Pikes Peak Region Trail Finder

By JON KLEIS

The Pueblo tailwater is an enigma.  The "steel city" that the Arkansas River runs through appears rugged and dirty, and yet it is home to some large, healthy, and powerful trout.  When most people think of flyfishing they conjure images of 11 Mile Canyon.  Beautiful clean water surrounded by pine trees and large boulders with eagles soaring over head, and then they feel a sense of freedom brought about by the idea of having complete solitude in the wilderness.  You will find none of that below Pueblo.

What you will find are crowds, dirt, dirty smelling water, and... big fish.  Inspite of fishing pressure from weekend warriors the trout by the Nature Center will still fall victim to large flies.  Compared to Deckers or 11 Mile Canyon where using flies no larger than the tip of a pen is the norm.  Where down by the Nature Center it is still possible to bring fish to the net using large Stonefly imitations such as the "Tungsten Twenty Incher" or a "Pats Rubber Legged Stonefly".  The same winter techniques used for South Platte Tailwater's apply here with the exception of the added ability to use streamers.  Long leaders and enough weight to stay in close to the bottom are required. 

During colder days when the flows are low look for fish to stack up in slow deep runs and pools.  Bugs that can be found by the Nature Center during the winter months are: Golden Stoneflies, Caddis Larva, Baetis aka Blue Winged Olives, Annelids aka worms, and Midges.  Imitations of any of these bugs dead drifted in front of a fish will get you results.  Rumor has it that if you know where to look you can find other fish species by the nature center such as the Common Carp, Smallmouth Bass, and Walleye, all of which will attack large nymphs and streamers which just adds to the mystique of this fishery.  

The Nature Center is really easy to find if you're interested in trying your hand at urban flyfishing.  Take I-25 south to the 101 exit towards highway 50.  Take highway 50 west to Pueblo Blvd and go left.  Take Pueblo blvd to 11th street and go right until you reach the Nature Center.  You will see the Arkansas River right behind the center.  You can find a map and these directions on www.anglerscovey.com.  There is a parking fee so bring 3 dollars.   A large portion of the trails in the area are paved and the Nature Center itself has a great restaurant overlooking the river.   For Questions or to schedule me for a guided trip you can send me and email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .     

Thanks and Tight Lines!    

Jon Kleis

www.coloradoflyfisher.blogspot.com