Omayra Acevedo, Colorado. I’ve never been fishing. Being the curious person that I am, I can’t help but feel a bit inquisitive as to what it’s all about. So, I hopped on the internet, did some research, made a few calls and vicariously lived through the stories that I read and heard. Through my exploration, I learned that Colorado is a hotspot for fishing. Which came as no surprise to me. Between our state’s 6,000 miles of streams and 1,300 lakes and reservoirs, fishermen have the opportunity to catch some 35 species of fish. Three hundred and twenty-two of those watery miles are considered Gold Medals.

Gold Medal Streams are waters that have been designated by the Colorado Wildlife Commission as providing great spots to catch large trout. By definition, they are able to produce 60 pounds of trout per acre. Within each acre, you can find one of twelve 14 inch or larger trout. What I found interesting is that the Cutthroat is the only indigenous trout to Colorado. Subspecies include the Greenback, the Rio Grande, the Colorado River and the Snake River. Rainbow, Brown, Brook and Lake trout are also found in our state. I was told that the Greenback is a threatened species on a state and federal level.

Anyone 16 years of age or younger can fish for free. If you’re over 16, please be legal and get your fishing license. A lot of that money goes back into the upkeep of our natural world. Interested in trying out some of Colorado’s Gold Medal Streams? Take your pick: Arkansas River, North Platte River, South Platte River, Frying Pan River (anyone hungry?), Blue River, Roaring Fork River, North Delaney Lake, Animas River, Gore Creek, Spinney Mountain Reservoir, Rio Grande, Gunnison River, Steamboat Lake and of course, the Colorado River. 

I’m not bothered by what other people do with their time or lives. At the end of the day, it’s none of my business. I just don’t know if I have the strength to catch an innocent creature, kill it and eat it. Yes, I know about catch and release. Still, it seems a bit too harsh for my soul. When it comes to animals, I am perhaps more sensitive than I should be. I wouldn’t mind, however, sitting beside a fisherman, observing, learning and experiencing something that has been natural since the beginning of time. After all, I do live in the state that offers some of the best fishing and beauty in the country. 

(Originally published in the November 19, 2020, edition of The Mountain-Ear.)