4-18-2013 An Old Friend Revisited

I headed up to Mary Jane for the annual end of year party with my department from Eldora. I had already planned on leaving early (around 1:00) well in advance of the party. I prefer to sneak out and go fishing. I did this last year, and it worked out like a charm (see 'My Blue Heaven' post).

This year, the weather was horrible. It was 6 degrees all day in the parking lot at the Jane, and by 11:00 a.m., I already had a great beer buzz going. Knowing that there was trout in store, I quit drinking. By 1:00 p.m., on the dot might I say, I was sober enough to leave. Don't freak out; I had 4 beers over the course of 5 hours. I was fine!!

I drove towards the original destination: the mighty Colorado. I feared it would be too cold all day and by the time I got to Granby, my senses got the best of me and I turned around. Coming down Berthoud, I wished that there was less snow as there is some good fishing around Empire. But not the case today. So I turned off US 40 and onto the big 7-0 East. With the time moving along faster than I like. I shot straight for the obvious "save my day, I just want to catch a fish spot". Clear Creek.

Good ole' Clear Creek. You all remember. The one that leads to the really gross beer plant...the one that we keep spilling fuel and oil into...the one that alot of us (myself included) have abandoned. Yep. That Clear Creek. Well it had been probably 3 years since I (personally) fished Clear Creek (I recall) and that is a shame. I have always liked this river. Not once has it ever been too busy for my personal preference, never a long drive, there is always a great chance at a Grand Slam, and the fishing is always (usually) pretty good.

But yes, I too, have abandoned it. There was a truck fuel spill a few years (2 years?) back and it was right at my spot, so I was bummed and didn't go back. Still haven't gone to that spot but might now. I fished way low in the canyon. Take 1 more turn and your on Hwy. 93 to Golden.  Just trying to be consciouse of water temp plus I figure these trout will take better (to harsh environment) so I thought it would be a good indicator of the quality of the fishery.

Well, I must say, I was impressed. I only fished for an hour or so and managed to fool a handful even though I lost a few before I landed em'. The ones I did catch...great fish. Real typical of what I have seen in here in the past. Clean, healthy, proportionate.

Good News. Happy Angler... Sometimes, it pays to see old friends.
Fished with an olive tail for the entire time. It worked. Try it.
Here's some pics:



Note-The sun came out by the time I got over the divide and into the canyon. Beautiful day.

Tight Lines-