Balancing the potentials of water flow is the first area of concern.  Fish dams, rock clusters, and deadfalls must be mapped out to take advantage of the natural terrain.  Fish dams create still or slow moving water and are designed with natural spillways that make deep pools. 

The result; fast moving water from the spillway moves small gravel to create shallow riffles downstream.

The 2nd area to consider, now that we have created a variety of water speeds and resting areas for the fish, is food supply.  No matter how expertly the rocks have been placed, fish won't stay unless the food supply is consistent and abundant.  Downed trees, submerged hay bales and brushy areas are encouraged to improve the amount of naturally occurring insect life.  This component is the ultimate limiting factor in the Gold Medal Fishing definition; 12 trout over 14" per acre with 60 pounds of fish per surface acre.

All of these physical improvements to the habitat have to be maintained, of which we are happy to do.  Harmel's Ranch Resort has been very fortunate to have started out with the "blank canvas" and we were able to create Mother Nature's true masterpiece; Gold Medal Waters!

More construction is planned for the summer of 2004, with 300 two pounders to be added to the river in late May or early June.  Be sure to come out for some great fishin'!

To plan your Colorado vacation of a lifetime please call Steve, Amie, or Brad at 1.800.235.3402.  Email: stay@harmels.com