03-23-2011, 11:10 AM
STERLING - North Sterling Reservoir is ice free and the shore fishing season is off to a successful start. The construction project in the spillway and along the dam is complete, so anglers will be able to access many early season hot spots, such as the dam and South Boat Ramp areas.
The reservoir will not open to boating until April 15, due to budget limitations, but shore fishing will begin to pick up now that the ice is gone.<br />
Trout have been caught along the north end of the dam and along Balanced Rock using small jigs or power bait. The inlet is available now and anglers should start seeing catfish and wipers moving into the inlet for the spring run. The current, as well as the warmer water temperatures, draw shad and game fish into the inlet in the spring and can provide excellent fishing.<br />
The best method for catching catfish is using fresh cut shad while green mussel typically is best for wiper. Anglers may find a few dead shad along the shore to use for bait. Lures such as jigs, spoons, or spinners that can be worked slowly can also produce wipers.<br />
Early season campers will find the Elks Campground is open year around and the Inlet Grove Campground will open May 1.<br />
Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado State Parks is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state's favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us.
The reservoir will not open to boating until April 15, due to budget limitations, but shore fishing will begin to pick up now that the ice is gone.<br />
Trout have been caught along the north end of the dam and along Balanced Rock using small jigs or power bait. The inlet is available now and anglers should start seeing catfish and wipers moving into the inlet for the spring run. The current, as well as the warmer water temperatures, draw shad and game fish into the inlet in the spring and can provide excellent fishing.<br />
The best method for catching catfish is using fresh cut shad while green mussel typically is best for wiper. Anglers may find a few dead shad along the shore to use for bait. Lures such as jigs, spoons, or spinners that can be worked slowly can also produce wipers.<br />
Early season campers will find the Elks Campground is open year around and the Inlet Grove Campground will open May 1.<br />
Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado State Parks is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state's favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us.