December 25, 2014

Flow: 97

Water Temp: 35-38

Happy Holidays from all of us at Steel City Anglers. It’s been another stellar year that gives us a lot to be thankful for. We got the water we needed and the lake is already higher than last year’s peak. Our fishery had a break from the long hot summers that had plagued us through the drought. Improvements to the river have added more holding water and spread the trout out. Our biggest blessing has been, as always, our exceptional guests and fans. It’s a rarity anymore to walk the banks and not meet someone out there. Thank you for making us the top dogs (sorry Winston) of the tailwater of the most fished river in the country.

Last weekend we did a little follow up fishing with one of my favorite repeat pairs and Frostbite Fish-Off up-and-comers along with exploring the river with friends not seen in a long time. In preparation for the tournament we’ve been exploring the river beat by beat to ensure that each can score four in a three hour segment. So far it’s been easy enough but this young man is doing it in twenty minutes and I say “Do that again, bow bow bow”. As I write this I’m listening to the Blues Brothers’ “Messin’ with the Kid” on vintage vinyl (thanks Phil).

The Frostbite Fish-Off is shaping up nicely thanks to the massive prize packages from team Scott-Costa. Teams are full but we are still in need of volunteers to measure fish and enforce the rules. There will be great food and goodies for your help. Training is 6:00 PM, Thursday, January 8^th at Jones Healy Realtors; 119 W. 6th St., Pueblo. This is going to be our best event yet.

Water clarity has improved even more and winter bugs are producing big trout along with the stockers. Cream midges, RS2’s and smaller copper johns are getting the hit. Look for subtle takes but don’t mess your waders when your indicator charges upstream. That reminds me, I better go check mine.

Tight lines, Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukah, Joyful Kwanzaa, Merry Boxing Day, Bark Bark,

Ben, Lou, Diamond and the Arkansas River