COLORADO 2010-09-27
“ It was a long way to go fro some trout fishing !”
Well yes it is, some 26 hours from our home in Yorkshire but from the moment we were met by Buzz and Rose Cox ( and Princeton their Yoda look a like dog ) at the K-T Ranch we knew that we were in for a very special holiday.
Buzz described recently in a fishing magazine as a “ quiet and taciturn man “ could have been mistaken for a member of a ‘60s rock band ( complete with chromium Harley Davidson parked in the garage ) but he proved to be a superb guide and an extremely amiable and humorous companion. Within minutes of entering the White River with it’s fast water rifles and eddies, tying on a “Chubby Chernobyl “ ( which resembled a small surf board with half a dead sheep tied to it ) I was landing my first substantial Rainbow, followed by Brown, Cutbow and the especially lovely Cutthroat trout.
During the next 10 days Pam and I caught many fish up to 24” on Hoppers, Nymphs and Streamers ( the latter used in cloudy conditions which meant they were rarely used ). The trout were supplemented by White fish ( a grayling look alike without the extended dorsal fin ) and an unusual Flannelmouth.
In addition to the White River we had access to some much smaller spring fed creeks which Buzz has lovingly developed which provided sight fishing opportunities. The cattle upstream clouded the water whilst we were staying but we have to remember this is essentially ranching country !
We also took the chance to do fish the Colorado river a couple of times in a float boat. This was guided by Dustin Harcourt again a very able and experienced river guide. We caught many fish ( and had lots of laughs) mainly by nymphing the edges of some fast water ably assisted by some expert boatmanship in a very comfortable boat.
All of the fish caught were wild, fully finned and in superb condition a great test for our 4 and 5 weight outfits and a great testament to the conditions found in the rivers. I have never seen such abundant food resources clinging to every single rock and boulder.
At the K-T ranch it was not all fishing Pam managed to be invited on a cattle round up ( complete with two very real and charming cowboys) and went for some horse rides, the scenery and sky in Colorado is breathtaking especially seen from horse back at 9000 feet. We also took part in some Elk stalking and together with the surrounding wildlife it was a real privilege to see this country through the eyes of the locals.
However the most important part of the K-T is Rose. She is a most welcoming, courteous and charming lady making our stay and mealtimes especially memorable. Thank you.
K-T is part of a larger business including the main ranch at High Lonesome some 2 hours drive away were we spent the last few days of our visit. High Lonesome is run more as a dude ranch providing fishing, shooting, riding , communal dining and good food.
The fishing is on clear beaver ponds, some man made. We were expertly guided by Steve Loshbaugh ( another great companion ) all the trout species previously caught were there plus in addition some beautiful Brook trout. Once again fish readily took dry flies and small nymphs and there really were some monster fish. Pam landed a Rainbow of 25”+ ( on an English Daddy Longlegs ) and at dinner that night was presented with her pin as a member of the 25” club (up to then only 8 members on the board she being the only female) This was followed the next night by both of us receiving membership of the “ Grand Slam “ club (again only 1 member previously shown) so maybe the fishing wasn’t that easy!
Colorado was a great experience for us both. The weather and scenery far exceeded our expectations. The fishing and the people were superb, it may be a long way to go for trout but we can’t wait for our visit next year.
Well done Mat for finding and setting up a really great and special trip!!
Alan and Pam.
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