Fly Fishing for Greenback Cutthroat Trout
Hot Spots in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Aug 20, 2009
By the 1930s the Greenback Cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki stomias) were pressured to near extinction. However, the State of Colorado, through hatchery programs and protecting existing habitats, has helped bring a single pocket of this species found in Rocky Mountain National Park back to life.
Today, Rocky Mountain National Park is the Greenback's primary home. They thrive in the park's numerous small streams and lakes where they remain heavily protected. The entire park serves as a refuge for the Greenback, though fishing for this "threatened" species is legal and challenging.
Greenback Trout in the Roaring River
Below Lawn and Big Crystal lakes, the Roaring River cuts through the east side of the park's boulder-strewn, sediment layers. These boulders create huge pockets in the river, behind which Greenbacks love to hide and feed.
Hike up the Roaring River Trail (6.2 miles, one-way) and drop in wherever possible. The trail is considered moderately strenuous because it's a constant ascending climb from 8,540' to 10,987' with a net elevation gain of 2,447'. The trail is a bit rocky in places and the riverbank is unstable, so step carefully, and be cautious where the trail is close to the water's edge.
The best fishing on the river for bigger trout is the half mile of stream below the Lawn Lake dam, so expect to spend a full day hiking and fishing. Or, plan on spending several days if backpacking is possible. Just be sure to visit the Ranger Station in the Park for back country permits and campsite reservations if this is the plan.
There may not be many visible rises. Just throw Royal Wulffs, Lime Trudes and Yellow Humpies in sizes 14 - 18 in fishy-looking water. They'll find them irresistible.
Upstream, hopper patterns are producers of strikes as well. Find the slowest water (like pools, pockets and bends) with direct sun and fish them from about ten to fifteen feet behind or from the side. Approach with stealth and choose 6X tippet on relatively short leaders. Crouching and crawling may help too since this water is so clear.
Fishing in Lawn Lake, Colorado
Six miles up the Roaring River trail anglers will find the spectacular sight of Lawn Lake. At under 20 acres, it's small enough to fish around the entire lake from its manageable banks. A 3-5wt. rod with floating line and 7' to 9' leaders and 5X tippet will produce exhilarating results.
It's unnecessary to fish with a multitude of patterns, though Greenbacks will be duped by nearly anything presented well. Try a tan Charlie's Hopper, #16 Royal Wulff, or a #12 Royal Stimulator. Cast to structure or float them over the ghostly, submerged boulders which will be easily visible with polarized lenses.
Trout in Lawn Lake will typically rise very slowly to motionless flies, open their mouths, and subtly take them underwater. Wait momentarily to set the hook, then bring the trout to hand quickly and skillfully as not to overwork the fish.
All Greenback trout must be returned to the water immediately alive and unharmed, so fish with barbless hooks, and use a net.
Rocky Mountain National Park offers many lakes and rivers to fish for the rare and brilliantly-colored Greenback Cutthroat trout -- the state fish of Colorado, with the Roaring River and Lawn Lake providing magnificent opportunities to net these vibrantly-colored beauties. Greenbacks are special! Take a hike and accept the challenge of catching a true American rarity.
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