Get ready for a slice of Colorado heaven with South Park Trout Guides. This 4-hour trip is the perfect mix of world-class fishing and jaw-dropping scenery. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, Tom Hillmann's got you covered. We'll hit up some of the best spots around – Dream Stream, Badger Basin, you name it – all while surrounded by those famous Rocky Mountain views. And the best part? We take care of all the gear, so you can focus on reeling in the big one and soaking up those wide-open Colorado skies.
Picture this: you're standing knee-deep in crystal-clear water, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and rolling meadows. That's just another day at the office for us here in Colorado. We'll spend our time targeting Rainbow and Brown Trout in some of the state's most picturesque waters. From the meandering Dream Stream to the vast Spinney Mountain Reservoir, each spot offers its own unique challenge and charm. Don't worry if you're new to this – Tom's got a keen eye for spotting the perfect fishing holes and will have you casting like a pro in no time.
We keep things simple but effective on this trip. You'll get hands-on experience with both fly fishing and spin casting, depending on what's working best that day. We might start with some dry fly action if the fish are rising, or switch to nymphing if they're hanging out deeper. The terrain varies from easy-access shorelines to gentle wading spots, so it's suitable for most fitness levels. And remember, half the battle is reading the water – Tom will show you how to spot those tell-tale ripples and eddies where the big ones like to hide.
Colorado's waters have been on fire lately. We've been seeing some hefty Rainbow Trout coming out of Antero Reservoir, with a few pushing the 20-inch mark. Over at Tarryall, the Brown Trout have been putting up a heck of a fight, especially during the evening hatch. But the real showstopper? The Dream Stream section of the South Platte. When conditions are right, you might just land the trout of a lifetime here – we're talking about fish that'll make you forget all about those "big fish" stories you've heard before.
Rainbow Trout are the crown jewels of Colorado's waters. Known for their acrobatic fights and stunning colors, these beauties can range from 12 to 20+ inches in our fishing spots. They love to hang out in riffles and runs, often sipping insects right off the surface. Spring and fall are prime time for Rainbows, but honestly, there's no bad time to chase these guys. They're a blast on light tackle and will test your skills whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro.
Brown Trout, on the other hand, are the clever, elusive trophies that keep anglers coming back for more. These guys are the strong, silent type – they prefer deeper pools and undercut banks. Browns in Colorado can grow to impressive sizes, with some monsters pushing 25 inches or more. They're most active during low light conditions, so early mornings and evenings are your best bet. Landing a big Brown is like winning the lottery – it takes patience, skill, and a bit of luck, but man, is it worth it when it all comes together.
It's not just about the fish – though they're a pretty big draw. It's about that moment when you're standing in the river, surrounded by nature's finest work, and everything just clicks. Maybe it's the way the light hits the water as you make that perfect cast. Or the rush of adrenaline when a big trout rises to your fly. Our guests love the blend of action and tranquility that comes with fishing these waters. Plus, with Tom's local knowledge, you're not just fishing – you're getting an insider's tour of some of Colorado's best-kept secrets.
Look, we could go on all day about how great this trip is, but nothing beats experiencing it for yourself. Whether you're looking to introduce the kids to fishing, escape the office grind for a few hours, or just want to see what all the fuss is about, this 4-hour scenic trip hits all the right notes. Tom's calendar fills up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your spot. Remember, good things come to those who bait... er, wait. But the best things come to those who book early. Give us a shout, and let's get you out on the water for some of the best trout fishing Colorado has to offer. Trust us, your future self will thank you.
Brown trout are a real treat to catch here in Colorado. These fish typically range from 8-24 inches, with some monsters pushing 30+ inches in our bigger waters. You'll find them lurking in deep pools, near undercut banks, or tucked behind boulders in faster runs. They love cold, clear streams but can adapt to warmer waters too. Fall is prime time as browns get aggressive before spawning. Anglers love targeting them for their hard-fighting spirit and beautiful golden-brown coloration with red spots. As for eating, they're tasty but many folks practice catch-and-release to preserve the fishery. If you're after a big brown, try tossing large streamers near cover during low light conditions. And here's a local tip - when nymphing, don't be afraid to go deep and slow in those deeper runs. Browns often hold close to the bottom waiting to ambush prey.
Rainbow trout are the bread and butter of Colorado fishing. Most run 8-20 inches, but trophy fish over 5 pounds aren't unheard of. You'll spot them in riffles, runs, and pools of our mountain streams and lakes. They thrive in cool, oxygen-rich waters around 55-65°F. Spring and fall are excellent seasons, but you can catch them year-round. Rainbows are known for their acrobatic fights and those signature pink-red stripes along their sides. Anglers love chasing them for their accessibility and the beautiful settings they inhabit. As for eating, they've got a mild, slightly nutty flavor that's hard to beat when fresh-caught. To up your odds, try drifting small nymphs under an indicator through likely holding spots. And here's a local secret - on calm evenings, look for rising fish sipping tiny midges off the surface. A well-presented dry fly can lead to some exciting action.