, knowing I was there, and giving me no-mind otherwise. Each time, I slipped off into the wilderness, leaving those natural inhabitants behind me to continue to whatever it is they do. The feeling of being accepted by Mother Nature is overwhelming, reinforcing the fact that we become an insignificant part of natural entropy when we take the first step beyond a trailhead. Mike and I enjoyed many memorable hikes; too many to comprehensively mention. We were soaked to the bone through Hell's Canyon on a three-day backpack. We jarringly rock hopped and forded streams ATVing to northeast destinations, then hiked to five lakes and three streams on a 25 mile trek in two days. We persevered through lingering leg and foot injuries to cross over the Continental Divide in a twenty-eight mile three-day backpack. Of course, we had off-the-chart fishing in too many locations to recall, although pressed to task, I could. While the Acknowledgements section of this book illustrates how grateful we are, I personally reinforce my gratitude to everyone’s unending support and encouragement - especially to Mike, who encouraged me to start this whole process in the first place. Northern Colorado, September 2014 8

Foreword - Mike Kruise I have enjoyed the riches of the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area all my life. I never fully tapped its resources until I started hiking as part of my fly fishing adventures, and then the doors opened up. I became an instant junkie. I owe most of that to Steve Schweitzer's first book, A Fly Fishing Guide to Rocky Mountain National Park. After reading it and doing a majority of the hikes the book outlined, I wanted more. The hikes and fishing for this book were some of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life. We often walked 15-plus miles a day, hitting the trail at 4:30 or 5:00 am so we could get to all the lakes and streams we planned to photograph and fish. We often walked out in the late evening or after dark. We spent many nights in tents after hauling heavy packs up steep trails. The amazing beauty of Indian Peaks Wilderness Area (IPWA) will captivate you as completely as it did me; I was awestruck on every hike. Every step presented a different view that made me want to take the next. I have stood at what feels like the top of the world looking out on both sides of the Continental Divide, knowing that my truck is ten miles away. I was amazed to realize the beauty of the rivers that many people walk by and don't see, the lakes that are still frozen the second week of July, the hungry fish that only have a few short weeks to feed so they can survive the coming winter and the mama moose with two calves standing 50' off the trail being as silent as they can so we don't notice them as we hiked by. We hope the photos in this book show the beauty, in some small measure, of IPWA as well as the excitement of the fishing we experienced. One of Steve's “rules” is that rods would not be rigged until we reached our final destination for the day's hike. Steve made the mistake once of letting me rig up beforehand; we almost didn't complete our hike because the fishing was so exciting, and getting me to leave was a challenge to say the least. What Steve and I provide in this book is a guide to all of the fishing destinations in IPWA. The book is not just a reference - it's a guide to both the angling and scenic wonders of IPWA. Steve and I hiked every mile mentioned in this book, so it is based on first-hand knowledge. This book gives you the tools and information to hike safely at your own ability level. By taking basic precautions - staying hydrated, hiking at your own pace and being prepared for adverse weather-- almost anyone can reach these wonderful fishing destinations. You'll find difficulty ratings and profiles for each trail so you know what you're going to encounter. The trail introductions provide a general outline and a little personal experience and observations about each hike. For Steve's guidance, and help from several friends who accompanied me on many of my hikes, I say thank you. Special thanks go to one of my closest friends, Scott Bley, who hiked and endured many of the more grueling adventures with me. Finally, without the unconditional support of my wife Vickie, I would not have had the extra encouragement to push on and write more. Thank you, Vickie, for helping me achieve a life-long goal. I have become more passionate about this book than I thought would be the case. It has become my desire for everyone to experience what I have, and hopefully find the beauty that I have seen. The invitation from Steve to co-author this book, to see IPWA from his perspective, and to share his passion for backpacking and fishing has been an experience of a lifetime, thank you my friend. You have the tools - now go fishing! Longmont, CO, September 2014 www.flyfishthepeaks.com

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Map of Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

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Map - Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Map of Brainard Lake Recreation Area - Summer

12

Maps - Brainard Lake Recreation Area

Map of Brainard Lake Recreation Area - Winter

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Section I Wilderness Area Overview

“When words become unclear, I shall focus with photographs. When images become inadequate, I shall be content with silence.” - Ansel Adams

OPPOSITE: Middle St. Vrain Creek is a perfect picture of the prototypical creek in Indian Peaks Wilderness Area. www.flyfishthepeaks.com 15

A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Indian Peaks Wilderness Area Before The Land Was A Wilderness Area The mountainous area west of Boulder, Colorado was native home to Arapaho Indians with remnants of settlement dating back some 10,000 years, although more recent history oft he past few hundred years suggests the Arapaho merely used the mountains as transient hunting lands during the warmer months of the year. In the late 1800s, gold and silver mining fever took hold and the land became peppered with mining activity. Primarily along Arapaho Pass Trail, evidence of old mines and tailings still exist. The mines were quickly abandoned as nothing more than mediocre ore could be harvested. Aside from a few visual clues to mining activity more than a century ago, the land is essentially as raw and untouched as it has been for thousands of years.

The Area’s Beginnings By the turn of the century, the area became part of Enos Mills’ master plan for a national park. Mills included the area comprised by today’s Indian Peaks Wilderness Area and James Peak Wilderness Area as part of the original Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) proposal. But significant resistance came from local mine and mineral rights owners, forcing Mills to re-draft the boundaries of RMNP to exclude IPWA. In 1915, RMNP Mining and milling provided a majority of the jobs in the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area during the mid-1800s through to the early 1900s. Land today known as the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area was privately owned and heavily vested with mining rights. Here, a group of mine workers poses in front of the Caribou Consolidated Mining Company office in Nederland in Boulder County, Colorado, in 1882. The man at the far left in the doorway is James Cowie, an assayer who later became the Colorado Secretary of State. Cowie holds a dog with one hand at his side. Kneeling behind young Bessie Bryant (later married to Jack Clark) is William Bryant, Sr., who was the mill superintendent for several years. (source: Denver Public Library, Western History Collection, K-357)

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Section I - Wilderness Area Overview

History became a national park without IPWA. Over the years, several special interest groups unsuccessfully tried to annex the land now know as IPWA into RMNP, giving way to local mining and water interests. In 1978 the 95th United States Congress, under President Jimmy Carter, designated the Indian Peaks as a wilderness area under the guidance of the Wilderness Act of 1964.

U.S. Wilderness Areas Defined On September 3, 1964 the Wilderness Act was passed after 65 rewrites over the previous nine years. The law, signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson, established the National Wilderness Preservation System (NWPS), a system designed to review all federal lands for potential wilderness area candidacy. The National Park Service (NPS), U.S. Forest Service (USFS), and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) were required to review lands under their jurisdiction for inclusion as wilderness areas. The following conditions must be present to be considered for inclusion as a NWPS wilderness area: 1) the land must be under federal ownership and management, 2) the area consists of at least 5,000 contiguous acres of land, 3) human influence is substantially unnoticeable, 4) there are opportunities for solitude and recreation, and 5) the area possesses ecological, geological, or other features of scientific, educational, scenic or historical value. Wilderness areas are part of national parks, wildlife refuges, national forests and public domain land. They may be managed by the NPS, USFS, USFWS, collectively or individually; however, the NPS manages the most acreage of wilderness area. In 1976, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) was added to the land management team. Most wilderness areas are in national forests, which extend in an out of many of our national parks. Today, nearly 5% of the entire United States is managed as wilderness areas, with half (2.5%) being in the 48 contiguous states. The current NWPS wilderness areas total 109.5 million acres in 758 distinct tracts (as of FY 2014), located in 44 states and Puerto Rico. The Great Swamp in New Jersey became the first designated wilderness area. The largest wilderness area is Noatak and Gates of the Arctic Wilderness in Alaska, comprising 12,743,329 contiguous acres. Colorado’s largest wilderness area is the Weminuche Wilderness Area with 488,000 square acres.

Geography Indian Peaks Wilderness Area covers 77,711 acres of montane, subalpine and alpine terrain. An estimated 10% of the wilderness area is montane, hosting healthy stands of aspen, Douglas fir, lodgepole pine and willow. The montane zone is generally below 9,000 feet in altitude. Above the montane zone is the sub alpine zone (9,000 - 11,000 feet). Over half of IPWA is comprised of sub alpine zone. Vegetation closely mirrors the montane zone, with the addition of subalpine fir and a wider variety of colorful wildflowers. This zone is very characteristic of the Rocky Mountains as a whole, providing a bounty of tall stands of trees, dense vegetation undergrowth, rocky spires, micro canyons, cold streams and lakes. Since the climate is temperate most of the year, much of the wildlife in the Wilderness Area calls this zone its home. Above 11,000 feet, the alpine zone covers more than thirty percent of the wilderness area. From a distance, this seemingly barren terrain presents itself as inhospitable for much of the year, but this couldn’t be farther from the truth. The alpine zone is teeming with vegetation and animal life; everything is just smaller, almost microscopic. Flowers a www.flyfishthepeaks.com

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Indian Peaks Wilderness Area mere one-eighth of an inch wide and only an inch high subtly color the rock-strewn landscape, paving the ground for picas, marmots, small birds and well -camouflaged big horn sheep. Despite that the alpine ecosystem enduring the harshest of winter weather, it is ironically the most fragile. Of the 223 U.S. wilderness areas larger than 50,000 acres, IPWA ranks as 161st with 77,711 acres. Colorado has over 3.2 million acres of wilderness area, making it the fifth ranked state in total wilderness acres. Alaska, ranked number one, has an incredible 57.3 million acres. Alaska is followed by California (9.7 million acres), Washington (4 million acres) and Idaho (3.25 million acres).

Annual Visitorship Indian Peaks Wilderness is commonly noted as one of the most visited wilderness areas in the country. The Boulder Ranger District (encompassing Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland) is responsible for its management and generally limits any efforts that would increase use due to the ever-increasing popularity of the area. While no formal visitation census is taken, annual visitation surveys by the Boulder Ranger District estimates 1.5 million visitors per year. These figures are derived from the USDA Forest Service National Visitor Use Monitoring Program (NVUM). According to recent NVUM satisfaction and ‘crowding rating’ surveys, there’s a good chance you’ll see only a handful of people overnighting in the backcountry during your visit. Most day use is concentrated near developed sites and facilities. More detailed information on visitor statistics can be found by visiting the NVUM website at www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/nvum/. Pertinent visitor demographic data found on the website are summarized below. ► ► ► ► ►

Average group size is small: 2.6 persons per visit Overnight use by females is higher than day use: day use: 35%, overnight use: 43% Most visits are from locals: 75% of visits are from people driving 100 miles or less A majority of visitors are infrequent users: 41% visit the area less than 5 times per year Backpack trips generally last 2 days, one overnight (see chart below)

Figure 1. - IPWA & Surrounding Area Activity Participation graph

IPWA & Surrounding Area Activity Participation (Average hours performing activity located above the bar)

3 hrs

4 hrs 3 hrs

16 hrs 2 hrs

18

5 hrs

3 hrs

22 hrs

35 hrs

3 hrs

49 hrs

Section I - Wilderness Area Overview

Trailhead Information Trails and Roads Indian Peaks Wilderness Area has 28 maintained trails covering just over 130 total trail miles. The trails range in altitude from 8,300 feet to over 13,000 feet. While most all trail miles are expertly maintained, some far reaches of lesser used trails (note: the most difficult ones) are rocky and more difficult. Unlike Rocky Mountain National Park, there are no public access roads that traverse across the wilderness area. This feature alone gives IPWA a more remote and wild feel to it. Between IPWA and James Peak Wilderness Area, there is County Road 117, Rollins Pass Road that approaches Rollins Pass, but does not allow vehicles to cross over the pass. This road can be seen and heard from several points in the lower wilderness area. The road is seasonal and demands a four-wheel drive vehicle much of the season when open. Contact the Boulder Ranger district at 303-541-2500 for seasonal closure status.

Area Entrances, Parking Capacities and Fees A majority of the Wilderness Area is accessed via fifteen trail heads. With the exception of the Brainard Lake trail head, there is free parking at each trail head; space is limited, however.

Brainard Lake Recreation Area Although the Brainard Lake Recreation Area (BLRA) lies just outside the central eastern part of IPWA, it is worth covering since it serves as an essential entryway for many trails that lead into IPWA. Fees apply for parking in BLRA and camping at Pawnee Campground within BLRA. At the time of publication, the standard passenger vehicle fee is $10 for a 3-day pass. Other vehicle fees include vans ($25/1-day), buses ($40/1-day), motorcycles ($5/3-days), hiker/biker/walker ($1/3-days). Interagency Annual, Military, Senior or Access passes, Golden Age and Golden Access passes are accepted. No fee is charged when the seasonal gate is closed (winter season). Due to the altitude of BLRA, the open season is usually mid-June through October. Expect to walk just over two miles from the nearest year-round parking area to access Brainard Lake during closed season. Pawnee Campground, within BLRA, has 39 first-come, first-served camp sites for RVs, trailers, campers and tents. Campsite fees are $19 per night ($22 for oversized units). Golden Age & Access Passports or Interagency Senior & Access Passes provide cardholders a 50% discount on campground fees. Eight walk-in sites are available for tent-only camping. Eight people are allowed per site with the exception of sites #12 and #32, which allow twelve people each. There are no electrical hook-ups, dump stations or showers. BLRA has vault toilets, several picnic areas and handicap access to the facilities and Brainard Lake. Reservations for campsites 15 through 39 will be accepted a minimum of four days prior to arrival (a maximum of 160 days) and cost an additional $10 per reservation by phone or $9 for reservations online. Reservations can be made through www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. All Pawnee Campground visitors are subject to Brainard Lake Recreation Area fees. Other BLRA regulations to note: dogs must be on a hand-held leash at all times; dispersed camping is prohibited. When open, camping is only allowed within Pawnee Campground - no camping is permitted in closed campgrounds.

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Section II Hiking & Camping in the Wilderness Area

"In parks, we have provided for trees a refuge with ourselves. They are to live on, and with them we shall build stately mansions for the soul." - Enos Mills

OPPOSITE: Camp is set high on a flat area overlooking Crater Lake in Indian Peaks Wilderness Area. www.flyfishthepeaks.com

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Indian Peaks Wilderness Area Backcountry Camping and Permits The US Forest Service allocates backcountry permits for the wilderness from June 1 to September 15. A limited number of permits are available for each of the 17 backcountry zones. Permits are limited and issued on a first-come, first-served basis and it’s recommended that you request your permit as far in advance as possible before your outing. At the time of print, permits are $5 per group and/or reservation. Specific regulations include: ► Camping is not permitted between May 1 to November 30 in the Four Lakes backcountry zone ► Permits are required for day and overnight use for organizational groups such as scouts, churches, schools and hiking clubs ► Group size is limited to 12 people and pack stock combined ► In the Diamond, Jasper, Crater and Caribou Lakes backcountry zones camping is allowed only at designated campsites ► Camping is prohibited within 100 feet of all lakes, streams and trails Permits may be obtained by mail or in person from any the following locations: Boulder Ranger District, USDA Forest Service 2140 Yarmouth Ave. Boulder, CO 80301 (303)541-2500 Office hours: Mon-Fri 8-4:30 Estes Park Office USDA Forest Service 161 Second Street Estes Park, CO 80517 (970)586-3440 Summer hours: 9-5, 7 days a week (May vary based on volunteer staff) Indian Peaks Ace Hardware 74 Hwy 119 Located behind Mutual of Omaha Bank Nederland, CO 80466 (303)258-3132 8 am - 7 pm Mon-Sat, 9 am - 5 pm Sunday Junco Lake Wilderness Station (Day of Trip Permits only) 8-5, 7 days a week during in-season Monarch Lake Wilderness Station (Day of Trip Permits only) 8-5, 7 days a week during in-season Sulphur Ranger District USDA Forest Service 9 Ten Mile Drive P.O. Box 10 Granby, CO 80446 (970)887-4100 (V/TDD) (970)887-4101 Summer hours: Mon-Sat 8-4:30 22

Section II -Hiking & Camping in the Wilderness Area

Hiking & Camping in the Wilderness Area

It’s best to prepare meals without a campfire. Use a lightweight backpack stove to heat water and food.

Campfires Campfires are prohibited on the east side of the Continental Divide, as well as west side destinations Caribou Lake, Columbine Lake, Gourd Lake, Crater Lake and in the Cascade Creek drainage above Cascade Falls.

Pets One of the prime benefits of a wilderness area is the opportunity to hike, explore and camp with a trusty canine friend. While hiking the trails of IPWA, you’ll undoubtedly experience many conscientious hikers with dogs by their side. Pets, dogs specifically, are required to be on leashes at all times. Keeping your pet on a leash serves many purposes: to protect your dog from becoming lost; to protect your dog from animal hazards such as mountain lions, porcupines, bears and rabid animals, protect the environment from unnecessary impact; and most importantly, protects the right to continue allowing dogs in the area. Common trail courtesy means keeping your dog on a close leash as you pass each other to avoid adverse interaction between overly “alpha” dogs. But for the most part, you’ll experience that dogs are like their owners, curious about the person they are passing on the trail - and you’ll find dogs have their own friendly way of saying “hi” as they pass each other. Respect the freedom of having dogs with you in IPWA by following the area’s pet regulations.

Pack Stock & Motorized Vehicles Pack stock are allowed in most areas of IPWA with the following exceptions - no pack stock is allowed in backcountry zones Crater Lake, Cascade Creek and Four Lakes. When using pack stock, only pelletized or steam-rolled feed grains or certified weed-free hay, straw or mulch may be used. Do not hobble, tether or picket of pack stock within 100 feet of lakes, streams or trails. Motorized or mechanized equipment, including mountain bikes, wagons, carts and chainsaws, are not permitted. Wheelchairs are allowed.

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Indian Peaks Wilderness Area IPWA Rules & Regulations Summarized The United States Department of Agriculture ( USDA) and Forest Service manages a website for the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area. Go to www.usda.gov and search for “Indian Peaks Wilderness Area” to read the latest rules and regulations. Current regulations are: ► Campfires are prohibited on the east side of the Continental Divide, as well as Caribou Lake, Columbine Lake, Gourd Lake, Crater Lake and in the Cascade Creek drainage above Cascade Falls. ► Pets must be on a handheld leash at all times. ► Permits are required for all overnight campers June 1 through September 15. ► Permits are required year-round for day and overnight use for large groups (8 or more people) and/or organized groups such as scouts, churches, schools, internet outdoor groups and hiking clubs ► Group size is limited to a maximum of 12 people or people and packstock combined. ► Camping is prohibited in the Four Lakes Backcountry Zone from May 1 through November 30. ► In the Diamond, Jasper, Crater and Caribou Lakes Backcountry Zones camping is allowed only at designated campsites. ► Camping is prohibited within 100 feet of lakes, streams and trails. ► Motorized or mechanized equipment, including mountain bikes, wagons, carts and chainsaws, are not permitted (wheelchairs are allowed). ► Packstock are prohibited in the Four Lakes Backcountry Zone, in the Cascade Backcountry Zone above Cascade Falls and on the Diamond Lake Trail #975. ► Hobbling, tethering or picketing of packstock is prohibited within 100 feet of lakes, streams or trails. ► Only pelletized or steam-rolled feed grains, or certified weed-free hay, straw, or mulch are allowed.

Essential Hiking Gear Specialized hiking gear is not necessary for day hiking. A sturdy pair of walking or athletic shoes are all that is needed for a trek to fishable waters. During the summer, a durable pair of hiking shorts with plenty of pockets are perfect for wet wading and hiking. During the fringe seasons of spring and fall, a comfortable pair of convertible travel pants adds a bit of warmth during the chilly days. Consider wearing a thin layer of polypropylene underneath for extra warmth when snow is in the forecast. When not wet wading, high-rise Gore-Tex® lined hiking boots are perfect. One can carefully wade in 6-8” of stream water or rock-hop shorelines of lakes to advantageous casting positions. It should be noted that waders are usually not necessary to reach tantalizing fishing water. A pre-stocked fanny pack is essential: an energy bar, a sandwich, a salty snack and a piece of fruit, two liters of water, an area map (National Geographic’s Trails Illustrated Map #102 - Indian Peaks/Gold Hill), a multi-tool, a lighter, a mini headlamp, a rain shell, a compass, a notepad and pen, bug spray and a basic assortment of first-aid items such as Band-Aids® and ibuprofen. Except for the perishables, this pre-stocked fanny pack can be grabbed on-the-go without having to worry that any essentials are forgotten. For extended trips of two or more days, pack in a tent, sleeping bag, extra clothes, water filter, stove with fuel and dehydrated food commensurate to the number of days you plan to be in the backcountry. A 4,000 cubic inch pack (60-65 liters) is quite sufficient for a 3-5 day jaunt, including fishing gear. Note that waders and boots are not part of the 24

Section II -Hiking & Camping in the Wilderness Area

Hiking & Camping in the necessary pack list. Packing in waders and boots only adds weight to the pack and usually doesn’t yield any extra advantage in fishing. With that said, when waders are packed in, don’t pack boots. Instead, pack Teva® sandals or Crocs® which make adequate wading shoes to protect the wader feet, not to mention they are light weight, water-friendly and double as fine camp shoes. Be careful however, when wading in shoes that don’t have a felt bottom, as they will be slippery on stream bottoms.

Stewardship - It’s

Responsibility

Leave No Trace (LNT) (a.k.a. Zero Impact), hiking and camping operates under one very important assumption that the hiker/camper knows, understands and subscribes to the ethical principles behind it. It is your serious responsibility as a visitor to any national Contributing author Ben Swigle displays a healthy cutthroat park or wilderness area not only to know gill-netted during survey work conducted on Lake Dorothy. and follow LNT practices, but to be an Photo courtesy of Ben Swigle. ambassador for the message, spreading the sensible word to others that may accompany you on an adventure. Zero impact practices are not new. In fact, the concept has been around as long as Native Americans have occupied North America. Native Americans have long asked themselves how a decision today will affect people seven generations from now. This Seventh Generation concept is akin to and very influential on zero impact practices today. Coincidentally, Leave No Trace has seven guiding principles: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Plan ahead and prepare Travel and camp on durable surfaces Take out what you take in Take extra precaution to leave the land as you found it Minimize impact of campfires Respect wildlife Be considerate of other visitors

Some examples of good LNT practices are: ► Do not litter, period ► Do not use open campfires ► Practice EAT - Erase A Trace - and pick up previous visitors’ trash ► Stay within designated campsites to confine the degrading impact of repeat-use overnight camping ► Stay on marked foot traffic trails, don’t use shortcuts

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Indian Peaks Wilderness Area If you wish to become more involved in the stewardship of Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, The Indian Peaks Wilderness Alliance (www.indianpeakswilderness.org) offers numerous education and volunteer opportunities.

Seasons of IPWA The weather in IPWA can be unpredictable any time of the year, and you should always be prepared for the worst a season can offer. This means a rain or winter jacket, extra warm clothes (such as polar fleece), plenty of water and some extra energy bars or snacks. During the peak tourist season, many folks not accustomed to the high altitude visit IPWA through the town of Nederland noting that the temperature is moderate and comfortable. They hit the trail wearing the same clothes they wore driving in - often shorts and a t-shirt. However, as they gain elevation, temperatures plummet and eventually will experience cooler winds or precipitation. The temperature gets cooler the higher one goes. A rule of thumb to remember is the temperature drops approximately two to three degrees Fahrenheit for every 1,000 feet in altitude gain. So, if it’s a comfortable sunny 70ºF at 7,500 feet in Nederland, it can be roughly 55ºF to 60ºF at 11,500 feet at tree line under the same conditions. Prepare accordingly and don’t underestimate the power of inclement weather on unprepared hikers. SPRING: In the spring, warming weather entices many to hit the trails to shake the ‘cabinitis’ or ‘cabin fever’ from the bones. If you are looking for fishable waters during the spring, stick to lower altitude streams that are thawing free of ice cover. Don’t waste your time or put yourself in danger by seeking any lakes above 9,000 feet. Those will all be frozen until mid-to late June. It is unusual to find a lake free of ice in May. Daily temperatures can range from below freezing to the mid 50sºF, however higher temperatures are rare. Expect temperatures in the high 20sºF to low 40sºF during the day. SUMMER: In early summer (June), the lakes start freeing themselves of their ice cover and can offer some of the most exciting fishing of the season: ice-off fishing. Of course, traipsing around looking for ice-out fishing may have you post-holing waist deep in snow and forging past crowd-beaten snow paths on your own. Be prepared with proper gear and extra food and water. Daily temperatures become more comfortable during this time of year, ranging from the low 40sºF to the mid 70sºF. Throughout summer, the fishing can be spectacular, especially when dry fly fishing heats up. Be cautious though; the weather during the summer can be just as harsh and unforgiving as in the winter. Daily bouts of rain showers and lightning strikes are common. One can expect a rain squall, high winds, lightning and even sleet or hail most every day. Daily temperatures become more consistent in the low 60sºF to mid 80sºF. Night time temperatures can still dip down to the mid 40sºF, so be prepared for chilly nights if you spend some time in the backcountry. FALL: When fall arrives, the crowds recede and the fishing remains equally spectacular. Fall also brings back the blustery and chilly days, even when the sun is shining. Expect stronger winds, making lake fishing during the fall more of a hit-miss opportunity. It won’t be uncommon to experience sleet, hail or even snow while hiking during this season - prepare accordingly. Focusing on streams and rivers is a best bet. Daily temperatures resemble early summer ranges with nightly dips into the mid to low 30sºF. WINTER: Winter weather in IPWA is not conducive to fishing, although some open water in any of the lower meadows can offer some fishing opportunities, albeit difficult. 26

Section II -Hiking & Camping in the Wilderness Area

Environmental Hazards in the Wilderness Area What is more appealing in the winter months are the photo opportunities with most destinations covered in pristine virgin snow. Even the most sunny days can still yield high temperatures only in the high teens. As frequently as it rains in the spring and summer, it snows during the winter. Be cautious of walking or snowshoeing over flowing water as the snow may give way and you’ll end up wet and cold, which is extremely dangerous and potentially life-threatening.

Hazards in IPWA LIGHTNING is an ever-present hazard in IPWA, which can be as beautifully stunning as it is dangerous. Lightning most often strikes in the afternoon; it can strike at anytime, however. Close-quarters or approaching lightning creates a distinctive ‘electric’ smell in the air. If you sense or see lightning, go below tree line and away from open low-lying areas such as lakes, gullies and small crevices. It’s best to find the nearest dense thicket of trees and find cover within, or better yet, find a valley or canyon with cover at the bottom. And by all means, don’t fish during the threat of nearby lightning strikes. Remember, a fly rod becomes a lightning rod. TICKS can be present from early spring through mid-summer. They are most common east of the Continental Divide. Most hikers never have problems with ticks. The best way to prevent ticks from hitching a ride is to wear light-colored long pants and long-sleeved shirts. After a day of hiking, especially if you go off-trail, do a thorough check of your clothes and skin for any small ticks. They will be about 1/8” long and reddish brown. Lyme disease bacteria are found in Black-legged Ticks, which are specific to white-tailed deer. There are currently no white-tailed deer in IPWA, only mule deer, however as white-tailed deer populations continue to expand, the possibility of introducing the Rocky Mountain Tick into IPWA becomes increasingly real. To date, no cases of Lyme disease have been reported in the IPWA. UNDERESTIMATING TRAIL TRAVEL TIME is an unspoken hazard. Each year, many folks not accustomed to hiking in mountainous conditions temporarily find themselves hiking back under the cover of darkness, which can be daunting to say the least. When it gets dark, it gets dark and chilly. While this isn’t necessarily a hazard if sticking to a trail, it becomes a hazard if you venture off trail while fishing your way up a stream, for example. Generally, a hiker in reasonable health can cover one to two miles per hour going uphill and two to three miles per hour going downhill. A seasoned hiker carrying a good pace can average two miles per hour uphill and four miles per hour downhill. Be sure to consider your travel time back when jaunting off in IPWA looking for fishable waters. DEADFALL FROM BEETLE KILL is a burgeoning issue in IPWA. The Mountain Pine Beetle develops in Ponderosa, Lodge pole, Scotch and Limber pine trees. As they mature, they transmit the blue stain fungi to the host tree. Once infected, there is nothing that can effectively be done to save the tree. Infected trees rapidly die and become fodder for wind-blown dead-fall and kindling for forest fires. The Colorado State Forest Service has prioritized the removal of dead and infected trees near roadsides, campsites and trails outside of IPWA. However, trees not removed pose an unpredictable hazard in the backcountry. Be observant of the area around you and do not pitch a tent or stop for a rest where you suspect an infected tree can be toppled over by a strong gust of wind. And certainly be cautious when using camp stoves near a stand of infected pines.

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Indian Peaks Wilderness Area Figure 2. - Fishing Hook Removal Methods

Three Fishing Hook Removal Methods Compared Shallow Impalement

Moderate Impalement

Deep Impalement

Retrograde Method

Advance and Cut Method

String-Pull Method

Use this method for shallow impalements or with barbless hooks

Use this method for moderate impalements where rotating the hook point and barb outward is possible

Use this method for deep impalements where accessing the hook point and barb is not advantageous

Preparation

Preparation

Preparation

STEP 1

STEP 1

STEP 1

Carefully rotate the hook backwards by pushing down towards the eye of the hook while pulling out on the bend.

Carefully rotate the hook forward to expose the hook point and barb.

Carefully rotate the hook backwards by pushing down on the shank of the hook while pulling out on the bend of the hook.

Cleanse the area with an alcohol wipe or Cleanse the area with an alcohol wipe or Cleanse the area with an alcohol wipe or hand soap and water hand soap and water hand soap and water Prepare a 12” section of small sturdy Access a pair of wire cutters or a multistring, nylon thread or fishing tool with wire cutting capability monofilament

28

STEP 2

STEP 2

Using wire cutters, snip off the hook point behind the barb. If this is not possible, flatten the hook barb with pliers.

Attach a string to the bend of the hook by forming a loop. Position the hook shank parallel to the skin. Firmly grasp the string and pull snug against the hook bend.

STEP 3

STEP 3

Rotate the hook backwards to remove the de-barbed hook bend. Apply sting ointment immediately afterwards.

While applying firm downward pressure on the hook bend, quickly and confidently tug on the string to pull the hook bend out of the skin. Apply sting ointment immediately afterwards.

Section II -Hiking & Camping in the Wilderness Area

Health Hazards in the Wilderness Area Removing an Impaled Fishing Hook It will happen to the best of us at least once in a lifetime: you’ll stick yourself with an errant cast or just plain grab a hook the wrong way and presto - it’s firmly planted in your finger. Or worse, an over-eager cast drives the fly and hook firmly into your ear. The initial pain is sharp and you are rendered helpless for a few moments until you collect yourself and assess what to do next. You have to remove the hook somehow. There are three primary ways to remove a fishing hook from impalement: 1) Retrograde Method, 2) Advance and Cut Method, and 3) String-Pull Method. The best way to help prevent serious injury from hook impalement is to fish with barbless hooks, which should be your standard practice. It’s more humane and healthy for fish and it will make it much easier to remove from yourself as well. Most embedded fishhooks occur in superficial tissue and may be removed streamside without local anesthesia or special skill.• Be aware that larger hooks, ones that are deeply embedded or in unusual places (i.e. nose, ears, eye area or genitalia) are best treated by a qualified emergency physician.• A tetanus toxoid injection should be administered if it has been longer than five years since being vaccinated.• As with any contaminated wound, any signs of infection such as: redness of the area, swelling, pus drainage or skin that is hot to touch should be treated by a physician. If possible the wound should be disinfected with an iodine-based, hydrogen peroxide or hexachlorophene solution prior to removal of the fish hook.• At a minimum, rinse the wound thoroughly with clean water (bottled water or tap water is best) after removing the hook.• If no method for cleaning the wound is available, letting the wound bleed freely for a few moments will aid in removal of bacteria from the puncture wound site.•If the hook is impaled in a location other than the face, neck, ears or eyes, you probably have a good chance of helping yourself. Figure 2 illustrates what to do for a shallow, moderate and deep hook impalement.

Retrograde Fish Hook Removal This technique works the best with very superficially embedded or barbless hooks.• If significant resistance is met while employing this technique, another method should be utilized. Downward pressure is applied to the shank of the hook while backing the hook out of the point of entry.

Advance and Cut Fish Hook Removal This tried and true method of hook removal is the one that is most legendary, but is actually quite painful and does cause additional tissue trauma.• However, it may be the most practical solution if a very large hook is embedded, particularly if the tip is close to the surface of the skin.• It is necessary to have a good multi-tool or wire cutting plier to utilize this technique. Rotate the shank of the hook away from the barb, forcing the tip through the skin – removed the barb with a wire cutter.• The now barbless hook is rotated back out of the path of entry.

String-Pull Fish Hook Removal The string-pull technique is a highly effective modification of the retrograde technique and is also referred to as the “stream” technique. It is commonly performed in the field and is believed to be the least traumatic because it creates no new wounds and rarely www.flyfishthepeaks.com

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Indian Peaks Wilderness Area requires anesthesia.• A readily available “string” to the angler is the fishing line itself – however, any type of lightweight, sturdy string will suffice. Loop the string around the bend of the fishhook, holding the free ends tightly or wrapping them around an object like a short stick.• Keep the hooked area of tissue flat and stable while depressing the “eye” end of the hook shank.• When the angle of the string and the shank of the hook are parallel give a quick yank on the string while keeping shank depressed – it doesn’t take a lot of force, so be wary of the hook as it comes free and takes flight.

Altitude Sickness Altitude sickness (also called Acute Mountain Sickness) encompasses a variety of symptoms ranging from mild to life-threatening, and results from the body’s inability to adjust to the physiologic demands and decreased oxygen availability at altitude. Altitude sickness is most common at elevations higher than 8,000 feet above sea level and when the rate of ascent exceeds 1,000 feet per day. Research suggests that up to one in four people that travel to Colorado will develop some form of altitude sickness. Things that may contribute to development of altitude sickness include ascending too quickly, over-exertion, dehydration, hypothermia, consuming alcohol or other sedatives. Some of the symptoms of altitude sickness may include fatigue, headache, dizziness, insomnia, shortness of breath during exertion, nausea, decreased appetite, swelling of extremities and social withdrawal. Serious symptoms include shortness of breath at rest, gurgling respirations with wet cough and frothy sputum, confusion, decreased coordination and fever. In general, most symptoms will subside after descending to a lower altitude. Slowing the rate of ascent, keeping well nourished and hydrated, staying warm, and resting frequently are ways to mitigate symptoms. Acetaminophen is generally recommended for mild headache. Remember that although altitude sickness is simple to treat initially, symptoms can quickly worsen and be potentially life-threatening. All serious symptoms should be treated immediately by descending to a lower altitude and seeking medical attention.

Dehydration Almost 70% of an adult’s body weight is made of water, and a typical healthy adult needs to consume between two and three quarts of water each day. Dehydration occurs when there is a deficiency in the body’s water supply. This of course occurs more frequently with exertion, heat, elevation and dry climate – all of which you might experience while searching out that perfect fishing spot in the Rocky Mountains. Symptoms of dehydration include lightheadedness, headache, rapid heart rate, dry mouth, decreased urine output, weakness, confusion and, in extreme cases, unconsciousness. The best rule of thumb for remaining well hydrated is “drink before you get thirsty.” Thirst indicates that you may already be dehydrated. It is best to be proactive and to plan ahead for your fluid intake needs before you set out on your adventure. For an average day hike, plan generously and bring two to three quarts of water, and a high quality water filter for re-filling your bottles on the move. You may need up to six quarts of water on a strenuous day. When filtering water, select clear streams and filter from moving water. Hydration status can be gauged by assessing the color of your urine – the lighter colored the urine, the better hydrated you are. Also be aware of your need to urinate, if you are well hydrated, you should be urinating every 2-3 hours. Commercially made electrolyte 30

Section II -Hiking & Camping in the Wilderness Area

Health Hazards in the Wilderness Area drinks may help in replacing valuable electrolytes lost through sweating. Caffeinated and alcoholic beverages and antihistamines should be avoided as these will cause further dehydration.

Giardiasis Giardiasis is a micro-parasite that specifically targets the small intestine. It is quite common in IPWA waters and is associated with the fecal contamination of water by grazing animals, such as deer and elk. The most common symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating and nausea. Vomiting and fatigue may also occur. Ingestion of an estimated 10 giardia cysts is all it takes to become infected. Giardiasis sneaks up on you. You won’t know you have giardiasis right away as symptoms generally do not present themselves until the 7th day following infection. And when you become infected, the symptoms can last several weeks - including dehydration and frequent trips to the bathroom. The best way to positively diagnose infection is to have a stool sample tested. The only effective treatments include doctor-prescribed drugs taken for 5-10 days.

Frostbite Frostbite refers to a family of cold-induced injuries, ranging from frost nip (common and generally mild) to deep frostbite that may involve loss of tissue. Frostbite is literally caused by tissue freezing to some degree and is typically accompanied by hypothermia. Frostbite is often seen in alcoholics, smokers and those who are fatigued and/or dehydrated. As the body cools in response to exposure, blood is shunted from the extremities to the central core of the body to protect the vital organs. This leaves areas like fingertips, toes, nose and ear lobes vulnerable to tissue freezing. Symptoms may include numbness, tingling, itching/burning sensation, blue or white discolored skin and hardened or blistered tissue. At the first sign of frostbite, every effort should be made to increase circulation to the affected areas and to generally get warm. Some techniques that may be effective are applying friction like rubbing fingers and toes, or doing jumping jacks to increase circulation to extremities. Remove any wet clothing, keep affected areas clean and dry, and remove any constrictive clothing and jewelry. Stay well hydrated and drink warm fluid if possible. Ibuprofen may help relieve the pain and decrease swelling to the area. If frostbite is severe and there is a chance that that you might not be able to get and stay warm, don’t attempt to re-warm the affected area, as the cycle of freeze-thaw-freeze can cause even greater tissue damage.

Hypothermia Hypothermia is a potentially life-threatening risk of adventure sports in the Rocky Mountains. Fortunately, it is often preventable with some basic knowledge and preparation. Hypothermia is a decrease in the core body temperature to a level at which normal muscular and cerebral functions are impaired. Being wet, improperly clothed, fatigued, dehydrated, or intoxicated can contribute to hypothermia. It is important to dress in layers, as Colorado can have a wide range of weather in a very short period of time. In cool temperatures, it is best to remove layers as you heat up, preventing your clothing from being soaked with sweat. Evaporative cooling from wet clothes can quickly lead to hypothermia in cool environments. Symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, which can become violent and later stop when exhaustion sets in, decreased motor coordination, which can lead to coma and death, slurred speech, decreased cognition, muscle rigidity, or skin discoloration. www.flyfishthepeaks.com

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Indian Peaks Wilderness Area Focused on warming up; increasing activity – run in place or do jumping jacks to increase circulation. Get wet clothes off and get dry and sheltered. Build a fire – apply heat (such as heated rocks, water bottles or towels) to armpits, groin and head. Stay hydrated and eat carbohydrates or sugar. Share body heat with others and get out of the wind.

Preparedness and Emergency Response Getting away from it all comes at a risk, and the mountains can be dangerous. Be aware of your resources in the areas where you are hiking – emergency care is available in the mountains, but may be delayed due to lack of communication, remote access and limited personnel. When extreme emergencies arise and minutes count, the only way to be rescued is by helicopter. Anyone can request helicopter transport to a known location or GPS coordinate – experienced pilots will determine a safe area to land and coordinate with emergency ground crews to bring the most appropriate care to you. If you are in the backcountry, calling a rescue service may be difficult due to no cell signal. There are some things you can do to help in advance. Prepare and leave behind a hiking plan with friends or relatives and register at the trail head if it is available (there’s a mandatory registration when you pick up your backcountry permit). Tell others what trail you’ll be taking and how long you expect to be, including when you are expected to return. In the event you or a hiking partner becomes injured and cannot make it out under self-power, there are several common-sense steps to take before leaving for help. 1. Ensure the injured is kept warm, dry and sheltered. Wrap them in extra clothing, a sleeping bag or an emergency blanket. In extreme conditions, building a fire near the injured to keep them warm is an option, but comes with additional potential dangers. Typically, this should be considered only during the winter. Fires also act as a location beacon. 2. Ensure the injured has plenty of water to quench thirst and wash injuries. Ibuprofen helps ease the pain. If the injury is extreme, help them secure a comfortable position without moving them too much. If the injury includes debilitating broken skin or bones, apply general first aid by rinsing and covering the wound areas to help prevent infection. Don’t attempt to ‘fix’ broken bones, you may make things worse. 3. Leave the injured with a way to signal; a whistle or a mirror are common items. Then go for help. Make sure you know how to get back to the injured, mark the trail if necessary.

Off Highway Vehicle (OHV, 4WD) Use to Access IPWA Some areas of Indian Peaks Wilderness can be accessed via off-highway vehicles such as a 4-wheel drive truck, an ATV or a dirt bike. Being able to access trailheads via four wheel drive roads significantly cuts down on the hiking miles and can be a fun way to incorporate four-wheeling with hiking and fly fishing. There are three primary four-wheel drive roads that provide access to trails and fishing within IPWA: ► Coney Flats Road (access to Beaver Creek and Coney Flats Trailheads) 32

Section II -Hiking & Camping in the Wilderness Area

Hiking & Camping in the Wilderness Area ► Middle St. Vrain Road (access to St. Vrain Glacier Trail) ► Coney Cutoff Road (connects Coney Flats Road and Middle St. Vrain Road) Each of the roads mentioned above are discussed in more detail within the Fishing Destination sections within this book, where applicable. When using an OHV to access parts of IPWA, there are some basic guidelines and rules worth mentioning: ► No motorized or mechanized vehicles are allowed within the boundaries of IPWA ► All resident-owned ATVs and non-street dirt bikes are required to be annually registered with Colorado Parks and Wildlife (cpw.state.co.us) ► Out-of-state residents who bring OHVs into Colorado must purchase a Colorado Non-Resident OHV permit which is valid from the date of purchase through the following March 31. These permits can be purchased anywhere Colorado hunting and fishing licenses are sold, via mail-in request, or online ► Any rider under 16 years of age must wear a helmet ► With rare exceptions, it is not legal in Colorado to ride an ATV on public roads, highways or streets ► A good website for more information regarding OHV use in Colorado is StayTheTrail.org. The website provides more detailed information on licensing, motor vehicle use maps, seasonal closure information, safety and proper trail etiquette Author Steve Schweitzer crosses a stream while riding on the OHV Middle St. Vrain Road. The road is a popular four-wheel drive route to access Beaver Creek Trailhead, Coney Flats Trailhead, Buchanan Pass Trail and the St. Vrain Glacier Trail. The road can be accessed via the Middle St. Vrain Trailhead at Camp Dick. Note: There is limited parking for vehicles and ATV trailers at the Middle St. Vrain Trailhead.

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Section III Fishing in the Wilderness Area

“In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.” - John Muir

OPPOSITE: Author Mike Kruise finesses a dry fly through a small plunge pool. Moments after his second cast, a lively brook trout came from the right side between the white water and the bank to aggressively take the fly. www.flyfishthepeaks.com

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Indian Peaks Wilderness Area Fisheries Management in Indian Peaks Wilderness Area Section contributed by Benjamin Swigle, Fish Biologist, Colorado Parks and Wildlife

Fisheries management in the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area in north central Colorado is jointly held by the United States Forest Service and the Colorado Parks & Wildlife. Fish management prior to the 1970s generally focused on the production of self-sustaining, easily harvested populations of sport fish. In the minds of our ancestors, stocking brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) filled this void. Brook trout, native to northeastern North America, were intentionally introduced into the wilderness territory by locals (1920s) and WWII veterans (1945-50) carrying large milk cans filled with water and brook trout. The philosophy of early fish managers was simply to stock as many waters as possible and determine at a later time what worked. Although the last brook trout stocked in the Indian Peaks took place on August 1, 1977 (Rainbow Lakes), natural reproduction continues to sustain a variety of brook trout fisheries in the wilderness territory. Mentality slowly began to change in the 1970s as a movement toward species conservation and production of trophy trout fisheries gained momentum. From 1978 through 1996, the waters within Indian Peaks Wilderness were almost exclusively stocked with Pikes Peak Cutthroat Trout, a fast growing sub-species of trout that closely resembled the greenback cutthroat trout. Finally, in 1999 hatchery production allowed Colorado Parks and Wildlife to exclusively stock what were thought to be pure-strain greenback cutthroat trout. Despite physically resembling historic stocks of greenback cutthroat, advances in genetic testing technologies found that the stocked greenbacks were a genetic mix of greenback and Colorado River cutthroat trout. Thus, it is believed that our predecessors frequently transferred cutthroat back and forth over the Continental Divide in addition to the robust brook trout stocking program. Although this story continues to unfold, anglers in the Indian Peak Wilderness areas will routinely continue to catch brook trout and ‘native’ Colorado cutthroat trout. Bob Todd prepares to lead a high mountain lake stocking effort via horseback. Notice the constant aeration of the saddle packs containing trout fingerlings. Photograph courtesy of Harry Crockett.

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Section III - Fishing in the Wilderness Area

Fisheries Management

A stocking truck readies fish containers to be carried by the Cessna 185 fixed-wing, which will drop several thousand trout fingerlings in high altitude lakes of Indian Peaks Wilderness Area. Photograph courtesy of Ben Swigle.

Besides the modification of species stocking after 1999, the preferred method used to stock high mountain lakes switched from backpacks and horses to the almost exclusive use of fixed wing aircraft. Flying modified Cessna 185 airplanes, Colorado Parks and Wildlife pilots semi-annually stock 50,000 fingerling size native cutthroat trout in 35 Indian Peak lakes ranging in altitude from 8,500 - 12,000 feet. The pilots drop thousands of fish out of one of 12 containers attached to the belly of the aircraft. Each container contains a specific number of trout fingerlings determined by the fishery biologist based on surface acreage and prior survey data from a given lake. Completing the stocking in the Indian Peaks generally takes a total of three fish stocking runs. Stocking rates for native cutthroat trout are primarily determined by high mountain lake gill net surveys. Standardized gill nets (6’ x 150’) are set out of a belly boat and remain over night. The basis for the surveys lies in the ability to accurately identify, measure and safely return as many individuals as possible. Analysis of the data determines parameters such as abundance, density and species composition. In general, if a particular lake is dominated by brook trout, native cutthroat trout stocking will be reduced or eliminated. If the existing crop of cutthroat be deemed in poor condition, future stocking rates may decrease. On the other hand, if catch rates are particularly low and cutthroat are found to be of acceptable condition, stocking rates may increase. Jeremy Skaw hikes in to a lake in Indian Peaks Wilderness Area to complete a gill net survey. Photograph Courtesy of Ben Swigle.

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Indian Peaks Wilderness Area Fishing Licenses and Fees A valid Colorado fishing license is required for all persons 16 years of age or older to fish Indian Peak Wilderness Area waters. With a few exceptions, virtually all streams and lakes within the wilderness area are regulated under Colorado Parks & Wildlife’s daily bag and possession limits. Current fishing regulations for the entirety of Colorado can be found at: http://cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Pages/Fishing.aspx.

Possession Limits Daily bag limit refers to fish caught that are not immediately returned to the water. Fish released are not part of the daily bag limit. Possession limit corresponds to the maximum number of fish allowed at any time, including in the field, transporting, at home, or in storage until those fish are consumed. Statewide daily bag limits for brook, brown, cutthroat, lake, rainbow, and splake, and lake trout is four (4) fish in aggregate. The term aggregate means the limit may consist of one species or a combination of various trout species. Possession limit for trout in the Indian Peaks Wilderness is eight (8) fish in aggregate. The collection, use or possession of live fish for use as bait is prohibited in all water within Indian Peaks Wilderness Area.

Special Regulations Anglers in the IPWA need to be aware of the following special regulations: 1. Como Creek (Boulder County): From the headwaters downstream to the confluence with North Boulder Creek fishing is prohibited 2. Hamilton Creek (Grand County): Fishing by artificial flies and lures only, cutthroat must be returned to the water immediately 3. Ranch Creek, North Fork (Grand County): Fishing by artificial flies and lures only, cutthroat must be returned to the water immediately

Being Fly Fishing Stewards of IPWA As a visitor to the area, you have two responsibilities: to thoroughly enjoy your time in the wilderness and to leave it as you found it so it can be enjoyed again and again. Leave No Trace (LNT) doesn’t just apply to backcountry campers. Indian Peaks Wilderness is not immune to clues left behind by previous fishers. Consider picking small bits of trash up and carrying them out with you - which abides by another rule of backcountry camping, Pack It Out. Make a habit of carrying a gallon-sized zip-lock plastic bag to stow any trash found while hiking. As you exit the trail for the day, either place it in a trash canister or simply take it home to dispose of later. We are continually amazed at the amount of non-compostable debris found at high altitudes. Occasionally we all run into an unethical or disrespectful anglers, and at times we just may be that person. The most prominent issue encountered is trash littering trails: trash such as cigarette butts, leader packs, coiled leader material, candy wrappers and drink bottles. We’ve even found broken reels and rods left behind. There’s a really simple solution - if you pack it in, pack it out. It honestly doesn’t take any extra effort to pack trash out. There are trash cans at most every trailhead that make it easy to discard trash as you exit the trail. Another issue occasionally seen is crowding another fisher. The rule of thumb is to give another fisher plenty of space to fish the area around them including allowing them to fish in solitude as much as possible. Generally on streams and creeks, if you can see another fisher, you are too close. Move on and find another stretch of water that gives 38

Section III - Fishing in the Wilderness Area

High Altitude Fishing Tactics you solitude. For lakes, use good judgement to stay out of range of a fellow fisher. Give them or her plenty of casting distance on either side and then move down some more. There’s plenty of fishing water in IPWA to allow every fisher on any given day plenty of space to enjoy fishing in solitude. An issue that sparks controversy amongst the best of anglers is “should one fish for spawning fish?” As a practice, conservation-oriented anglers do not target spawning fish, primarily because of the belief spawning fish should be left alone in order to create more fish to catch in future years. It is, therefore, recommended to avoid spawning beds (redds) so as to not disturb them while walking across streams or along lake edges. Brook trout deserve special discussion; if you plan on keeping some brook trout (according to good fisheries management practices), consider harvesting fish during non-spawning seasons. See the section entitled “Possession Limits” for more detail on harvest regulations.

Aquatic Gear Guidelines Several invasive species and parasites threaten the waters in which trout live. Anglers must take extra precautions to clean gear to protect the waters of IPWA. Whirling disease affects juvenile fish by causing skeletal deformation and neurological damage. Spores are released into the water by infected fish upon their death. Some spores are ingested by small tubificid worms. Juvenile fish are infected by free floating spores through skin or by ingesting the tubificids. It takes only four months for an infected fish to develop new spores to start the cycle all over again. New Zealand Mud Snails propagate to alarming densities. The mud snail has no natural predators or parasites in the U.S. and is quite adaptable to the harshest of conditions, even living up to 24 hours out of water and up to 50 days on a damp surface (such as felt-bottomed wading boot soles, around the tongue and laces, etc.). What’s more, they can reproduce asexually, producing over 200 embryos annually. The snails out-compete indigenous water insects for food, eventually displacing the insects which trout feed upon. The snails are deceptively small, less than 2cm in length, blending in with the stream bottom. And, since they are so small they are often overlooked when cleaning gear. Cleaning fishing gear should be an important and essential part of a fisher’s regimen.

Required Fly Fishing Equipment For most applications, a 3-4 weight, 8-foot rod is quite sufficient. Occasionally, a 5-weight, 9-foot rod will come in handy for windy conditions, especially when fishing lakes, but often this is too much muscle for streams. For smaller stream fishing, a 7-foot Figure 3. - The Four Steps of Fishing Gear Disinfection.

1 Clean Remove all large debris from boots, waders, nets, etc.

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2 Wash Wash all equipment (and tools used to clean equipment) in tap water containing 10% household bleach. Allow the equipment to soak for 10 minutes.

3 Sterilize Freeze gear overnight (the most effective option) -orSoak and agitate the gear in a 1:1 solution of water and Formula 409™ Antibacterial formula for 10 minutes -orSoak and agitate the gear in 120° Fahrenheit water for at least 1 minute (a dishwasher works well)

4 Air Dry Allow all equipment to air dry in direct sunlight for at least 4 hours before wearing to your next destination.

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Indian Peaks Wilderness Area 3-weight or an eight foot four weight will allow you to cast in tight confines. We recommend four piece rods which pack and carry nicely on day or extended day hikes. A selection of leaders need not be extensive; two basic types are adequate. For stream fishing, a seven to nine foot leader terminating into 5X tippet is quite sufficient. For lake fishing, longer leaders and finer tippet might be required - consider using a nine to eleven foot leader terminating in 6X for dry flies in sizes 18 through 22. A 5X tippet is perfectly sufficient for fishing lakes. For ultra-finicky trout, before going with a smaller sized tippet consider lengthening the current tippet to provide a bit of slack in the leader, which allows the nymph or dry to more naturally move with the currents of the water. This is the basic premise behind George Packing frugally for a multi-day backpack into the high country will Harvey’s slack line leader concept. help shed unnecessary pounds in the pack and still cover the four For more information on leader principles of outdoor survival (in order): shelter, water, fire (or a way designs, read “The Global Fly to prepare hot meals) and food. Of course, make room in the pack Fisher’s Guide to Hand-Tied Fly for a fly rod, reel, flies and other fly fishing necessities. Fishing Leaders”, found at www.globalflyfisher.com/fishbetter/leadercalc/. If you want to try your hand at tying your own leaders, download the accompanying interactive MS-Excel™ spreadsheet tool, LeaderCalc, which contains over 120 different leader formulas for all situations. Since the trout in IPWA have a short growing season, they are generally willing to take any decently-presented fly. This means the selection of flies you carry need not be extensive. Carry a few medium-sized fly boxes chock-full of hoppers, ants, para-adams, hare’s ears, Tabou Caddis, San Juan worms, damsel nymphs, scuds, Pheasant Tails, egg patterns, stonefly nymphs, drab colored Woolly Buggers and Elk-Hair Caddis. Also carry nippers, 3x-6x tippet, an extra leader or two, floatant and a strike indicator or two. This all fits into a small fly fishing pack which can fit in a backpack or fanny pack without taking up too much room. Wet wading is a popular option during the heat of the summer. Waders and wading boots are optional as Tevas™, Crocs™ or wading sandals suffice just fine as light-weight alternatives to lugging around heavy boots. Re-consider wading in lakes, as it just isn’t necessary to access cruising fish - they come to you if you are stealthy. Wading in lakes can damage the fragile micro-habitat necessary for producing small critters fish like to eat. 40

Section III - Fishing in the Wilderness Area

High Altitude Fishing Tactics You will experience wind while fishing the lakes of IPWA, so a longer, heavier lined rod is essential for casting any distance against the wind. An 8-½ foot five-weight rod is ideal. You’ll find yourself wishing you had more if you take a three or four weight. Many anglers carry two rods, a three weight and a five weight: the three weight for streams and the five weight for lakes. Floating lines are all that is needed. It is not needed to get down much below four or five feet from the surface to fish lakes in IPWA. Often times lake fishing is pure dry fly fishing anyhow. Float tubes are allowed on all lakes in IPWA and can be an effective way to reach fish not otherwise reachable from shore, but not necessarily larger fish. Since float tubes are bulky and heavy, and hungry fish tend to cruise the shorelines, most anglers forego carrying float tubes and accessory gear. Lightweight float tubes designed for hiking are available.

High Altitude Creek, Stream & River Fishing Methods There are two basic types of moving water to fish in IPWA - small creeks/streams, and larger rivers. For purposes of discussion in this book, creeks are defined as the smallest of drainages, with streams being mid-range in size and rivers being the largest in size. And if you talk to an old-timer, the word “crick” might even enter the conversation. While there are no formal guidelines to define these waters, we define them in the following manner. A creek can be characterized as being only a foot to four to six feet wide. It is usually a foot or two deep at most with pocket water being small, essentially the size of a kitchen sink. It can be rock-hopped and even leaped across with out ever getting wet. These types of creeks most often drain surrounding land into a larger river system or into a lake. They often are rock and/or boulder strewn and are in the open terrain. This is not to say creeks don’t run through wooded areas; they do. When this occurs, they are choked with deadfall and protected overhead with a canopy of living trees and brush. While this all sounds cumbersome to the angler, particularly for navigating and fishing the stream, it can be the exact structure that defines superb habitat for year-round resident trout. Trout in these waters typically are in the 4” - 8” class and are eager for a well-presented dry fly. But don’t let the small size of the residents keep you away looking for the larger brethren - some of the largest fish, cutthroat in particular, seem to favor these small waters, particularly around lakes, where they can migrate in and out of the security of the deep water when they feel the need. Aside from spawning time each year when they migrate into these small waters to make more trout, these larger fish tend to like the condensed Daniel Galhardo works some slack water on the other side of some fast rifles. Tenkara style fishing is extremely effective for fishing pocket water from distances, even over varied currents, avoiding the problem of line drag.

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Indian Peaks Wilderness Area nature of a small creek funneling food to them - a big difference for them when living in a lake and having to go seek food out. A stream can be characterized as being too large to be a creek and too small to be a river - how’s that for specifics?! Ambiguity aside, a stream typically is eight to 20’ wide or so - a rod length or two wide is a good rule-of-thumb. They can be rock-hopped but usually not leaped across unless you are an exceptional long jumper. The stream’s bends are cut deeper and offer more hiding spots for larger trout. The boulders get bigger and help carve out larger pocket pools behind them. A bathtub sized pocket, or larger, behind a boulder is not uncommon. Sometimes, the outflow from a lake would be considered a stream, while the inflow could be a creek. By and large, the flowing waters in IPWA can be considered streams, although by name they may be called “XYZ Creek.” It’s fun to partner up with a hiking friend and fish on either side of a stream, taking turns working every pocket and rock, making sure to take photos of each other along the way. Each can act as the guide for the other - spotting holding fish and helping your fishing partner along. You’d be surprised what you learn by watching someone else fish the same water as you. A river then, is the largest body of flowing water by definition. It can be navigable and can be too treacherous to cross, particularly during run-off in late June or early July. Fly fishing tactics for creeks, streams and rivers vary. Let’s explore some effective tactics for creeks and streams further.

Effective Tactics for Fishing Small Creeks Trout in small creeks are the most wary of all. Oftentimes, the creek flows through a meadow or rambles down a rocky gradient feeding some other body of water. The lack of overhead cover makes these trout more easily seen and fished to, providing a stealthy approach has been made. The angler must then make do with other forms of available cover to mask his/her presence. A boulder or a tuft of streamside vegetation can be the perfect blind, although making yourself “small” is a must to take advantage of such tiny hiding spots. A trout in only a few inches of water, to a few feet deep, has a limited cone of visibility above the water’s surface. The deeper a trout is the more periphery the trout can see above the water. Approaching small creek water is best done by silently walking the streamside, being careful not to walk with a heavy foot. A heavy step acts like a drumstick, pounding and reverberating the ground around the stream, ultimately sending non-visible warning signs to trout nearby. Walk slowly, deliberately and keep a keen eye out for trout in all the typical holding spots. Look for trout in holding spot locations in the following order: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

In deep cuts along banks In the deeper outer edge of a bend in the creek In front of or behind boulders and deadfall Before or after riffles and in tailouts (active feeding fish only need apply!) In the classic “bubble line” between fast and slow moving water (most creeks won’t have this type of water, but streams and rivers will)

Casting to small creek fish usually gives one or two opportunities, then the fish scatter, as they are often the most skittish type of fish. The typical rule of thumb is to dry fly upstream, nymph downstream. While this is certainly applicable to small creeks, there are distinct advantages when dry fly fishing downstream is preferred. While fishing upstream with a dry fly, if the sun casts a shadow over the water you intend to fish, switch it up and 42

Section III - Fishing in the Wilderness Area

High Altitude Fishing Tactics

Author Mike Kruise works a dry fly through a severe undercut bank - a prime location for small creek fish. Notice how he is keeping all the fly line off the water and most of the leader, in an effort to reduce any adverse current drag effects on the fly.

fish downstream. As mentioned above, if heavy footsteps are the number one alarm system for trout, then shadows become number two. Don’t allow your body to cast a shadow over the small creek water you intend to fish. In some cases, you just can’t prevent a shadow from being cast over the water. When this situation occurs, make yourself small, crouch down and fish low to the water, being cognizant of where your shadow is at all times. When nymphing a small creek, a strike indicator is rarely used. Instead, using a sturdy dry fly such as a Madam X, small Stimulator or hopper pattern acts in place of of strike indicator and offers the fish another option for food, just in case they decide to look up. Twelve to 24 inches below the dry fly tie on a nymph that would represent something living in that creek system. A small Pheasant Tail, Hare’s Ear, green caddis larvae, yellow stonefly nymph are good choices to consider. More specific local fly patterns can be found in the back of this book. Typically, with such small water we are discussing, heavily weighted nymphs are not necessary.

Effective Tactics for Stream Fishing Streams offer the angler more options for finding and fishing to trout. Just by virtue of their size, streams provide larger pockets, pools, runs, riffles and eddies. Rainbows like riffles and runs. Brown trout like pockets, pools and eddies. Brook trout and cutthroat tend to be less picky and will seek out the best holding option for obtaining food. Fishing streams becomes more of a finesse game, seeking out likely holding spots and precisely putting a fly where it needs to be to entice a strike. In most cases, summertime fishing in IPWA entails pure dry fly fishing. Nymphing is not needed. Drifting a dry fly through a pocket or a run, or over a riffle, or behind a boulder is easier. Concealing yourself behind trees and rocks is easier because of their size. But keeping line on the water can be challenging. In an average 15 foot cast to float a dry fly over a pocket behind a boulder, the fly line could span a riffle, current seam and slack water, for example. All of these water types have different surface current speeds and challenges. If your rod and arm are long enough to hold the fly line and leader out of the water, leaving the fly to float www.flyfishthepeaks.com

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Indian Peaks Wilderness Area naturally, then all the better. But many times this just isn’t in the cards. Either you reposition yourself to limit the amount of water types you have to float over, or your move closer to the subject water in hopes of keeping the line out of the water. In either case, you risk spooking fish from their lair. The rule of thumb of fishing upstream certainly applies here, working your way upstream picking apart the water systematically one holding spot at a time. A summer of fishing IPWA stream water will make you an expert at knowing how to effectively read stream water and how to be a more stealthy fly fisher. The ideal rod and line for stream fishing in IPWA is an 8 ½ foot 4-weight loaded with weight forward line. A seven to nine foot 5X leader is sufficient more most circumstances. If it is a particularly windy day, a shorter leader becomes more manageable. Invariably, you’ll spot holding trout in the locations that are most difficult to effectively drift a fly or run a nymph - trout just seem to be masters at finding the most frustrating locations for fly fishers. This is where casting a flyline with fly is inadequate. Enter the Tenkara style of fishing in high altitude small waters.

Creek & Stream Fishing Tenkara-Style Section written by Daniel Galhardo, Founder of Tenkara USA

There are different fishing methods and tools that can be successfully used to fish the Indian Peaks Wilderness. There is one tool/method that readers of this book may not know: tenkara. Tenkara is the Japanese method of fly fishing that uses only a rod, line and fly. The introduction of tenkara to the U.S. is a new and exciting development when it comes to fishing equipment and techniques. For the Indian Peak Wilderness visitor it brings a few advantages, namely: portability, quick setup, simplicity, and effectiveness. Simplicity: Tenkara is a method of fishing that originated in the hands of commercial mountain stream anglers in Japan, a fact that has significant influences in how simple and effective it remains to this day. The original commercial tenkara angler kept things simple out of necessity, but they learned how to make the simple things work very effectively. Beyond the “only a rod, line and fly”, there are many lessons we can learn from tenkara. For example, one of the main questions people have when going to a new area is “What fly should I use?”. The tenkara angler will tell you, “any fly will work”. Tenkara anglers in Japan are known to find their one fly pattern and stick with it. This is a very different approach to the conventional “match-the-hatch” philosophy, however, many tenkara anglers use one pattern in a great variety of waters and conditions and can confirm that most flies will work as long as they are of reasonable size and shape. Portability: The rods are quite portable, designed to telescope. A 12- or 13-foot rod (the average and recommended lengths) collapse down into a mere 20 inches. This will easily fit inside most backpacks. The minimalist nature of the method means one doesn’t have to carry much equipment and a full setup may weigh as little as six ounces - appealing to the ultra-light backpacking enthusiast. Suggested Tenkara Equipment: ► Tenkara rod (the 13-foot/14-foot,7-inch Tenkara USA ITO rod is a very versatile and highly recommended rod for IPWA). ► Tenkara line (there are two types of lines that may be used in tenkara, a tapered and a level line. The level line will give extra flexibility in terms of length of line used. It is recommended that one start with a line length that is about the same as the rod, but lines as long as twice the length of the rod 44

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Daniel Galhardo, founder of TenkaraUSA.com, fools an actively feeding brown trout from a perfect feeding pool using a tenkara-style fly of his own design, the Oki Kebari (translates to ‘big fly’).

may be used. For most situations a 13-foot rod with 15-foot line and four feet of tippet is a good start.) ► Tippet (four feet of 5X tippet is recommended) ► Tenkara line holder (this is a spool used to wind the line when not using it or when moving through brush) ► Forceps and nippers ► A selection of appropriate flies Quick Setup: The ease of setting up the tenkara rod, line and fly will be greatly appreciated for the angler who likes moving from spot to spot, or the person who is backpacking and wants to stop and fish a good-looking hole but doesn’t want to spend several minutes setting up or taking the equipment down. In tenkara the line is tied directly to the tip of the rod. Once the line is tied to the rod tip, the angler proceeds to extend the rod, a process that takes roughly seven seconds. One can go from a fully collapsed rod in his pack to casting to the streams or lakes of the Indian Peaks in less than one minute. And, when ready to move to a new spot, it will take about 40 seconds to stow the 20-inch rod back into a pack. What fly should I use? Preference is given to a fly that can be the most versatile (i.e. one fly that could be fished on the surface, under the surface, or sunken deeply if desired). Also, consider a pattern that will suggest just about anything in the water, though it doesn’t try to imitate anything perfectly; this adds to their versatility. Lastly, a fly that can be imparted with some motion is advantageous. With these things in mind, the traditional tenkara fly with a reverse hackle (or sakasa kebari) is best to serve as the “one fly.” The Oki kebari is a highly The consummate tenkara teacher Mr. Katsutoshi Amano, effective tenkara fly for fishing favors the Amano Kebari, which is tied in size 12, with in IPWA. www.flyfishthepeaks.com

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Indian Peaks Wilderness Area light-colored sewing thread as the body, and pheasant hackle which is tied facing forward. The softer hackle has a lot of motion if I pulsate my fly, the light color is easy to see and works well with fish.

Effective Tactics for Lake Fishing As you come upon a lake, resist the temptation to fling the fly right away. Take 10 minutes to peruse the immediate area at ground level near the shore. A good trick for forcing this behavior is to arrive at the lake with the rod in the tube and the reel in the pack. Putting it together, lining the rod and selecting a fly to tie on gives you time to scan the area for clues. Look for cruising fish near shore. Most likely they will have a general cruising pattern that repeats every few minutes and as long as every ten minutes. A few fish will generally follow each other and in the same pattern, crossing a pod of a few more fish circulating in their own cruising pattern. These shoreline cruisers are opportunistic fish, looking for whatever food presents itself. Lead the cruising fish by four or five feet so as to not spook their cruising pattern. If you lead with a dry fly, keep still...more often than not the cruiser will spot your offering and at least do a drive-by to check it out. If it looks natural enough, the fish will eagerly take the fly. Strike with a gentle yet firm uplift of the rod and the excitement has begun! If you lead with a nymph, cast far enough in front of the fish to let the fly sink to the fish’s cruising level. About two or three feet before the fish gets to your fly, give it one small twitch and let it sit again. That will be enough to catch a fish’s attention for a closer look. If the fish doesn’t take your fly the first time around, don’t worry. That fish will be back if you didn’t spook it with an errant cast - that’s the beauty of cruising fish. While the fish is making his rounds, think about why the fish didn’t take. Is your leader to big? Do you have the right fly? Was your cast less-than-stealthy? Correct the situation and cast to the fish the next time it comes around. More often than not, any well-presented fly will gain a fish’s attention and a take. On rare occasion, you will come across some picky fish that are looking for a certain insect, size and color. These are well fed fish. You’ll know when this is the case - a fish or two will act interested in your offering, but turn away at the last moment. If this happens two or three times, then you should consider trying a different size and/or color. A good rule of thumb is to go smaller and darker. Not all cruising patterns follow the shoreline. Oftentimes, larger cruising fish will come in from the depths, make a swoop in the shallow littoral zone and head back toward the depths. These are prime candidates for a streamer cast out past the shallow area and left to sink beyond the shelf. Time the fish’s pattern and begin stripping the streamer towards shore as the fish is either going to or coming from to the depths.

Fishing Lake Inlets and Outlets Water flowing in a lake and out of a lake attracts trout for very different reasons. Typically, trout positioned at the mouth of an inlet or outlet stream are staged to eat. They are looking for a meal to be catered right to them by the current. In either case, they will take a fly. When fishing to trout in an inlet or outlet, use dead-drift stream techniques. Float an attractor dry fly with a small midge or Hare’s Ear 12”-18” under the dry; it’s a deadly combination. Another reason trout may be stacked in an inlet or outlet is to spawn. As discussed earlier, it is advisable to leave spawning fish alone. Find other fish to torment.

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Section III - Fishing in the Wilderness Area

High Altitude Fishing Tactics Dealing with Wind Every afternoon, you’ll experience some sort of wind. Mornings are usually calm and quite conducive to dry fly fishing on mirror-smooth water - a prime reason to get out early. But come midday, anabatic winds form which can create quite a ripple on a lake’s surface. Remember this - anabatic winds are your friend. We have witnessed too many times anglers leaving a lake when it gets windy - that’s when the fishing gets good! On summer and fall days, anabatic winds are created from the quickly warming lower altitude landscape. Those rising warmer air pockets carry insects en masse, mostly small terrestrials, up to higher altitude lakes. As the wind picks up during the day, small ripples to full-on waves might kick up on a lake. You can’t see them, but trout eagerly cruise just under the surface looking for blown-in treats. More advice for fishing lakes, including advanced sight fishing tactics, how to fish in light winds, strong winds and for finicky trout, can be found in this book’s companion “A Fly Fishing Guide to Rocky Mountain National Park,” by author Steve Schweitzer. Advanced tactics discussed in that book are certainly applicable to waters in IPWA.

Sight Fishing for Trout in High Altitude Lakes Section written by Landon Mayer, Colorado Guide, Author & Photographer

Sight fishing is one of the most intense experiences an angler can have. The most common sight fishing experience is pursuing the art of dry flies to fool trout that are visibly eating an adult food supply off the water's surface. The thrill of hunting trout will provide you with many rewards fishing both on the surface and below. This leads me to one of my favorite ways to sight fish in "still water encounters.” With a large number of reservoirs, lakes, and ponds throughout Colorado, many of these fishing paradises go unnoticed; especially in the high country where half the adventure for the day is the hike to reach the gold at the end of the rainbow. The difference with still waters at any elevation is in where the trout prefer to hold. In lower elevation and larger reservoirs, between six and nine thousand feet, trout will disperse as the weather and water warms producing great hatches. This can start as early as March and last through as late as November. For higher elevation lakes, the transition to warmer ice-free water is much later, June through September. Trout in high places will prefer the edge for the warmest water and easiest shot at active food supplies. This makes sight fishing on the edge one of the best ways to produce great results at higher elevation. Dry dropper rigs (hopper with a nymph below) are the best rigs to throw at cruising targets. It looks natural, and also presents a meal on top of the water as well as just below, where the trout will be looking to feed. With so many lakes lying in a bowl or cirque setting between peaks, one can literally sight fish 100 plus feet above the lakes edge. From there, one can see the cruising pattern of the trout and time when the best window is to approach the lakes’ edge without being seen. Once in position, remain low to the surface and wait for the chance at casting to a cruising target. With this tactic, one can be challenged all day with the art of sight fishing in high altitude lakes.

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Section IV Trout in the Wilderness Area

“Nature will bear the closest inspection. She invites us to lay our eye level with her smallest leaf, and take an insect view of its plain.” - Henry David Thoreau

OPPOSITE: A Colorado River cutthroat rises in front of the camera as author Mike Kruise fishes the opposite bank (middle center of picture). www.flyfishthepeaks.com

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Rainbow Trout (RBT) A member of the Salmon family, rainbow trout have an average life span of eight to 12 years. They average in size from eight to 24 inches. They sport silver bodies with brightly colored rainbow band that spans the entire length of the body and may vary in color depending on the water conditions and geographic drainage. Rainbows are native to the Pacific slope of north America and have been introduced on almost every continent. Some scientists purport over 100 varieties of rainbows including the more popular species the common Rainbow, Steelhead, Kamloops, Golden trout, Red-Band trout and Kamchatka rainbows in Russia. Rainbows are a spring time spawning fish usually starting their spawn in mid to late March and continuing into June. They feed heavily from ice-out until ice-in the late fall. Rainbows thrive on the rich the aquatic life in Colorado, which is needed to support the short growth cycles these fish endure.

Brown Trout (BNT) Brown trout are a very close relative of the Atlantic Salmon and are documented in nearly every U.S. state. They were first imported to the U.S. in 1883 into the Pere Marquette River (MI). They were documented in Colorado as early as 1903 by T.H. Bean. Brown trout average a life span of 10 years but can live up to 30-plus years. They range in size from eight inches to 36 inches and up to 20lbs The largest brown trout in IPWA can reach 20-24 inches. Brown trout are known for their beautiful spots, butter yellow and bronze brown sides. Males develop big hook jaws when full maturity is reached. Browns will start their spawn in early October and continue through December. Browns, unlike their cousin the rainbow, can tolerate warmer water temperatures. They love the excitement of the hunt as these veracious eaters prey on anything they can ingest. Due to their aggressive and territorial nature, they have been accused of reducing the native fish populations in many watersheds through out the US. 50

Section IV - Trout in the Wilderness Area

Trout in Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Brook Trout (BKT) The beauty of the brook trout is unmistakable with the white wormlike markings on its back to the bright orange fins with white leading edges. A rare mature mountain brookie can grow up to 18-20 inches with the most common size range in IPWA between six and 12 inches. The brook trout is a native to Canada and the eastern U.S. and was introduced to Colorado in 1872 by James Broadwell of Wisconsin. Well known in the fishing world as a prolific breeder, this fish out-spawns nay species. They have become the most common fish found in the Rocky Mountain region reaching maturity by their second year, however their life span is a short 4-5 years. They multiply so fast that they can be a detriment to other fish populations by exhausting the available food sources. They are opportunistic feeders and are not very selective. For this reason, they make for a good fly fishing starter fish for beginners.

Colorado River Cutthroat (CRC) Colorado River cutthroat is a beautiful trout with large spots distributed throughout the body increasing in density to the tail fin highlighted by the classic bright crimson stripe under the gill plate. Its chameleon-like ability to significantly change its degree of color during a spring spawn, makes it one of the most beautiful of the trout family. They range in size from eight inches to 20 inches, with a good chance to catch one 18 inches or more in IPWA. Cutthroat are eager feeders, and are fond of looking up to take bugs off the surface. Several agencies and organizations lobbied to place the Colorado River cutthroat on the endagered list in 1999. However, in 2007 the Fish and Wildlife Service determined it was not an endangered species and the ruling was reversed. The U.S. Forest Service did designate the Colorado River cutthroat as a sensitive species. www.flyfishthepeaks.com

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Lake Trout (LKT) Lake trout are native to northern North America. They can be considered a nuisance species in some cases due to their voracious appetite and propensity to devastate other fish populations (e.g. - Yellowstone Lake, WY). They are the largest of the chars, averaging 24-36 inches, reaching a whopping 50 inches and over 100 pounds. Lake trout in IPWA are smaller, with 24 to 26-inches being large. They prefer oxygen-rich, cold, deep lakes, as they prefer to live deep in the water column during the summer months. The best opportunity to catch a lake trout in IPWA is early in the summer, when they can be seen cruising randomly near the surface of the water, not necessarily near shore. A large olive or black streamer pattern is the primary fly

Splake (SPL) The splake is a hybrid cross of a lake trout and a brook trout. This very fast growing fish can reach lengths up to 16 inches within the first two years. In IPWA, the splake can reach 20 inches with the rare trophy reaching upwards of 24-26 inches. The splake has a forked tail, not as forked as the lake trout, but certainly more defined than the square tail of a brookie. The splake is considered sterile and generally does have reproductive capabilities. The splake has a longer life cycle than the brookie, attributing to their size potential. And because of its rare breeding the splake is typically controlled with targeted water-specific stocking efforts. A very strong and aggressive fish, the splake is fun to catch as they seek big morsels to eat, particularly in deeper water. Splake are eager to take streamers and nymphs just off of the bottom and occasionally will take larger dries (e.g., hoppers and Stimulators) on top. 52

Section IV - Trout in the Wilderness Area

Trout in Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Greenback Cutthroat (GBC) Recent scientific study reveals the genetics of the greenback cutthroat may not be pure and thus populations of the fish in Rocky Mountain National Park and Indian Peaks Wilderness area may not be genetically pure greenback cutthroat. For general purposes of discussion, anglers continue to refer to the fish as greenback cutthroat. Greenback cutthroat are often hard to distinguish from other cutthroat trout. As with all cutthroat, they have the namesake red slashes under the jaw along the throat line. In IPWA, greenbacks spawn essentially at ice-off, usually during mid-May through the end of June. In late run-off years, greenback can be found in spawning colors well into the month of July. Greenback cutthroat thrive best when there are no other fish species competing for food; they aren’t a particularly aggressive fish. They become out-competed for food by more aggressive species such as brook trout or cutthroat. Author Steve Schweitzer releases a small splake caught on a large hopper pattern well out from the shoreline. Don’t expect to see lake trout or splake close to the shoreline when they cruise near the surface. There are only two lakes in IPWA that contain splake: Crater Lake and Diamond Lake.

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Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Author Mike Kruise displays a healthy brook trout taken from one of his favorite Lakes in IPWA.

Trout in Lakes There are roughly 90 perennial lakes in IPWA. Only 81 are named. The remaining unnamed lakes are more aptly characterized as ponds and can be considered barren for fishing. They are too shallow to sustain fish year-round. Sixty-two percent (62%) of the lakes are known to contain some populations of year-round fish, either by stocking or by natural reproduction. By and large, generic native cutthroat roam the lake waters of IPWA, with nearly half (49%) containing them. You’ll often run into brook trout (23%) or Colorado River cutthroat (15%) as well. Indian Peaks is known for the larger brook trout than typical in RMNP. Some lakes, like Mitchell and Long Lakes, hold some high altitude brookies pushing 18 inches, but those are highly educated and wary fish. High altitude lakes offer the hiking angler a special reward. Indian Peaks Wilderness Area has more high altitude lakes containing fish than Rocky Mountain National Park. Indian Peaks has 46 lakes above 10,000 feet with fish while RMNP has 42 lakes over 10,000 feet high with fish. For more information on these lakes, see the Appendix page entitled Lakes Containing Fish, Sorted By Elevation. Table 1. - Trout Distribution in IPWA - Lakes

Lakes - Indian Peaks Wilderness Area Distribution of Trout Species by Map Area (n=81)

Map Area

Total lake surface acres

# of lakes barren

# of lakes with fish

Total Lakes

BKT

1

49

2

7

9

2

2

151

5

10

15

4

3

14

5

4

9

4

4

90

6

9

15

2

5

170

2

9

11

2

6

40

3

2

5

2

7 TOTALS

54

75

9

8

17

588

32

49

81

BNT

RBT

CRC

GBC

SPL

LKT

1

CUT 6

2

6 4 9

1

1

2

2

1

1

6 1

8 16

1

3

11

1

3

1

35

23%

1%

4%

15%

1%

4%

1%

49%

Section IV - Trout in the Wilderness Area

Trout in Lakes and Streams in IPWA

A typical stream cutthroat is 8”-12” long. If you catch one larger than a foot in a stream, consider it a trophy fish.

Trout in Creeks and Streams If you are hiking to a lake, chances are you’ll have to follow, cross or run into a creek or stream. Of a total 42 creeks and streams, 27 contain fish, representing 64%. Sixty-two percent (62%) of all fishable streams contain either brook trout or cutthroat, or both. Often times cutthroat and brook trout can be caught in the same stream, in the same section. While brown trout are prolific and wide-spread throughout the mountain west, only two streams in IPWA are known to have populations. This is consistent with the same scarcity in Rocky Mountain National Park. With exception of Middle St. Vrain Creek in Area 1, all rainbow trout can be found on the west side of the Continental Divide. In all streams with rainbows, you will also find cutthroat and/or brook trout. There are only eight streams that have exclusively one fish species in them, and they all contain Colorado River cutthroat. Table 2. - Trout Distribution in IPWA - Creeks and Streams

Creeks & Streams - Indian Peaks Wilderness Area Distribution of Trout Species by Map Area (n=42)

Map Area

Total flow miles

# of # of streams streams barren with fish

1

21

2

2

10

3 4

Total Streams

BKT

4

6

2

1

6

7

4

2

1

1

2

1

10

2

3

5

2

1

1

5

1

1

4

2

2

1

1

13

1

1

1

1

1

1

4/5

7

5

4

1 1

BNT

GBC

SPL

LKT

CUT 4 6

6

6 5

7

23

7

6

1

1

87

15

27

42

15 31%

6%

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CRC

1

6/7

TOTALS

RBT

3 1 2

1

1 1

1

1

1

5

3

6

9

13%

19%

0

0

0

15 31%

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Section V Destination Listings

"In years to come when I am asleep beneath the pines, thousands of families will find rest and hope in this park." - Enos Mills

OPPOSITE: July of each year marks the pinnacle of colorful flowers in the high country. It’s hard to beat the floral summer splendor of Indian Peaks Wilderness Area. www.flyfishthepeaks.com

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Indian Peaks Wilderness Area Fishing Zone Map

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Area 1 Coney Creek Coney Lake Upper Coney Lake Envy Lake Gibraltar Lake Little Gibraltar Lake Middle St. Vrain Creek Pony Lake Red Deer Lake Red Deer Lake Drainage

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Gibraltar Lake, Envy Lake

Reprinted with permission from Topo USA® 10.0. © DeLorme 2014

Trailhead: Trail Rating: Trail Overview

Buchanan Pass Trail at end of Middle St. Vrain Road çç - çççç

USGS Quad(s): BCZ:

Allenspark Isolation Peak Middle St. Vrain

Access to the St. Vrain Glacier Trail is best via an ATV or 4-wheel drive vehicle from the Middle St. Vrain Trailhead at Camp Dick parking area. From the trailhead, the Middle St. Vrain Road for OHVs is 3.8 miles to the Buchanan Pass Trail intersect. The alternate is to hike the same distance on the Buchanan Pass Trail on the north side of the Middle St. Vrain Creek from Camp Dick, making it a 17 mile round-trip. At the IPWA boundary, there are limited places to park an OHV, as no OHVs are allowed on the trail past the boundary. At the boundary, the trail starts as an old logging road and consistently climbs through scattered meadows and tall pine stands. About a mile and a quarter before Gibraltar Lake, the trail passes a series of unnamed ponds and a beautiful camping site; however, mosquitos are plentiful, so be prepared with bug dope. In another quarter mile, the trail fades in and out of scree, following the willow-choked and braided Middle St. Vrain drainage. While most maps suggest a formal trail for the last quarter mile, it is faint at best and off-trail safe travel is rule-of-thumb. The approach to Gibraltar Lake is the same for Envy Lake, but continue onward over the saddle to the east of Gibraltar for 2000 feet to Envy Lake. 60

Fishing Destinations - Area 1

Fishing Gibraltar Lake and Envy Lake Middle St. Vrain Creek The trail follows the creek closely for a majority of the hike and there is plenty of opportunity to jump off-trail and fish a stretch of the creek before moving on. Fishing is particularly good for brook trout below 10,500 feet in altitude and there is a good chance that one will not even make it to Gibraltar Lake if the fishing is good on the creek, as it usually is. As the creek gains altitude the brook trout are mixed and eventually replaced with generic cutthroat trout. A series of crystal-clear unnamed ponds (not marked on most maps) about a mile and a quarter from Gibraltar Lake marks the highest point for brook trout. The ponds are fed from area run-off and the drainage from Envy Lake. While less populous, cutthroat in the upper stretches are on the smallish size but show excellent coloration.

Little Gibraltar Lake and Gibraltar Lake

11,188 ft

The hefty off-trail hike to the Gibraltar Lakes will keep some away, but for those wanting adventure, the effort is rewarded. Like in the drainage below the lake, the fish are small but plentiful. The steep shores can be a challenge to navigate and cast to rising fish. Focus on fishing the transition between the limited littoral zones and deeper drop-offs for the cruising hungry fish. A dry-dropper is a good bet on this lake. Amy’s Ant and a generic searching nymph 18-24 inches below the dry, for example. Gibraltar Lake is the only lake in Indian Peaks Wilderness Area to be stocked with what was formerly considered pure Greenback cutthroat genetics (the species is listed here as Greenback cutthroat for fishing discussion, but is considered to be a hybrid cutthroat genetically). From the unnamed ponds 1.25 miles down trail, stay to the south side of the creek when the trail becomes faint and difficult to follow. The north side is more difficult to travel. LEFT: Middle St. Vrain Creek is one of the most beautiful creeks in all of IPWA, and a favorite of the authors. RIGHT: Author Mike Kruise displays a hungry ice-out Greenback cutthroat caught in Gibraltar Lake.

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Indian Peaks Wilderness Area Fishing Zone Map

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Area 2 Blue Lake Upper Blue Lake & Drainage Lake Isabelle Long Lake Mitchell Creek Mitchell Lakes South St. Vrain Creek Brainard Lake Recreation Area: (O u tside of IP W A B ou n dary)

Brainard Lake Moraine Lake Red Rock Lake Left Hand Reser voir Left Hand Creek South St. Vrain Creek (east of Brainard Lake)

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Mitchell Lake, Blue Lake

Reprinted with permission from Topo USA® 10.0. © DeLorme 2014

Trailhead: Trail Rating:

Mitchell Lake Trailhead çç - ççç

USGS Quad(s): BCZ:

Ward Four Lakes

Trail Overview The hike to Mitchell Lake and Blue Lake along Mitchell and Blue Lakes Trail is one of the most popular in IPWA due to its ease of access and proximity to the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. Expect to share the trail with many other day hikers and dog lovers. The trail itself is modest and well-defined, particularly to Mitchell Lake. From Mitchell Lake, the trail becomes somewhat more steep and rocky, but still an easy hike. The Mitchell Lake trailhead has parking for approximately 20-25 vehicles, so getting there early will save an additional ¼ mile one-way hike from the Brainard Lake parking overflow area, although the hike around Brainard Lake is picturesque and level. While the map above suggests a two mile hike to Blue Lake, signs near the trailhead indicate the hike is three miles to Blue Lake. It is the authors opinion that the hike is somewhere between two and three miles, but not more than three. It always has been a quick hike to Blue Lake, although never officially measured using GPS technology.

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Fishing Destinations - Area 2

Fishing Mitchell Lake and Blue Lake Mitchell Creek (below Mitchell Lake) The road from Brainard Lake to the Mitchell Lake trailhead crosses a fast and rapid section of Mitchell Creek, mostly un-fishable due to the steep grade of the river, but above the trailhead area, going up to Mitchell Lake, there are some stretches of fun pocket water laced with boulders where some fine cutthroat live. Below the trailhead, expect to find brook trout that most likely have come up from Brainard Lake. The willows hug the stream bank, making fishing challenging in spots, but the brook trout are generally eager to take a well-presented dry fly, such as a Royal Wulff, Humpy, Orange Asher or Para Adams.

Mitchell Lake

10,700 ft Mitchell Lake, and the surrounding pond to the northeast, is a relatively shallow meadow lake mostly inhabited by brook trout, although generic cutthroat have been surveyed. Late in the summer, brook trout rise to small terrestrials and midges. Even when the brookies aren’t rising, fishing a small nymph under a dry fly can easily catch cruisers. Odd as it may seem for a lake that has no measurable weed growth, a scud or damsel nymph under an attractor dry can be an alternative presentation that triggers strikes when nothing else seems to work.

Upper Blue Lake

11,847ft The traverse to Upper Blue Lake is quite steep over boulders and alpine grasses, gaining 520 feet over four-tenths of a mile. Follow the drainage into Blue Lake up to Upper Blue Lake for the most foolproof route. Upper Blue Lake will ice-out later later in July, being one of the highest lakes in IPWA. The effort up to the lake is worth the reward of larger than average cutthroat. It is semi-annually Hunter Umholtz fishes the inlet to Mitchell Lake stocked with native cutthroat.

Blue Lake

#2 below Blue Lake during a foggy morning.

11,311 ft Blue Lake is one of the most scenic of all lakes in IPWA and Rocky Mountain National Park (see panoramic next page). Sitting in a cirque surrounded by Pawnee Peaks, Paiute Peak and Mount Audubon, the large alpine lake is deep and cold, often not fully iced-out until well into July of each year. As such, fish any fly presentation deliberately slow. When the fish are rising, select a small midge or Griffith’s Gnat. When they aren’t, a slow-stripped dark wooly bugger is your best bet.

Blue Lake Drainage (upper Mitchell Creek) & Mitchell Lake #2 & #3 Fishing the Blue Lake drainage and Mitchell Lakes #2 and #3 can be productive fun for risers near the inlets and outlets. The ponds are shallow and usually don’t holdover fish from year to year. Thus, fish populations can be unpredictable. www.flyfishthepeaks.com

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Indian Peaks Wilderness Area Fishing Zone Map

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Areas 3 &4 Betty & Bob Lakes Devil’s Thumb Lake Jasper Creek Jasper Lake King Lake Lost Lake Middle Boulder Creek, South Fork Rainbow Lakes (T h e on ly series of lak es in A rea 3 )

Skyscraper Reser voir Skyscraper/Woodland Drainage Storm Lake Woodland Lake

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

King Lake, Betty & Bob Lakes, South Fork Middle Boulder Creek

Reprinted with permission from Topo USA® 10.0. © DeLorme 2014

Trailhead: Trail Rating:

Hessie Trailhead, follow King Lake Trail spur ççç - ççççç

USGS Quad(s): BCZ:

Nederland East Portal Middle Boulder

Trail Overview The shortest route to these three lakes is to take CR-81 out of Winter Park, CO to Corona Pass Road 149 to CR-80, which takes you to Rollins Pass and the Corona Trailhead on top of the Continental Divide. However, this is a 4-wheel road and nearly inaccessible much of the year. When open, using ATVs or off-road vehicles is your best bet; warning - don’t attempt taking a vehicle not suited for off-road use. The more common approach is to start at the Hessie Trailhead near the Eldora Ski Area and trek the 5+ miles to the three lakes area, taking the King Lake Trail spur, the southern-most trail in IPWA. This route offers you fishing on both streams and lakes. The trail traverses a mix of tall pines and open meadows offering spectacular unobstructed views of the valley flanked by Woodland Mountain to the south. The paths to Betty and Bob Lakes can be tricky to follow as they are faint in areas, but following the outflows from the lakes is an easy way to navigate. There are several small bodies of unnamed water north of King Lake that are barren. Lost Lake can be accessed via this hike and is described in the Skyscraper, Woodland and Lost Lake section of this book. 86

Fishing Destinations - Areas 3 & 4

Fishing King Lake, Betty & Bob Lakes, S. Fork Middle Boulder Creek South Fork Middle Boulder Creek The first mile of this creek from the Hessie trailhead is described in the Skyscraper, Woodland and Lost Lake section of this book. From the junction of Devil’s Thumb Trail, take the King Lake Trail spur to the south, which closely follows the remainder of the South Fork Middle Boulder Creek to its Betty Lake origins. One could get lost in time fishing the creek all the way up to the lakes, there is that much good water to explore. Brookies and cutthroat live harmoniously together in the same stretches of water. For much of the way along the trail, tall stands of evergreens and classic small pocket water characterize the creek as it follows steadily rising incline. About a mile before the lakes, the creek runs through a small open area and braids out. Not only do the brook trout call this area home, so do moose. King Lake is one of the deeper lakes in Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, reaching a maximum depth of 65 feet. Only about half of the shoreline offers really accessible fishing since the Continental Divide ridge line abruptly and steeply meets the western side of the lake.

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Indian Peaks Wilderness Area Fishing Zone Map

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Area 5 Banana Lake Columbine Lake Deep Lake Diamond Lake Upper Diamond Lake Lake Dorothy Lower Neva Lake Meadow Creek Meadow Creek Reser voir (ou tside of IP W A bou n dary)

North Fork Middle Boulder Creek

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Diamond & Upper Diamond Lakes, Banana Lake, Deep Lake

Reprinted with permission from Topo USA® 10.0. © DeLorme 2014

Trailhead: Trail Rating: Trail Overview

Fourth of July Trailhead çç - ççççç

USGS Quad(s): BCZ:

East Portal Monarch Lake Diamond Lake

This is an exemplary day hike in IPWA and thus is one of the most visited remote sites in IPWA. Getting to the Fourth of July trailhead will require patience and perseverance, not to mention sturdy shocks and good tires. County Road 130 from Nederland, CO whisks you past Eldora Ski area and through the minuscule town of Eldora, and soon after there the road forks. Take the right fork, County Road 111, a.k.a. Fourth of July Road. After the fork, the road becomes gravel and increasingly more difficult to navigate with a low-clearance vehicle. A high clearance SUV or truck is recommended. The trailhead is at the end of a four mile teeth clattering ride. Once on the trail, a few short stair-step sections are broken up by convenient flat sections weaving through gorgeous pine tree stands and heavily wooded areas. Most of the trail is shielded from sun and wind. There are plenty of designated camping spots along the trail and at Diamond Lake. The trail to Diamond Lake is modest, with no one section being too steep to make it a 4-hiker rating. The off-trail hikes to Deep and Upper Diamond Lakes demand a 5-hiker rating, particularly the trek to Deep Lake. Accessing Deep Lake, Upper Diamond Lake and Banana Lake is discussed in more detail in the following lake descriptions. 102

Fishing Destinations - Area 5

Fishing Diamond & Upper Diamond Lakes, Banana Lake, Deep Lake North Fork Middle Boulder Creek Along the entire drive up the bone-jarring ride on Fourth of July Road, the North Fork Middle Boulder Creek parallels the road. If you get a late start on the day and find the crowds thick and the parking spaces thin, pull over the first chance you have and take advantage of fishing a beautiful mountain stream of perfect size and suitable for all skill levels. Note that there are some private properties along the road. For the most part, private land and State land are clearly marked. During mid-summer, fishing a dry fly such as a caddis or floating ant or beetle is all that is needed for some small stream fun. Rainbow trout are rare in this creek; if you catch one, consider it a trophy fish.

Diamond Lake Drainage The outlet of Diamond Lake has classic pocket water, albeit small in size. Look closely for holding cutthroat and the occasional brook trout. The drainage quickly becomes too steep to fish comfortably, although primarily brook trout inhabit the stretch down to the confluence to the North Fork. Along the way, look for the large beautiful waterfall in the steep gradient section.

Diamond Lake

10,946 ft In the prime of summer, cruising cutthroat roam throughout the expansive flats present on much of the lake. At ice-out and in the fall, expect the fish to hover more closely to the drop-off edges, occasionally cruising in towards shore looking for blown-in insects. The eastern edge of the lake is the deepest, with the remaining lake shores having the most expansive littoral zones. The entire shoreline is accessible to the fly fisher on unmaintained foot paths. In low water years, the southwest section of the lake is rather shallow and can expose an old creek bed winding towards the deep middle. Diamond Lake is one of only two lakes in IPWA that has splake (Crater Lake on the East side of the Continental Divide being the other), although populations in Diamond Lake are small. The North Fork Middle Boulder Creek fishes best with an upstream cast targeting small pocket water and edges along the overgrown banks.

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Indian Peaks Wilderness Area Fishing Zone Map

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Area 6 Arapaho Creek Cascade Creek Crater Lake (aka Hyslop Lake) Mirror Lake

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Crater Lake (aka Hyslop Lake), Mirror Lake, Cascade Creek

Reprinted with permission from Topo USA® 10.0. © DeLorme 2014

Trailhead: Trail Rating:

Monarch Lake çç - çççç

USGS Quad(s):

Monarch Lake

BCZ:

Cascade Creek Crater Lake

Trail Overview Cascade Creek Trail is a very typical trail in Indian Peaks Wilderness, following a narrow canyon channel carved out by the parallel Cascade Creek. The sometimes narrow and rocky trail is partnered mostly with tall stands of pine. After the Arapaho Pass Trail spur, the trail winds through a few switchbacks before leveling off just prior to the Buchanan Pass Trail spur. After the trail spur, a bridge marks the confluence of Buchanan Creek and Cascade Creek, a good spot to refill water bottles with crisp, cold mountain run-off, filtered of course. Soon thereafter, you’ll start to see a series of beautiful waterfalls, for which Cascade Creek is known. These are not the Cascade falls. As the trail inclines another ¾ mile or so, you’ll come to a long wooden footbridge spanning a deep chasm where Cascade Creek runs. From that point for nearly ¾ mile is a series of four stately and impressive falls giving Cascade Creek its namesake. From the falls, the trail becomes more uneven and steep, making the trek to Crater Lake healthy exercise but worth it as you pass unparalleled beauty in the scenery and views to Mirror Lake and Crater Lake. Pawnee Lake over the ridge to the east is fishless. 114

Fishing Destinations - Area 6

Fishing Crater (Hyslop) Lake, Mirror Lake, Cascade Creek Cascade Creek Cascade Creek has many looks and personas. The lower section from the trailhead to the trail spur of Arapaho Pass Trail has primarily resident brook trout along with seasonal rainbow and browns that migrate upstream to spawn. From Arapaho Pass Trail to Buchanan Creek, Cascade Creek wanders through dense forest and the creek becomes smaller in places, but shaded, offering quality cool habitat for Colorado River cutthroat. About four and a quarter miles from the Monarch Trailhead, just after Cascade Falls, the creek bed meanders in an open area and offers good fishing for cutthroat. It’s another two steep miles from here to Crater Lake. Cascade Creek upstream of Mirror Lake has limited populations of fish.

Crater Lake (aka Hyslop Lake)

10,320 ft Crater Lake is arguably one of the most awe inspiring settings in all of Indian Peaks Wilderness. Its crystal clear aqua-green waters mirror the stark green tundra growth that carpets the surrounding mountainside landscape. While lake trout have not been officially stocked since the 1970s, some natural reproduction occurs. Some old stocks of brook trout have hybridized resulting in an unusual hybrid - splakes. (See a picture of a Crater Lake splake in Section IV - Trout in Indian Peaks Wilderness Area). The lake is well protected from the winds that develop each midday making the surface generally calm to fish. Terrestrials and larger attractor mayflies will catch Chad Goodson pauses by one of the four waterfalls that make up the the attention of the cruising Cascade Falls on Cascade Creek. cutthroat. The lake does not have much of a littoral zone, so casting 10-15 yards out from shore tends to keep a good distance between you and the wary fish.

Mirror Lake

10,308 ft Mirror Lake is small and rather shallow. It is suspected the sparse population of brook trout primarily come from Crater Lake upstream a hundred yards. The connecting stream between Mirror Lake and Crater Lake has some resident brook trout as does the outflow from Mirror Lake.

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Indian Peaks Wilderness Area Fishing Zone Map

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Area 7 Buchanan Creek Crawford Lake Gourd Lake & Drainage Island Lake & Drainage Long Lake, Hell Canyon Roaring Fork River Round Lake Stone Lake & Drainage Upper Lake Watanga Lake & Drainage

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A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area

Roaring Fork River, Lakes: Upper, Stone, Crawford, Long, Round

Reprinted with permission from Topo USA® 10.0. © DeLorme 2014

Trailhead: Trail Rating:

Roaring Fork Trailhead çççç - ççççç

USGS Quad(s): BCZ:

Shadow Mountain Isolation Peak Roaring Fork Hell Canyon

Trail Overview Take the Arapaho Bay Road from US 34 following the road around the south side of Lake Granby to the north end of Arapaho Bay to the Roaring Fork Trailhead. After a short stroll along an alluring flat section amongst tall aspen and pine, the Roaring Fork Trail gives a false impression of an easy hike. Within five minutes from the trailhead, the trail begins a steep uphill climb gaining 1,200 feet of altitude in only two-thirds of a mile. For the next 2.3 miles to the junction of Stone Lake Trail, the trail gains a modest 620 feet of elevation. From the junction of Stone Lake Trail, the trail ascends an even steeper 1,350 feet over the next one mile of trail. While Stone Lake is only 300 feet lower than the highest point in the trail, one must traverse up and down several times to the lake over the final 2-¼ miles. NOTE: this trail combination is not for the unconditioned and is not recommended as a day hike, unless you are confident you can manage an aggressive 13-mile round trip hike that includes 6.5 miles of uphill climbing. 122

Fishing Destinations - Area 7

Roaring Fork River, Lakes: Upper, Stone, Crawford, Long, Round Roaring Fork River The lower quarter mile of the river which dumps into Pete’s Cove and Arapaho Bay of Lake Granby contains some Colorado River cutthroat, but it is regarded as more of a fishery for migratory spawning rainbow and browns from Lake Granby. That is, when the water levels in the lake support fish moving upstream. Midway up the Roaring Fork Trail, the river takes on a classic mountain river look, with pockets and pools between stair-stepping falls. Some of the deeper pools can be home to 16-18 inch cutthroat, but expect an 8-10 inch cutthroat to be the norm.

Upper Lake

10,730 ft Upper Lake is nestled in a small valley head surrounded by Hiamovi Mountain to Upper Lake glows as sunshine breaks through after a the west, Cooper and Marten Peaks to the brief storm of sleet and rain in mid-summer. east and the Continental Divide to the north. The impressive size and massive surroundings make this lake majestic in its own right. The lake is stocked annually with Colorado River cutthroat as there is not sufficient habitat for spawning. The lake has several deeper channels, clearly visible on a sunny day. Fish will move around the lake using these channels as highways. The water is essentially the headwaters for all flowage to Stone Lake, Crawford Lake and Long Lake in Hell Canyon.

Stone Lake

10,649 ft Stone Lake, like Upper Lake, is nestled in a small valley head, just a ¼ mile below Upper Lake. The lake is unimpressively small, but has a large population of Colorado River This small stream near Stone Lake is abundant with cutthroat trout. How many fish can you spot in this picture?

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Effective Fly Patterns In addition to the 117 unique guide and local expert patterns found in the companion book, A Fly Fishing Guide to Rocky Mountain National Park, an additional 45 patterns are included in the following pages. These highly effective patterns were created by some of the Colorado Rocky Mountain region’s most creative fly tyers, including: E rin B lock F rank D rum m ond D aniel G alhardo G reg G arcia Joe Johnson B arbara L uneau John M ajerus T im N eering M ark R aym an Josh R ick ard S teve S chw eitzer D ick S hinton Jon S piegal Jay Z im m erm an

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Appendix Area Fly Shops Trailhead Information Trails Ranked By Difficulty Hatch Seasons Hatch Charts Lakes Containing Fish Creeks, Streams & Lakes in IPWA

OPPOSITE: Lake Isabelle is guarded by Shoshoni and Apache Peaks in the background. The silhouette of a hiker, backpack and fly rod with is of author Steve Schweitzer. www.flyfishthepeaks.com

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Appendix

Index A Altitude sickness 30 Amano, Katsutoshi 45 Anabatic winds 47 Apache Peak (ph) 141 Aquatic gear guidelines 39 Arapaho Bay 123 Arapaho Bay Road 122, 130 Arapaho Creek 108, 119 Arapaho Creek (ph) 119 Arapaho Glacier Trail 110 Arapaho Indians 16 Arapaho Pass 108, 109 Arapaho Pass Trail 16, 106, 108, 110, 114 Arapaho Pass Trail (ph) 109 Area Fly Shops 142

B Back country camping permits 22 backcountry cooking (ph) 23 Backpacking light (ph) 40 Baetis Emerger * 138 Banana Lake (ph) 105 Banksia Bug * 136 Barbie * 137 Beaverkill Ant * 135 Beetle Kill 27 Beetle X * 135 Betty Lake 88 Bley, Scott 3, 9 Block, Erin 3, 134 Blue Lake 72, 73, 111 Blue Lake (ph) 74 Blue Lake Drainage (upper Mitchell Creek) 73 Bob Lake 88 Brainard Gateway Trailhead 80 Brainard Lake 76, 81 Brainard Lake (ph) 83 Brainard Lake Recreation Area 19, 72, 80 Brook trout (illustration) 51 Brook trout (ph) 54, 65 Brown trout (illustration) 50 Buchanan Creek 114, 128 Buchanan Creek (ph) 129 Buchanan Pass Trail 64, 114, 128 www.flyfishthepeaks.com

* - fly pattern (ph) - photo

C C.D.C.B. * 135 Camp Dick 60 Caribou Consolidated Mining Company (ph) 16 Caribou Creek 91 Caribou Lake 106, 108, 118 Caribou Lake (ph) 109 Caribou Pass 107 Caribou Pass (ph) 107 Caribou Pass Trail 108 Caribou Trail 110 Cascade Creek 6, 114, 115 Cascade Creek (ph) 115, 116 Cascade Creek Trail 114, 128 Cascade Falls 115 Cascade Falls (ph) 115 Cherry-Limeade * 139 Clown Shoe Caddis * 134 Colorado Parks & Wildlife 36, 90 Colorado River cutthroat (illustration) 51 Colorado River cutthroat (ph) 49, 127, 131 Columbine Lake 107 Columbine Lake (ph) 107 Coney Creek 66, 67 Coney Creek (ph) 67 Coney Flats Trailhead 66 Coney Lake 66, 67 Coney Lake (ph) 69 Coney Lake Trail 66 Cooper Peak 123 Copper Caddis * 135 Coyote Park 109, 118 Crater Lake 103, 115 Crater Lake (ph) 21, 116 Crawford Lake 124 Crawford Lake (ph) 125 Creeks, Streams & Lakes in Indian Peaks Wilderness Area 149 Cruising fish, patterning and casting to 46 Cupcake Midge * 138 Curmudgeon Crumpler Cricket * 134 Cutthroat (ph) 55

D Deep Lake

104 155

A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area * - fly pattern (ph) - photo

Index Deep Lake (ph) Deer, Mule Deer, White-tailed Dehydration Devil’s Thumb Bypass Trail Devil’s Thumb Lake Devil’s Thumb Lake (ph) Devil’s Thumb Peak (ph) Devil’s Thumb Trail Diamond Lake Diamond Lake (ph) Diamond Lake Drainage Dickster Damsel * Dickster Hopper * Drummond, Frank

105 27 27 30 96 98 98 97 87, 93 103 105 103, 104 138 138 135-136

G Galhardo, Daniel 3, 44, 135 Galhardo, Daniel (ph) 41, 45 Garcia, Greg 134, 137 Giardiasis 31 Gibraltar Lake 60, 61, 64 Gibraltar Lake (ph) 61, 62 Global Fly Fisher, The (globalflyfisher.com) 40 Goodson, Chad 3 Goodson, Chad (ph) 94, 115 Gourd Lake 129 Gourd Lake (ph) 129 Gourd Lake Trail 128 Green Lake 65 Greenback cutthroat 61 Greenback cutthroat (illustration) 53 Greenback cutthroat (ph) 61

E Effective Fly Patterns Eldora Eldora Ski area Emergency response Envy Lake Envy Lake (ph) Errata and Etcetera Ethics in Fishing Ewert, Jon

133 102 86, 102 32 60, 63 62 6 38 3

H Harvesting fish Hatch Charts Hatch Seasons Hell Canyon Hell Canyon (ph) Hessie Trailhead Hiamovi Mountain Hiking gear recommendations Hiking plan Hi-Vis Caddis * Horseshoe Creek Hot Wire Caddis Emerger * Hot Wire Chirono * Hypothermia Hyslop Lake

F Fish stocking 37 Fish stocking (ph) 37 Fisheries management 36 Fishing hook removal 29 Fishing lake inlets and outlets 46 Fishing licenses and fees 38 Fishing Methods, High Altitude Creek, Stream & Rivers 41 Fishing Methods, Lakes 46 Flaming Moh * 139 Fly recommendations, general 40 Fly rod recommendations 39 Fourth of July Road 102 Fourth of July Trailhead 106, 110 Frostbite, frost nip 31

39 146, 147 145 123 126 86, 92, 96 123 24 32 135 90 138 137 31 115

I I.O.B.O. * Ice Blue Midge * Ishigaki Kebari * Island Lake

136 138 135 128, 129

J James Peak Wilderness Area 156

16, 19

Index * - fly pattern (ph) - photo

Index Jasper Creek 93 Jasper Creek (ph) 98 Jasper Creek (upper section above Devil’s Thumb Bypass Trail) 97 Jasper Lake 97 Jasper Lake (ph) 98 Joe’s Tungsten Pteronarcys * 136 John’s Skinny Nelson * 137 Johnson, Joe 3, 134, 136, 138 Junco Lake Trailhead 106

K Key to symbols and icons 7 King Lake 88 King Lake (ph) 87 King Lake Trail 86, 88 Kruise, Mike 8 Kruise, Mike (ph) 9, 35, 43, 49, 61, 62, 88, 94, 125, 131 Kruise, Vickie 3

L Lady You * Lake Dorothy Lake Dorothy (ph) Lake Granby Lake Isabelle Lake Isabelle (ph) Lake trout (illustration) Lakes Containing Fish Langworthy, Cortland LeaderCalc Leaders Leave no trace Left Hand Creek Left Hand Reservoir Lightning Lightning Larvae * Lime Trude * Little Gibraltar Lake Long Lake Long Lake (Hell Canyon) Long Lake (ph) Lost Lake Lower Neva Lake Lower Neva Lake (ph) www.flyfishthepeaks.com

139 107, 109, 110 25, 111 119, 122, 130 78 78, 141 52 148 3 40 40 38 83 82 27 136 139 61 77 124 77, 127 95 111 111

Luneau, Barb Luneau, Barbara

137 137

M Majerus, John 135-138 Map of Brainard Lake Recreation Area Summer 12 Map of Brainard Lake Recreation Area Winter 13 Map of Indian Peaks Wilderness Area 10 Marten Peak 123 Mayer, Landon 3, 47 Meadow Creek 107 Meadow Creek Reservoir 106, 107 Meadow Creek Road 106 Middle St. Vrain Creek 61 Middle St. Vrain Creek (ph) 15, 61 Middle St. Vrain Creek (ph, front cover) 2 Middle St. Vrain Road 60, 64 Middle St. Vrain Road, OHV use (ph) 33 Mills, Enos 16 Mini Hot * 134 Mini Hot Green * 134 Mini Hot Purple *' 134 Mini Hot Tan * 134 Mini Hot Yellow * 134 Mirror Lake 115 Mirror Lake (ph) 116 Mitchell Creek (below Mitchell Lake) 73 Mitchell Lake 72, 73 Mitchell Lake #2 & #3 73 Mitchell Lake #2 (ph) 73 Mojo Midge * 139 Monarch Lake 108, 118, 119 Monarch Lake Trailhead 118 Monarch Trailhead 115 Moraine Lake 81 Mother’s Day Caddis * 134 Mount Achonee (ph) 116

N National Park Service 17 National Wilderness Preservation System 17 Neering, Tim 135, 139 New Zealand Mud Snails 39 Niwot Cutoff Trail 76 157

A Fly Fishing Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area * - fly pattern (ph) - photo

Index Niwot Ridge (ph) 77 North Fork Middle Boulder Creek 103, 110, 111

O Off Highway Vehicle (OHV, 4WD) Use 32 Oki Kebari (ph) 45 Oki Kebari * 135 Orange Aid * 137

P ParaAdams * Park Entrances & Fees Patterning, casting to cruising fish Pawnee Campground Pawnee Lake Periscope Callibaetis * Pete’s Cove Pine beetle Pony Lake Possession limits Preparedness, hiking Puterbaugh Sallie *

139 19 46 19 114 138 123 27 66, 67 38 32 135

R R’s Red * Rainbow Lakes Rainbow Lakes (ph) Rainbow Lakes Drainage Rainbow trout (illustration) Rainbow Warrior * Rayman, Mark Red Deer Creek Red Deer Lake Red Deer Lake (ph) Red Quill * Red Rock Lake Red Rock Lake (ph) Redds, spawning Regulations, general Regulations, motorized vehicles Regulations, pack stock Regulations, pets Rickard, Josh Rickard, Josh (ph) 158

137 90 91 91 50 139 135, 138 65 64, 65 65 135 81 81 39 24 23 23 23 3, 137, 139 78

Roaring Fork River Rojo Midge Black * Rojo Midge Chartreuse * Rojo Midge Red * Round Lake Round Lake (ph)

123 137 137 137 125 126

S Sailboat Trico Spinner * 134 Schweitzer, Steve 9, 139 Schweitzer, Steve (ph) 8, 33, 53, 126, 141 Schweitzer, Steve (ph, front cover) 2 Shampow PMD * 136 Shamwow PMD * 136 Shinton, Dick 3, 138, 139 Shoshoni Peak 78 Shoshoni Peak (ph) 141 Sight fishing 47 Silly Juan * 139 Skaw, Jeremy (ph) 37 Skyscraper Drainage 95 Skyscraper Lake (ph) 94 Skyscraper Lake/Reservoir 95 Skyscraper Reservoir (ph) 95 South Fork Jasper Creek 93 South Fork Middle Boulder Creek 87, 92, 97 South Fork Middle Boulder Creek (ph) 88 South St. Vrain Creek (below Long Lake) 76 South St. Vrain Creek (between Long Lake and Lake Isabelle) 78 South St. Vrain Creek (east of Brainard Lake) 83 South St. Vrain Creek (ph) 78 Spawning fish 39 Special regulations 38 Spiegel, John 136, 138 Splake 103 Splake (illustration) 52 Splake (ph) 53 St. Vrain Glacier Trail 60 StayTheTrail.org 33 Stewardship 25, 38 Stone Lake 123 Stone Lake drainage to Crawford Lake 124 Stone Lake Trail 122, 125 Stone Lake Trail (ph) 124 Storm Lake 98

Index * - fly pattern (ph) - photo

Index Storm Lake (ph) Swigle, Ben Swigle, Ben (ph)

97 3 25

T Tabou Stone * 136 Takahashi, Rick 3 Tarheel Caddis Nymph * 139 Tenkara 44 Tenkara (ph) 41 Tenkara fishing 44 Ticks, Black-legged 27 Ticks, Rocky Mountain 27 Todd, Bob (ph) 36 Tracy, Mark 3, 137, 139 Trail travel time, underestimating 27 Trailhead information 143 Trails Ranked by Difficulty 144 Translucent Scud * 136 Trout in Creeks and Streams 55 Trout in Lakes 54 Turkey Baster Baetis Emerger * 137

W Watanga Creek Watanga Lake Watanga Lake (ph) Watanga Lake Trail Weather in IPWA Wee Wooly Caddis * Whirling disease Wilderness Act of 1964 Woodland Lake Woodland Lake (ph) Woodland Lake Trail Woodland Mountain (ph)

131 131 131 125 26 136 39 17 93 94 93 95

Y Yaeger, Liz Yoosta B Emerger *

3 138

Z Zimmerman, Jay

134, 136

U U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service 17 U.S. Forest Service 17 Umholtz, Hunter 3 Umholtz, Hunter (ph) 73, 131 Umholtz, Renee 3 United States Forest Service 36 Upper Blue Lake 73 Upper Blue Lake (ph) 75 Upper Coney Lake 66, 67 Upper Coney Lake (ph) 68 Upper Diamond Lake 104 Upper Diamond Lake (ph) 105 Upper Lake 123 Upper Lake (ph) 123 Upper Neva Lake 110 USDA Forest Service, Boulder Ranger District 22 USDA Forest Service, Estes Park Office 22 USDA Forest Service, Sulphur Ranger District 22 Using the Trail Maps and Profiles 7

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