A Line and a Pole in Leadville Today

Attention Leadville Anglers! FREE Fishing Weekend

Leadville children and their families have been getting outside and enjoying all of the incredible recreational opportunities that Lake County has to offer for years. In fact, enjoying the great outdoors is something that has been passed down from generation to generation, and shared with newcomers in an enthusiastic manner. After all, who else is going to tell you where the fish are biting?!

So listen up all you anglers and fly-fishing fanatics it’s time to grab the poles, and pack up the family for a day out by the water.  And what better time than this weekend because the Colorado Parks and Wildlife is inviting anglers of all ages to participate in its annual Free Fishing Weekend: June 1-2. The free fishing weekend is a great way to get outside with family and friends and take advantage of Colorado’s extensive opportunities to fish for a myriad of cold and warm water fish species.

Never fished before? Don’t worry, the Colorado Outdoors “Quick Tips” video will show you the basics to setting up a rod.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife reminds the public that although a license is not required on Free Fishing Weekend, all other rules and regulations will apply. Anglers should consult the Colorado Fishing Brochure for specific regulations and restrictions.

Last year over one million fishing licenses were sold in Colorado. The sale of fishing licenses allows CPW to maintain and conserve fish habitat that promotes better fishing in Colorado.?

If you decide that the FREE fishing weekend made you a caster for life, then you can pick up an official license at the following local outlets: Twin Lakes General Store, Sugar Loafin Campground, Saturday’s Mercantile on Hwy 24 south of Leadville and of course, Colorado Fly Fishing Guides located downtown.

Fishing in Colorado means the opportunity to land some 35 species of both warm- and cold-water fish. You can fish for the famed rainbow trout in a cool Rocky Mountain stream or troll for walleye on a sunny reservoir. And Colorado offers everything in between, too. There are 6,000 miles of streams and more than 2,000 lakes and reservoirs to choose from. Which one is your favorite? Or maybe you need to find a new fishing hole? Then check out the new interactive Colorado Fishing Atlas map.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife produces a weekly fishing report that includes information about fishing conditions and stocking activity around the state, fishing events and a fishing atlas detailing fishing opportunities. Learn more: CLICK HERE.

Leadville Fish Hatchery & Nature Trail

Of course, if you live in Leadville Today then you’ve probably been to the Leadville National Fish Hatchery, located off Hwy 300, south of town. While there is no fishing at the facility, it is a favorite among locals and visitors for all things “fish-y.” From how they incubate and hatch the fish eggs to the process of stocking the rivers and lakes, the hatchery is an educational, fun way to introduce children to the gilled, underwater world. And the facility’s Nature Trail is a favorite among hikers of all abilities. Check out the video below!

And if you love fish, then you should consider joining The Friends of the Leadville National Fish Hatchery,  a non-profit organization whose mission is to support the hatchery and its historical significance, promote conservation ethics through education, improve outdoor recreational opportunities, and enhance the facilities for community events.

The Leadville National Fish Hatchery. Photo: Leadville Today

Remember, federal facilities like the hatchery have found themselves on the budgetary chopping block back in Washington DC in recent years, so consider supporting their efforts with your time, money or other resources to assure that this educational and recreational treasure continues to thrive in Leadville Today.

Additionally, next Saturday, June 8, is the date of the annual membership meeting for the Friends of the Leadville National Fish Hatchery. Everyone is welcome to come and learn more about the group and their efforts.

Here is a schedule for the day:

• • •               8:30 a.m. –  work “day” (mostly light activities around the hatchery).
    •            10:30 a.m. – potluck brunch, at which the Friends will provide coffee and juice.
    •            11 a.m. – annual members’ meeting.
    •            12 p.m. – board meeting.

For questions or additional information, please contact Judy Cole, Secretary, FLNFH at flnfh15@gmail.com.