UPDATE: November 7th
Fishing has been closed for the season today, November 7th. Recent cold weather has iced over all of the lakes with the exception of a few inlets and outlets. Thank you for a great summer and have a safe winter. We look forward to seeing everybody next spring. We will begin our winter sampling (ice fishing) after the holidays. More information will be provided in the December Troutline.
Brent Groenke
Club Manager
On October 29th and 30th, we began our experiment with the 2019 super catchable rainbows. Our experiment is designed to provide data pertaining to the survivability of these fish in the lakes over the winter months vs. in the rearing pond where they are more susceptible to predation and disease. Also, we will be able to monitor how they maintain their condition (size) throughout the next summer. On Day 1, we moved 750 of these super catchables, averaging 21" and weighing 4 pounds, into the lower raceways from Pond 2. These fish were then fin clipped (adipose fin) so we can identify them throughout our winter and summer sampling in the years to come. Additionally, 17 of these fish were marked with a red floy tag below their dorsal fin. These tags have ID's ranging from 550-566. We ask that these fish please be harvested and shown to staff so we can collect the length and weight of these fish, to compare to the size they were stocked at. On Day 2, we stocked 730 of these fish into lakes 4,5,6,9,12,13,16,18,19, and 20. We look forward to collecting this data to analyze the most effective way to manage this fish class in the future.
Brent Groenke
Club Manager
On October 29th and 30th, we began our experiment with the 2019 super catchable rainbows. Our experiment is designed to provide data pertaining to the survivability of these fish in the lakes over the winter months vs. in the rearing pond where they are more susceptible to predation and disease. Also, we will be able to monitor how they maintain their condition (size) throughout the next summer. On Day 1, we moved 750 of these super catchables, averaging 21" and weighing 4 pounds, into the lower raceways from Pond 2. These fish were then fin clipped (adipose fin) so we can identify them throughout our winter and summer sampling in the years to come. Additionally, 17 of these fish were marked with a red floy tag below their dorsal fin. These tags have ID's ranging from 550-566. We ask that these fish please be harvested and shown to staff so we can collect the length and weight of these fish, to compare to the size they were stocked at. On Day 2, we stocked 730 of these fish into lakes 4,5,6,9,12,13,16,18,19, and 20. We look forward to collecting this data to analyze the most effective way to manage this fish class in the future.
UPDATE: September 12th
Although the leaves are changing colors already, we are still experiencing nice weather, with daily highs reaching the mid 50's. Our cooler overnight temperatures have begun to cool down lake water temperatures as well. Many members have been experiencing very good fishing within the last few weeks. The following is a fishing report based on the success of members as of lately.
Spin Fishing
Lakes 4,6,9,12,13, and 20 have been fishing very well. You can expect to catch super catchable size rainbows and cutbows in all of these lakes. Olive or black woolly bugger with a bubble has worked very well. You can also be successful using either a kastmaster or daredevle spoon ranging from two to three inches in length and red, white, or gold in color. Spinners have also been effective early morning and early evening hours. Upper and Lower Granite Lakes have a healthy brown trout population and you can see them running up the ditch between these two lakes, ranging from 18-24”.
Fly Fishing
Still lots of BIG fish. Suggest at least 3X /8lb tippet. Less lost flies and if releasing fish you can land and resuscitate faster. Good fishing in Lakes 4,5,6,9,12,13, 18 and 19. Best fishing is when there is a wind ripple on the water at 5-10 knots. Go to the side of the lake where there is a ripple or a “wind line”. If you do not get a bite in twenty minutes, change lakes.
Drys: Large attractor flies work, beetles, ants, other attractors and terrestrials work well on top and at inlets. We are still having some late Callibaetis hatches on lakes 4 and 5.
Streamers: Small, 1-1.5 inch green or black wolly buggers, damsel nymphs, marabou leach patterns, and minnows work on a fast strip. Moss and weed are less noticeable this year. Suggest bead head streamers if the fish not rising. The fish are down deep. Cast and let them sink in the deeper holes for 6-12 seconds. Fish often take them on the drop. Strip one second, then wait 2-3 seconds and strip again and wait. Sometimes fish take it on the strip as well.
Nymphs: Size 12, 14, 16 midge, chronomids, snow cones, chromies, black or brown zebra midge, and grey or green scuds, 2-3 feet down to stay out of the weeds, with a very slow retrieve.
If you would like to catch small, tasty brook trout, Lakes 14 and 20 provide great fishing for this species.
We want to remind you that the 19" rule is still in effect, so please return any species of fish over 19" in length. In an effort to utilize trout that will not survive throughout the winter, bag limits on rainbow trout, less than 19" in length, is suspended. Please harvest rainbow trout until fishing closes.
It's not too late to bring your children or friends to MML to experience great fall fishing. Right now is also a fantastic time to enjoy the fall colors, whether you’re sitting in your float tube or wading in a lake.
Brent Groenke
Club Manager
Spin Fishing
Lakes 4,6,9,12,13, and 20 have been fishing very well. You can expect to catch super catchable size rainbows and cutbows in all of these lakes. Olive or black woolly bugger with a bubble has worked very well. You can also be successful using either a kastmaster or daredevle spoon ranging from two to three inches in length and red, white, or gold in color. Spinners have also been effective early morning and early evening hours. Upper and Lower Granite Lakes have a healthy brown trout population and you can see them running up the ditch between these two lakes, ranging from 18-24”.
Fly Fishing
Still lots of BIG fish. Suggest at least 3X /8lb tippet. Less lost flies and if releasing fish you can land and resuscitate faster. Good fishing in Lakes 4,5,6,9,12,13, 18 and 19. Best fishing is when there is a wind ripple on the water at 5-10 knots. Go to the side of the lake where there is a ripple or a “wind line”. If you do not get a bite in twenty minutes, change lakes.
Drys: Large attractor flies work, beetles, ants, other attractors and terrestrials work well on top and at inlets. We are still having some late Callibaetis hatches on lakes 4 and 5.
Streamers: Small, 1-1.5 inch green or black wolly buggers, damsel nymphs, marabou leach patterns, and minnows work on a fast strip. Moss and weed are less noticeable this year. Suggest bead head streamers if the fish not rising. The fish are down deep. Cast and let them sink in the deeper holes for 6-12 seconds. Fish often take them on the drop. Strip one second, then wait 2-3 seconds and strip again and wait. Sometimes fish take it on the strip as well.
Nymphs: Size 12, 14, 16 midge, chronomids, snow cones, chromies, black or brown zebra midge, and grey or green scuds, 2-3 feet down to stay out of the weeds, with a very slow retrieve.
If you would like to catch small, tasty brook trout, Lakes 14 and 20 provide great fishing for this species.
We want to remind you that the 19" rule is still in effect, so please return any species of fish over 19" in length. In an effort to utilize trout that will not survive throughout the winter, bag limits on rainbow trout, less than 19" in length, is suspended. Please harvest rainbow trout until fishing closes.
It's not too late to bring your children or friends to MML to experience great fall fishing. Right now is also a fantastic time to enjoy the fall colors, whether you’re sitting in your float tube or wading in a lake.
Brent Groenke
Club Manager
UPDATE: July 9th
Today we stocked 3,526 catchable triploid rainbows. These fish averaged 33.3 ounces (2.1 pounds) and were 17.2". These fish got stocked into lakes 4,5,6,9,12,16,18,19,20. This will complete the rainbow catchable stocking for the year. The rest of our fish, 2019 and 2020 rainbows will be moved into their winter ponds throughout July and August.
With a warm summer and diminishing water flows, please be careful when handling fish as they are very fragile right now. .
With a warm summer and diminishing water flows, please be careful when handling fish as they are very fragile right now. .
UPDATE: June 26th
Today we stocked 901 fish into Lakes 4, 5, 12, 13, 16, 18, 19, and 20. These fish averaged 16.8", weighing 1.9 pounds (30.2 ounces). These fish went out great and will provide excellent fishing until our next big stocking on July 9th.
UPDATE: June 19th
On Friday, June 15th, Lake County issued a Stage 1 fire restriction. As such, Mount Massive Lakes is applying the same restriction to all club property until further notice. Although there has been some recent precipitation falling, it hasn't been enough to lessen the already significant fire danger that currently exists.
Please read more in this news release from the USFS, Leadville Ranger District.
Please read more in this news release from the USFS, Leadville Ranger District.
UPDATE: May 29th
Today we stocked 1,751 triploid rainbows. These fish averaged 16.9", weighing just under two pounds. We stocked lakes 5, 6, 9, 12, 18, 19, and 20. These fish were beginning to get stressed out with the warm temperatures and they will do much better in the lakes. Our next stocking will be June 25th.
UPDATE: May 24th
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Today we stocked 934 triploid rainbows into Lakes 4, 9, 12, 13, and 16. These fish were beginning to get sick and with the warm temperatures in the forecast we decided to begin stocking these fish early. They averaged 16.8" and weighed 30.2 ounces. These fish were scheduled to be stocked on June 4th. Rather then see them get sick and have a significant increase in mortality, it was the best decision to thin them out. We have nearly 3,000 of these fish remaining, which we will stock out on June 4th.
Brent Groenke General Manager |
UPDATE: April 30th
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Today we stocked our fingerling cutthroat. We stocked 2,475 into Lakes 2,3,4,5,7,8,12,15, and 20. These fish were 3" and will thrive in their lake environment. These cutthroat will provide additional unique fishing opportunities as soon as next summer. Our cutthroat spawning will begin in a couple weeks for our 2019 fingerlings
Brent Groenke General Manager |
UPDATE: April 24th
On April 23rd and 24th, we began our 2018 catchable rainbow stocking. We stocked a total of 3,011 rainbows (5,904 pounds) into Lakes 4,5,6,9,12,13,16,18,19, and 20. These rainbows looked great and averaged 16.9", weighing 31.4 ounces (nearly two pounds). Our unaccounted mortality took a significant hit for the second consecutive stocking this year. We lost 1,204 fish due to predators over the winter, accounting for 29% of the pond. These fish were sick last summer which makes them very vulnerable to predators from riding high and being weak. This completes the first stocking of the year. The next catchable rainbow stocking will be June 4th. If you would like to help out, contact Brent.
2018 Stocking Totals - 3,918 rainbows, 8,468 pounds.
Brent Groenke
General Manager
On April 23rd and 24th, we began our 2018 catchable rainbow stocking. We stocked a total of 3,011 rainbows (5,904 pounds) into Lakes 4,5,6,9,12,13,16,18,19, and 20. These rainbows looked great and averaged 16.9", weighing 31.4 ounces (nearly two pounds). Our unaccounted mortality took a significant hit for the second consecutive stocking this year. We lost 1,204 fish due to predators over the winter, accounting for 29% of the pond. These fish were sick last summer which makes them very vulnerable to predators from riding high and being weak. This completes the first stocking of the year. The next catchable rainbow stocking will be June 4th. If you would like to help out, contact Brent.
2018 Stocking Totals - 3,918 rainbows, 8,468 pounds.
Brent Groenke
General Manager
UPDATE: April 11th
With warm temperatures and strong winds over the last few days, the ice conditions have rapidly deteriorated at Mount Massive Lakes. Fishing is officially open today, April 11, 2018. Please remember that the 19" rule is still in effect, any fish over 19" must be returned to the water immediately. We stocked our super catchable rainbows one month ago and we will begin to stock our catchable rainbows within the next few weeks. Please stay off any remaining ice and refrain from using any muddy roads when possible.
Brent Groenke
General Manager
With warm temperatures and strong winds over the last few days, the ice conditions have rapidly deteriorated at Mount Massive Lakes. Fishing is officially open today, April 11, 2018. Please remember that the 19" rule is still in effect, any fish over 19" must be returned to the water immediately. We stocked our super catchable rainbows one month ago and we will begin to stock our catchable rainbows within the next few weeks. Please stay off any remaining ice and refrain from using any muddy roads when possible.
Brent Groenke
General Manager
UPDATE: March 13th
Today we stocked the remainder of the super catchable Kamloops rainbows. We stocked Lakes 5, 6, and 20 with 356 fish. The average length of these fish were 19.0", weighing 2.8 pounds. Every year we experience unaccounted mortality in our rearing ponds, which range from 325 (13%) to 3,292 (39%) depending on the pond, which is caused by predators. This spring, we experienced a 56% unaccounted mortality in Pond 2, where these super catchbles were all winter. This is a significant increase from only 13% a year ago. We hope to see better results in our catchable rearing ponds this summer, by experimenting with longer inlet pipes to move the fish into deeper water away from the predators. We will resume our catchable stocking as the ice begins to melt off the lakes, mid to late April. If you would like to help out, please contact Brent.
Today we stocked the remainder of the super catchable Kamloops rainbows. We stocked Lakes 5, 6, and 20 with 356 fish. The average length of these fish were 19.0", weighing 2.8 pounds. Every year we experience unaccounted mortality in our rearing ponds, which range from 325 (13%) to 3,292 (39%) depending on the pond, which is caused by predators. This spring, we experienced a 56% unaccounted mortality in Pond 2, where these super catchbles were all winter. This is a significant increase from only 13% a year ago. We hope to see better results in our catchable rearing ponds this summer, by experimenting with longer inlet pipes to move the fish into deeper water away from the predators. We will resume our catchable stocking as the ice begins to melt off the lakes, mid to late April. If you would like to help out, please contact Brent.
UPDATE: March 2nd
We did our first stocking today which consisted of our super catchable rainbows. We stocked lakes 4, 9, 12, 16, and 19. The average size of these kamloops rainbows were 19", weighing 2.9 lbs (45.7 oz). We decided to begin stocking this year class of fish through the ice to reduce the mortality of spawning behavior in the rearing pond. Last year, we experienced significant mortality with this species of fish as the ice began to come off. They started showing signs of spawning and mortality about two weeks ago. Stocking these fish now will give them a better opportunity to be available for fishing season versus trying to hold them for about one more month. We will continue to stock lakes 5, 6, 18, and 20 with the remaining super catchables next week as weather permits. Our first catchable rainbow stocking will take place at ice off.
We did our first stocking today which consisted of our super catchable rainbows. We stocked lakes 4, 9, 12, 16, and 19. The average size of these kamloops rainbows were 19", weighing 2.9 lbs (45.7 oz). We decided to begin stocking this year class of fish through the ice to reduce the mortality of spawning behavior in the rearing pond. Last year, we experienced significant mortality with this species of fish as the ice began to come off. They started showing signs of spawning and mortality about two weeks ago. Stocking these fish now will give them a better opportunity to be available for fishing season versus trying to hold them for about one more month. We will continue to stock lakes 5, 6, 18, and 20 with the remaining super catchables next week as weather permits. Our first catchable rainbow stocking will take place at ice off.
UPDATE: February 20-23rd
Mount Massive Lakes at Aquaculture America Conference, Las Vegas, NV
Brent and Brian attended the annual Aquaculture America Conference in Las Vegas. This is the largest aquaculture professional event in the US, and hosts experts from all segments of the aquaculture industry. This was a fantastic opportunity for our staff to learn the latest techniques and best practices as it relates to trout rearing, including education on pond construction, economics of wildlife/predator control, fish food alternatives, fish diseases and new veterinary directive feed control. It was a great opportunity for Brent and Brian to further their knowledge, expand their professional network, and validate that MML is a world class operation.
Mount Massive Lakes at Aquaculture America Conference, Las Vegas, NV
Brent and Brian attended the annual Aquaculture America Conference in Las Vegas. This is the largest aquaculture professional event in the US, and hosts experts from all segments of the aquaculture industry. This was a fantastic opportunity for our staff to learn the latest techniques and best practices as it relates to trout rearing, including education on pond construction, economics of wildlife/predator control, fish food alternatives, fish diseases and new veterinary directive feed control. It was a great opportunity for Brent and Brian to further their knowledge, expand their professional network, and validate that MML is a world class operation.
UPDATE: February 6th
We will be stocking our 2018 Triploid rainbows and Kamloops super catchables on April 30, June 4, 5, July 9, 30, and August 13. The Kamloops super catchables will be stocked at ice off to prevent rearing pond mortality from spawning behavior. We expect to stock nearly 15,400 fish this year. If you would like to help stock on any of these dates, please contact Brent at 719-293-5441.
Our water flows have been stable and we are still running water throughout the entire system. So far, we have had very little snowfall this winter, only 42.1” since October 1st. Last winter, from October 1st , 2016 to January 31st, 2017, MML had significantly more snow, totaling 73.1”. In order to have a good water year, we rely on late winter/spring snow storms which provide a lot of moisture to add to the current snowpack, along with a cool spring to allow spring runoff at a steady rate. Over the last five years, the average amount of snowfall from March through May has averaged 47.4”. According to USDA Colorado SNOTEL, the Arkansas River Basin is currently at 56% snowpack, compared to one year ago today when it was 159%. Although this number is hard to relate to the location of the club, Weston Pass has a satisfactory amount of snow.
The next Board meeting will be held on Saturday, April 28th, 2018, 9:30am at Rampart Supply, 1801 N. Union Blvd., in Colorado Springs. The BOD will be finalizing the 2018/2019 budget at this meeting. This is your club; Please attend and share your ideas.
We will be stocking our 2018 Triploid rainbows and Kamloops super catchables on April 30, June 4, 5, July 9, 30, and August 13. The Kamloops super catchables will be stocked at ice off to prevent rearing pond mortality from spawning behavior. We expect to stock nearly 15,400 fish this year. If you would like to help stock on any of these dates, please contact Brent at 719-293-5441.
Our water flows have been stable and we are still running water throughout the entire system. So far, we have had very little snowfall this winter, only 42.1” since October 1st. Last winter, from October 1st , 2016 to January 31st, 2017, MML had significantly more snow, totaling 73.1”. In order to have a good water year, we rely on late winter/spring snow storms which provide a lot of moisture to add to the current snowpack, along with a cool spring to allow spring runoff at a steady rate. Over the last five years, the average amount of snowfall from March through May has averaged 47.4”. According to USDA Colorado SNOTEL, the Arkansas River Basin is currently at 56% snowpack, compared to one year ago today when it was 159%. Although this number is hard to relate to the location of the club, Weston Pass has a satisfactory amount of snow.
The next Board meeting will be held on Saturday, April 28th, 2018, 9:30am at Rampart Supply, 1801 N. Union Blvd., in Colorado Springs. The BOD will be finalizing the 2018/2019 budget at this meeting. This is your club; Please attend and share your ideas.
UPDATE: January 8th
So far, the winter has seen pretty light snowfall compared to this time last year. Hopefully, we will see a change in the weather pattern that brings more snow to the higher terrain, especially as we approach the heavy snowfall months of March and April.
So far, the winter has seen pretty light snowfall compared to this time last year. Hopefully, we will see a change in the weather pattern that brings more snow to the higher terrain, especially as we approach the heavy snowfall months of March and April.
Winter Sampling, 2018
Our annual ice fishing/sampling program is underway. Still, lots of lakes yet to cover. If you're interested in helping out the Staff with this activity, please contact Brent.
Our annual ice fishing/sampling program is underway. Still, lots of lakes yet to cover. If you're interested in helping out the Staff with this activity, please contact Brent.
UPDATE: November 15th
Fishing has been closed for the season today, November 15th. Recent cold weather has iced over all of the lakes with the exception of a few inlets and outlets. Thank you for a great summer and have a safe winter. We look forward to seeing everybody next spring. We will begin our winter sampling (ice fishing) after the holidays. More information will be provided in the December Troutline.
Fishing has been closed for the season today, November 15th. Recent cold weather has iced over all of the lakes with the exception of a few inlets and outlets. Thank you for a great summer and have a safe winter. We look forward to seeing everybody next spring. We will begin our winter sampling (ice fishing) after the holidays. More information will be provided in the December Troutline.
UPDATE: July 17th
Today we stocked out the remaining catchable rainbow trout for 2017. We stocked 4,244 fish into lakes 4,5,6,9,12,18,19, and 20. These fish were 16.5", weighing nearly two pounds and looked great. These fish came from New Pond up by High Lake. New Pond experiences significant mortality from predators such as coyotes and eagles. We had a 39% unnaccounted mortality, 3,292 fish, (we shoot for 10% each year) which is very high. Thank-you to volunteers Jim Tims, Doc Watson, Bill Bennett, Caitlyn Blankenbeckler, and the Kinzle girls.
Overall, 2017 was the best stocking season since 2012. We increased total number stocked, average size, and total pounds. We stocked 12,034 kamloops rainbow trout with an average size of 34.7 ounces (2.2 pounds) reaching 23,409 pounds. We significantly increased the average size almost half of a pound. We anticipate to have plenty of fish for next years stocking season. We have over 3,000 extra 2018 rainbow trout in Hatchery Pond. We will add these fish to the ponds this fall, which will essentially put us back at zero mortality going into the winter. By topping the ponds off in the fall, predators will have less time to decimate the stocking class population before they get turned loose starting in spring. On top of stocking 4,244 fish, we moved an additional 897 to Pond Two for our 2018 super catchables. We now have 2,328 triploid rainbows for our next super catchable class.
Today we stocked out the remaining catchable rainbow trout for 2017. We stocked 4,244 fish into lakes 4,5,6,9,12,18,19, and 20. These fish were 16.5", weighing nearly two pounds and looked great. These fish came from New Pond up by High Lake. New Pond experiences significant mortality from predators such as coyotes and eagles. We had a 39% unnaccounted mortality, 3,292 fish, (we shoot for 10% each year) which is very high. Thank-you to volunteers Jim Tims, Doc Watson, Bill Bennett, Caitlyn Blankenbeckler, and the Kinzle girls.
Overall, 2017 was the best stocking season since 2012. We increased total number stocked, average size, and total pounds. We stocked 12,034 kamloops rainbow trout with an average size of 34.7 ounces (2.2 pounds) reaching 23,409 pounds. We significantly increased the average size almost half of a pound. We anticipate to have plenty of fish for next years stocking season. We have over 3,000 extra 2018 rainbow trout in Hatchery Pond. We will add these fish to the ponds this fall, which will essentially put us back at zero mortality going into the winter. By topping the ponds off in the fall, predators will have less time to decimate the stocking class population before they get turned loose starting in spring. On top of stocking 4,244 fish, we moved an additional 897 to Pond Two for our 2018 super catchables. We now have 2,328 triploid rainbows for our next super catchable class.
UPDATE: June 23rd
Today, we stocked 1,452 catchable kamloops rainbow trout into lakes 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 16, 18, and 19. These rainbows were 16.2" and weighed 28 ounces. These fish looked and went out great. After this stocking, we have stocked 7,790 catchable rainbows, 15,549 pounds, with an average of 35.7 ounces, exceeding the MML goal of 28 ounces so far this year. Our next stocking will be during the week of July 4th. This week, we also stocked 1,370 fingerling brown trout. These brown trout went into lakes 6, 8, 9, and 18 at 3". You can expect to begin catching these fish next summer.
Today, we stocked 1,452 catchable kamloops rainbow trout into lakes 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 16, 18, and 19. These rainbows were 16.2" and weighed 28 ounces. These fish looked and went out great. After this stocking, we have stocked 7,790 catchable rainbows, 15,549 pounds, with an average of 35.7 ounces, exceeding the MML goal of 28 ounces so far this year. Our next stocking will be during the week of July 4th. This week, we also stocked 1,370 fingerling brown trout. These brown trout went into lakes 6, 8, 9, and 18 at 3". You can expect to begin catching these fish next summer.
Last week after stocking catchable rainbow trout from Rainbow Pond, we were able clean and make repairs so the pond would be more efficient in the future. On June 12th, we filled the pond and began moving 2018 triploid rainbows. We moved 3,500 fish, from Pond 1, which will be in there until next June when they get stocked into the lakes. These fish are 12" and we expect them to be almost 16" and 25 ounces going into the winter.
Update: June 5th
On Monday, June 5, we stocked a total of 2,196 kamloops rainbow trout into lakes 4, 5, 6, 9, 12, 16, 18, 19, and 20. These fish looked great and measured 16.5", weighing just under two pounds. We took these fish out of rainbow pond. Between last summer and June 5, we experienced a 30% unaccounted mortality, which is a significant increase from the 10% we plan for each year. Although this is a common issue with so many eagles, hawks, and coyotes around, we have taken action to help prevent this in the future. By keeping our extra rainbows after our fall grading (which are now in Hatchery Pond) we will be able to top our ponds off going into each winter allowing us to start at 0% unaccounted mortality later in the season, therefore shortening the amount of time for predators to decrease our rearing pond populations. This will not be noticed until the 2018 fishing season. By the looks of our numbers, we are still on pace to stock a total of over 14,000 catchable rainbows this summer.
On Monday, June 5, we stocked a total of 2,196 kamloops rainbow trout into lakes 4, 5, 6, 9, 12, 16, 18, 19, and 20. These fish looked great and measured 16.5", weighing just under two pounds. We took these fish out of rainbow pond. Between last summer and June 5, we experienced a 30% unaccounted mortality, which is a significant increase from the 10% we plan for each year. Although this is a common issue with so many eagles, hawks, and coyotes around, we have taken action to help prevent this in the future. By keeping our extra rainbows after our fall grading (which are now in Hatchery Pond) we will be able to top our ponds off going into each winter allowing us to start at 0% unaccounted mortality later in the season, therefore shortening the amount of time for predators to decrease our rearing pond populations. This will not be noticed until the 2018 fishing season. By the looks of our numbers, we are still on pace to stock a total of over 14,000 catchable rainbows this summer.
Update: May 1st
Today we stocked an additional 2,453 kamloops rainbows into Lakes 1,5,6,9,12,13,16,17,18, and 19. These fish looked great and went out very good. They were 17.0 inches and weighed 2 pounds each. This additional 4,810 pounds of fish stocked concludes our May stocking. Our next stocking will take place on June 5th.
Today we stocked an additional 2,453 kamloops rainbows into Lakes 1,5,6,9,12,13,16,17,18, and 19. These fish looked great and went out very good. They were 17.0 inches and weighed 2 pounds each. This additional 4,810 pounds of fish stocked concludes our May stocking. Our next stocking will take place on June 5th.
More Fish Go Out: April 20th
Today we stocked 1,262 cutbow super catchables. These fish were the same size as the stocking last week. We stocked the same lakes. These fish were not doing well in the rearing pond environment due to their recent spawning activities. With the cutbows being crowded and confined to a small area, they began fighting with each other and showing aggressive spawning behavior, causing significant mortality. With over 183 mortalities in the past week, we decided to get these fish stocked into the lakes rather then lose them in the rearing pond. These cutbows mature and begin spawning at age three. These fish were over three years old (42 months) and mature to spawn. Overall, these cutbows did very well for the size they reached. We only had a 9% unaccounted mortality (fish we do not see leave the pond from predators such as eagles and coyotes) which is great for that size of fish. We will complete the first stocking with kamloops rainbows on May 1st. These kamloops rainbows average 16.2" and weigh 28 ounces.
Along with stocking 1,677 super catchables - nearly 5,000 pounds - we stocked 12 G-I-A-N-T rainbows which averaged over 8 pounds each! Thank you to member Dr. James Berwick for his donation to MML for the purchase of these fantastic rainbow trout. These fish were stocked throughout the club.
Today we stocked 1,262 cutbow super catchables. These fish were the same size as the stocking last week. We stocked the same lakes. These fish were not doing well in the rearing pond environment due to their recent spawning activities. With the cutbows being crowded and confined to a small area, they began fighting with each other and showing aggressive spawning behavior, causing significant mortality. With over 183 mortalities in the past week, we decided to get these fish stocked into the lakes rather then lose them in the rearing pond. These cutbows mature and begin spawning at age three. These fish were over three years old (42 months) and mature to spawn. Overall, these cutbows did very well for the size they reached. We only had a 9% unaccounted mortality (fish we do not see leave the pond from predators such as eagles and coyotes) which is great for that size of fish. We will complete the first stocking with kamloops rainbows on May 1st. These kamloops rainbows average 16.2" and weigh 28 ounces.
Along with stocking 1,677 super catchables - nearly 5,000 pounds - we stocked 12 G-I-A-N-T rainbows which averaged over 8 pounds each! Thank you to member Dr. James Berwick for his donation to MML for the purchase of these fantastic rainbow trout. These fish were stocked throughout the club.
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First Stocking of 2017: April 14th
Today we stocked 415 super catchable cutbows. These fish averaged 19.2" and weigh about 3 pounds, with some fish much larger than that. We stocked a total of 1,222 pounds into Lakes 1,4,5,6,9,12,13,16,18,19, and 20. Please note that cutbows have a bronze colored background compared to a rainbow which has a silver colored background. For the first stocking of the season, we shoot for 15% super catchables and 85% catchables. Our next stocking will consist of 3,765 catchables to complete our first stocking. This stocking will take place in the next couple of weeks. If you would like to help out please contact Brent at 719-293-5441. |
Winter Sampling
In between pushing all the snow around, the guys have been busy with winter lake sampling activities. There are a number lakes remaining to be fished, so if you're interested please let Brent know. Here's a few nice ones. The brook trout came out of Lake 13 (Johnson), was 21.1" and weighed 3.1 lbs.!
In between pushing all the snow around, the guys have been busy with winter lake sampling activities. There are a number lakes remaining to be fished, so if you're interested please let Brent know. Here's a few nice ones. The brook trout came out of Lake 13 (Johnson), was 21.1" and weighed 3.1 lbs.!
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It's getting deep....
Well, at least the snow is! So far, the winter of 2016/2017 has seen near record levels of snowfall. As of the end of January, the upper Arkansas valley snow-pack is approximately 160% of normal. That's encouraging news for our summer water supplies, and we haven't even gotten to the snowiest months of March/April.
Fellow member Don Holmgren was nice enough to share some of his recent winter images from around the club. Thanks, Don!
Well, at least the snow is! So far, the winter of 2016/2017 has seen near record levels of snowfall. As of the end of January, the upper Arkansas valley snow-pack is approximately 160% of normal. That's encouraging news for our summer water supplies, and we haven't even gotten to the snowiest months of March/April.
Fellow member Don Holmgren was nice enough to share some of his recent winter images from around the club. Thanks, Don!
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Brent Groenke - General Manager
Brent grew up in Morden, Manitoba, Canada. He attended University of Minnesota-Crookston from 2004-2008 and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Resource Management. During university, Brent competed in NCAA Ice Hockey and Golf. Upon completing university, Brent moved to Montrose, Colorado to work with Colorado Parks and Wildlife as an aquatic research technician and fisheries management technician from 2008-2012. Brent began his career at MML during the winter of 2013 and became general manager May 1, 2016. Brent enjoys hunting, fishing, golfing, and riding motorcycles during his free time.
Brent grew up in Morden, Manitoba, Canada. He attended University of Minnesota-Crookston from 2004-2008 and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Resource Management. During university, Brent competed in NCAA Ice Hockey and Golf. Upon completing university, Brent moved to Montrose, Colorado to work with Colorado Parks and Wildlife as an aquatic research technician and fisheries management technician from 2008-2012. Brent began his career at MML during the winter of 2013 and became general manager May 1, 2016. Brent enjoys hunting, fishing, golfing, and riding motorcycles during his free time.
Bryan Hamacher – Operations Manager
Bryan grew up in Simla, Colorado for his entire childhood. While there he grew up hunting and fishing, as well as playing sports. After graduating high school he attended Western State Colorado University in Gunnison, Colorado where he received a bachelor of science in wildlife biology. While in Gunnison he worked for the Colorado Parks and Wildlife area aquatic fish biologist for three years. Bryan can be found fishing Blue Mesa reservoir year around, as that is his favorite place to be. Bryan then moved to Glenwood Springs, Colorado where he worked at Crystal River State Fish hatchery as a fish culturist. This hatchery was a brood unit that produced the majority of Colorado’s rainbow trout eggs. After working at Crystal River Bryan worked with the native fish conservation biologist in Glenwood Springs. Bryan began his career at MML in May of 2015. Bryan can be found hunting, fishing, camping, boating, and skiing during his free time.
Bryan grew up in Simla, Colorado for his entire childhood. While there he grew up hunting and fishing, as well as playing sports. After graduating high school he attended Western State Colorado University in Gunnison, Colorado where he received a bachelor of science in wildlife biology. While in Gunnison he worked for the Colorado Parks and Wildlife area aquatic fish biologist for three years. Bryan can be found fishing Blue Mesa reservoir year around, as that is his favorite place to be. Bryan then moved to Glenwood Springs, Colorado where he worked at Crystal River State Fish hatchery as a fish culturist. This hatchery was a brood unit that produced the majority of Colorado’s rainbow trout eggs. After working at Crystal River Bryan worked with the native fish conservation biologist in Glenwood Springs. Bryan began his career at MML in May of 2015. Bryan can be found hunting, fishing, camping, boating, and skiing during his free time.
Josh Whitton- Operations Technician
Josh grew up in Lakewood, Colorado, and as a young child mainly watched T.V. and played baseball. After graduating high school, he attended Western State Colorado University earning a Bachelor's Degree in Wildlife Biology. Josh then went on to work for several different Colorado Parks and Wildlife offices as a fisheries technician, before joining the staff at Mount Massive Lakes. His hobbies include fishing, hunting, snowboarding, hiking, fly-tying, and watching football. He enjoys spending all of his time outside in the mountains of Colorado and loves traveling the state, trying to see everything it has to offer.
Josh grew up in Lakewood, Colorado, and as a young child mainly watched T.V. and played baseball. After graduating high school, he attended Western State Colorado University earning a Bachelor's Degree in Wildlife Biology. Josh then went on to work for several different Colorado Parks and Wildlife offices as a fisheries technician, before joining the staff at Mount Massive Lakes. His hobbies include fishing, hunting, snowboarding, hiking, fly-tying, and watching football. He enjoys spending all of his time outside in the mountains of Colorado and loves traveling the state, trying to see everything it has to offer.
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Brent Groenke - General Manager Brent grew up in Morden, Manitoba, Canada. He attended University of Minnesota-Crookston from 2004-2008 and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Resource Management. During university, Brent competed in NCAA Ice Hockey and Golf. Upon completing university, Brent moved to Montrose, Colorado to work with Colorado Parks and Wildlife as an aquatic research technician and fisheries management technician from 2008-2012. Brent began his career at MML during the winter of 2013 and became general manager May 1, 2016. Brent enjoys hunting, fishing, golfing, and riding motorcycles during his free time. Meet the Staff |
Although the leaves are changing colors already, we are still experiencing nice weather, with daily highs reaching the mid 50's. Our cooler overnight temperatures have begun to cool down lake water temperatures as well. Many members have been experiencing very good fishing within the last few weeks. The following is a fishing report based on the success of members as of lately.
Spin Fishing
Lakes 4,6,9,12,13, and 20 have been fishing very well. You can expect to catch super catchable size rainbows and cutbows in all of these lakes. Olive or black woolly bugger with a bubble has worked very well. You can also be successful using either a kastmaster or daredevle spoon ranging from two to three inches in length and red, white, or gold in color. Spinners have also been effective early morning and early evening hours. Upper and Lower Granite Lakes have a healthy brown trout population and you can see them running up the ditch between these two lakes, ranging from 18-24”.
Fly Fishing
Still lots of BIG fish. Suggest at least 3X /8lb tippet. Less lost flies and if releasing fish you can land and resuscitate faster. Good fishing in Lakes 4,5,6,9,12,13, 18 and 19. Best fishing is when there is a wind ripple on the water at 5-10 knots. Go to the side of the lake where there is a ripple or a “wind line”. If you do not get a bite in twenty minutes, change lakes.
Drys: Large attractor flies work, beetles, ants, other attractors and terrestrials work well on top and at inlets. We are still having some late Callibaetis hatches on lakes 4 and 5.
Streamers: Small, 1-1.5 inch green or black wolly buggers, damsel nymphs, marabou leach patterns, and minnows work on a fast strip. Moss and weed are less noticeable this year. Suggest bead head streamers if the fish not rising. The fish are down deep. Cast and let them sink in the deeper holes for 6-12 seconds. Fish often take them on the drop. Strip one second, then wait 2-3 seconds and strip again and wait. Sometimes fish take it on the strip as well.
Nymphs: Size 12, 14, 16 midge, chronomids, snow cones, chromies, black or brown zebra midge, and grey or green scuds, 2-3 feet down to stay out of the weeds, with a very slow retrieve.
If you would like to catch small, tasty brook trout, Lakes 14 and 20 provide great fishing for this species.
We want to remind you that the 19" rule is still in effect, so please return any species of fish over 19" in length. In an effort to utilize trout that will not survive throughout the winter, bag limits on rainbow trout, less than 19" in length, is suspended. Please harvest rainbow trout until fishing closes.
It's not too late to bring your children or friends to MML to experience great fall fishing. Right now is also a fantastic time to enjoy the fall colors, whether you’re sitting in your float tube or wading in a lake.
Brent Groenke
Club Manager
Spin Fishing
Lakes 4,6,9,12,13, and 20 have been fishing very well. You can expect to catch super catchable size rainbows and cutbows in all of these lakes. Olive or black woolly bugger with a bubble has worked very well. You can also be successful using either a kastmaster or daredevle spoon ranging from two to three inches in length and red, white, or gold in color. Spinners have also been effective early morning and early evening hours. Upper and Lower Granite Lakes have a healthy brown trout population and you can see them running up the ditch between these two lakes, ranging from 18-24”.
Fly Fishing
Still lots of BIG fish. Suggest at least 3X /8lb tippet. Less lost flies and if releasing fish you can land and resuscitate faster. Good fishing in Lakes 4,5,6,9,12,13, 18 and 19. Best fishing is when there is a wind ripple on the water at 5-10 knots. Go to the side of the lake where there is a ripple or a “wind line”. If you do not get a bite in twenty minutes, change lakes.
Drys: Large attractor flies work, beetles, ants, other attractors and terrestrials work well on top and at inlets. We are still having some late Callibaetis hatches on lakes 4 and 5.
Streamers: Small, 1-1.5 inch green or black wolly buggers, damsel nymphs, marabou leach patterns, and minnows work on a fast strip. Moss and weed are less noticeable this year. Suggest bead head streamers if the fish not rising. The fish are down deep. Cast and let them sink in the deeper holes for 6-12 seconds. Fish often take them on the drop. Strip one second, then wait 2-3 seconds and strip again and wait. Sometimes fish take it on the strip as well.
Nymphs: Size 12, 14, 16 midge, chronomids, snow cones, chromies, black or brown zebra midge, and grey or green scuds, 2-3 feet down to stay out of the weeds, with a very slow retrieve.
If you would like to catch small, tasty brook trout, Lakes 14 and 20 provide great fishing for this species.
We want to remind you that the 19" rule is still in effect, so please return any species of fish over 19" in length. In an effort to utilize trout that will not survive throughout the winter, bag limits on rainbow trout, less than 19" in length, is suspended. Please harvest rainbow trout until fishing closes.
It's not too late to bring your children or friends to MML to experience great fall fishing. Right now is also a fantastic time to enjoy the fall colors, whether you’re sitting in your float tube or wading in a lake.
Brent Groenke
Club Manager
FISHING IS NOW CLOSED
Fishing Report
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National Weather Service
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Weather Station at MML
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UPDATE: November 7th
Fishing has been closed for the season today, November 7th. Recent cold weather has iced over all of the lakes with the exception of a few inlets and outlets. Thank you for a great summer and have a safe winter. We look forward to seeing everybody next spring. We will begin our winter sampling (ice fishing) after the holidays. More information will be provided in the December Troutline.
Brent Groenke
Club Manager
On October 29th and 30th, we began our experiment with the 2019 super catchable rainbows. Our experiment is designed to provide data pertaining to the survivability of these fish in the lakes over the winter months vs. in the rearing pond where they are more susceptible to predation and disease. Also, we will be able to monitor how they maintain their condition (size) throughout the next summer. On Day 1, we moved 750 of these super catchables, averaging 21" and weighing 4 pounds, into the lower raceways from Pond 2. These fish were then fin clipped (adipose fin) so we can identify them throughout our winter and summer sampling in the years to come. Additionally, 17 of these fish were marked with a red floy tag below their dorsal fin. These tags have ID's ranging from 550-566. We ask that these fish please be harvested and shown to staff so we can collect the length and weight of these fish, to compare to the size they were stocked at. On Day 2, we stocked 730 of these fish into lakes 4,5,6,9,12,13,16,18,19, and 20. We look forward to collecting this data to analyze the most effective way to manage this fish class in the future.
Brent Groenke
Club Manager
On October 29th and 30th, we began our experiment with the 2019 super catchable rainbows. Our experiment is designed to provide data pertaining to the survivability of these fish in the lakes over the winter months vs. in the rearing pond where they are more susceptible to predation and disease. Also, we will be able to monitor how they maintain their condition (size) throughout the next summer. On Day 1, we moved 750 of these super catchables, averaging 21" and weighing 4 pounds, into the lower raceways from Pond 2. These fish were then fin clipped (adipose fin) so we can identify them throughout our winter and summer sampling in the years to come. Additionally, 17 of these fish were marked with a red floy tag below their dorsal fin. These tags have ID's ranging from 550-566. We ask that these fish please be harvested and shown to staff so we can collect the length and weight of these fish, to compare to the size they were stocked at. On Day 2, we stocked 730 of these fish into lakes 4,5,6,9,12,13,16,18,19, and 20. We look forward to collecting this data to analyze the most effective way to manage this fish class in the future.
UPDATE: September 12th
Although the leaves are changing colors already, we are still experiencing nice weather, with daily highs reaching the mid 50's. Our cooler overnight temperatures have begun to cool down lake water temperatures as well. Many members have been experiencing very good fishing within the last few weeks. The following is a fishing report based on the success of members as of lately.
Spin Fishing
Lakes 4,6,9,12,13, and 20 have been fishing very well. You can expect to catch super catchable size rainbows and cutbows in all of these lakes. Olive or black woolly bugger with a bubble has worked very well. You can also be successful using either a kastmaster or daredevle spoon ranging from two to three inches in length and red, white, or gold in color. Spinners have also been effective early morning and early evening hours. Upper and Lower Granite Lakes have a healthy brown trout population and you can see them running up the ditch between these two lakes, ranging from 18-24”.
Fly Fishing
Still lots of BIG fish. Suggest at least 3X /8lb tippet. Less lost flies and if releasing fish you can land and resuscitate faster. Good fishing in Lakes 4,5,6,9,12,13, 18 and 19. Best fishing is when there is a wind ripple on the water at 5-10 knots. Go to the side of the lake where there is a ripple or a “wind line”. If you do not get a bite in twenty minutes, change lakes.
Drys: Large attractor flies work, beetles, ants, other attractors and terrestrials work well on top and at inlets. We are still having some late Callibaetis hatches on lakes 4 and 5.
Streamers: Small, 1-1.5 inch green or black wolly buggers, damsel nymphs, marabou leach patterns, and minnows work on a fast strip. Moss and weed are less noticeable this year. Suggest bead head streamers if the fish not rising. The fish are down deep. Cast and let them sink in the deeper holes for 6-12 seconds. Fish often take them on the drop. Strip one second, then wait 2-3 seconds and strip again and wait. Sometimes fish take it on the strip as well.
Nymphs: Size 12, 14, 16 midge, chronomids, snow cones, chromies, black or brown zebra midge, and grey or green scuds, 2-3 feet down to stay out of the weeds, with a very slow retrieve.
If you would like to catch small, tasty brook trout, Lakes 14 and 20 provide great fishing for this species.
We want to remind you that the 19" rule is still in effect, so please return any species of fish over 19" in length. In an effort to utilize trout that will not survive throughout the winter, bag limits on rainbow trout, less than 19" in length, is suspended. Please harvest rainbow trout until fishing closes.
It's not too late to bring your children or friends to MML to experience great fall fishing. Right now is also a fantastic time to enjoy the fall colors, whether you’re sitting in your float tube or wading in a lake.
Brent Groenke
Club Manager
Spin Fishing
Lakes 4,6,9,12,13, and 20 have been fishing very well. You can expect to catch super catchable size rainbows and cutbows in all of these lakes. Olive or black woolly bugger with a bubble has worked very well. You can also be successful using either a kastmaster or daredevle spoon ranging from two to three inches in length and red, white, or gold in color. Spinners have also been effective early morning and early evening hours. Upper and Lower Granite Lakes have a healthy brown trout population and you can see them running up the ditch between these two lakes, ranging from 18-24”.
Fly Fishing
Still lots of BIG fish. Suggest at least 3X /8lb tippet. Less lost flies and if releasing fish you can land and resuscitate faster. Good fishing in Lakes 4,5,6,9,12,13, 18 and 19. Best fishing is when there is a wind ripple on the water at 5-10 knots. Go to the side of the lake where there is a ripple or a “wind line”. If you do not get a bite in twenty minutes, change lakes.
Drys: Large attractor flies work, beetles, ants, other attractors and terrestrials work well on top and at inlets. We are still having some late Callibaetis hatches on lakes 4 and 5.
Streamers: Small, 1-1.5 inch green or black wolly buggers, damsel nymphs, marabou leach patterns, and minnows work on a fast strip. Moss and weed are less noticeable this year. Suggest bead head streamers if the fish not rising. The fish are down deep. Cast and let them sink in the deeper holes for 6-12 seconds. Fish often take them on the drop. Strip one second, then wait 2-3 seconds and strip again and wait. Sometimes fish take it on the strip as well.
Nymphs: Size 12, 14, 16 midge, chronomids, snow cones, chromies, black or brown zebra midge, and grey or green scuds, 2-3 feet down to stay out of the weeds, with a very slow retrieve.
If you would like to catch small, tasty brook trout, Lakes 14 and 20 provide great fishing for this species.
We want to remind you that the 19" rule is still in effect, so please return any species of fish over 19" in length. In an effort to utilize trout that will not survive throughout the winter, bag limits on rainbow trout, less than 19" in length, is suspended. Please harvest rainbow trout until fishing closes.
It's not too late to bring your children or friends to MML to experience great fall fishing. Right now is also a fantastic time to enjoy the fall colors, whether you’re sitting in your float tube or wading in a lake.
Brent Groenke
Club Manager
UPDATE: July 9th
Today we stocked 3,526 catchable triploid rainbows. These fish averaged 33.3 ounces (2.1 pounds) and were 17.2". These fish got stocked into lakes 4,5,6,9,12,16,18,19,20. This will complete the rainbow catchable stocking for the year. The rest of our fish, 2019 and 2020 rainbows will be moved into their winter ponds throughout July and August.
With a warm summer and diminishing water flows, please be careful when handling fish as they are very fragile right now. .
With a warm summer and diminishing water flows, please be careful when handling fish as they are very fragile right now. .
UPDATE: June 26th
Today we stocked 901 fish into Lakes 4, 5, 12, 13, 16, 18, 19, and 20. These fish averaged 16.8", weighing 1.9 pounds (30.2 ounces). These fish went out great and will provide excellent fishing until our next big stocking on July 9th.
UPDATE: June 19th
On Friday, June 15th, Lake County issued a Stage 1 fire restriction. As such, Mount Massive Lakes is applying the same restriction to all club property until further notice. Although there has been some recent precipitation falling, it hasn't been enough to lessen the already significant fire danger that currently exists.
Please read more in this news release from the USFS, Leadville Ranger District.
Please read more in this news release from the USFS, Leadville Ranger District.
UPDATE: May 29th
Today we stocked 1,751 triploid rainbows. These fish averaged 16.9", weighing just under two pounds. We stocked lakes 5, 6, 9, 12, 18, 19, and 20. These fish were beginning to get stressed out with the warm temperatures and they will do much better in the lakes. Our next stocking will be June 25th.
UPDATE: May 24th
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Today we stocked 934 triploid rainbows into Lakes 4, 9, 12, 13, and 16. These fish were beginning to get sick and with the warm temperatures in the forecast we decided to begin stocking these fish early. They averaged 16.8" and weighed 30.2 ounces. These fish were scheduled to be stocked on June 4th. Rather then see them get sick and have a significant increase in mortality, it was the best decision to thin them out. We have nearly 3,000 of these fish remaining, which we will stock out on June 4th.
Brent Groenke General Manager |
UPDATE: April 30th
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Today we stocked our fingerling cutthroat. We stocked 2,475 into Lakes 2,3,4,5,7,8,12,15, and 20. These fish were 3" and will thrive in their lake environment. These cutthroat will provide additional unique fishing opportunities as soon as next summer. Our cutthroat spawning will begin in a couple weeks for our 2019 fingerlings
Brent Groenke General Manager |
UPDATE: April 24th
On April 23rd and 24th, we began our 2018 catchable rainbow stocking. We stocked a total of 3,011 rainbows (5,904 pounds) into Lakes 4,5,6,9,12,13,16,18,19, and 20. These rainbows looked great and averaged 16.9", weighing 31.4 ounces (nearly two pounds). Our unaccounted mortality took a significant hit for the second consecutive stocking this year. We lost 1,204 fish due to predators over the winter, accounting for 29% of the pond. These fish were sick last summer which makes them very vulnerable to predators from riding high and being weak. This completes the first stocking of the year. The next catchable rainbow stocking will be June 4th. If you would like to help out, contact Brent.
2018 Stocking Totals - 3,918 rainbows, 8,468 pounds.
Brent Groenke
General Manager
On April 23rd and 24th, we began our 2018 catchable rainbow stocking. We stocked a total of 3,011 rainbows (5,904 pounds) into Lakes 4,5,6,9,12,13,16,18,19, and 20. These rainbows looked great and averaged 16.9", weighing 31.4 ounces (nearly two pounds). Our unaccounted mortality took a significant hit for the second consecutive stocking this year. We lost 1,204 fish due to predators over the winter, accounting for 29% of the pond. These fish were sick last summer which makes them very vulnerable to predators from riding high and being weak. This completes the first stocking of the year. The next catchable rainbow stocking will be June 4th. If you would like to help out, contact Brent.
2018 Stocking Totals - 3,918 rainbows, 8,468 pounds.
Brent Groenke
General Manager
UPDATE: April 11th
With warm temperatures and strong winds over the last few days, the ice conditions have rapidly deteriorated at Mount Massive Lakes. Fishing is officially open today, April 11, 2018. Please remember that the 19" rule is still in effect, any fish over 19" must be returned to the water immediately. We stocked our super catchable rainbows one month ago and we will begin to stock our catchable rainbows within the next few weeks. Please stay off any remaining ice and refrain from using any muddy roads when possible.
Brent Groenke
General Manager
With warm temperatures and strong winds over the last few days, the ice conditions have rapidly deteriorated at Mount Massive Lakes. Fishing is officially open today, April 11, 2018. Please remember that the 19" rule is still in effect, any fish over 19" must be returned to the water immediately. We stocked our super catchable rainbows one month ago and we will begin to stock our catchable rainbows within the next few weeks. Please stay off any remaining ice and refrain from using any muddy roads when possible.
Brent Groenke
General Manager
UPDATE: March 13th
Today we stocked the remainder of the super catchable Kamloops rainbows. We stocked Lakes 5, 6, and 20 with 356 fish. The average length of these fish were 19.0", weighing 2.8 pounds. Every year we experience unaccounted mortality in our rearing ponds, which range from 325 (13%) to 3,292 (39%) depending on the pond, which is caused by predators. This spring, we experienced a 56% unaccounted mortality in Pond 2, where these super catchbles were all winter. This is a significant increase from only 13% a year ago. We hope to see better results in our catchable rearing ponds this summer, by experimenting with longer inlet pipes to move the fish into deeper water away from the predators. We will resume our catchable stocking as the ice begins to melt off the lakes, mid to late April. If you would like to help out, please contact Brent.
Today we stocked the remainder of the super catchable Kamloops rainbows. We stocked Lakes 5, 6, and 20 with 356 fish. The average length of these fish were 19.0", weighing 2.8 pounds. Every year we experience unaccounted mortality in our rearing ponds, which range from 325 (13%) to 3,292 (39%) depending on the pond, which is caused by predators. This spring, we experienced a 56% unaccounted mortality in Pond 2, where these super catchbles were all winter. This is a significant increase from only 13% a year ago. We hope to see better results in our catchable rearing ponds this summer, by experimenting with longer inlet pipes to move the fish into deeper water away from the predators. We will resume our catchable stocking as the ice begins to melt off the lakes, mid to late April. If you would like to help out, please contact Brent.
UPDATE: March 2nd
We did our first stocking today which consisted of our super catchable rainbows. We stocked lakes 4, 9, 12, 16, and 19. The average size of these kamloops rainbows were 19", weighing 2.9 lbs (45.7 oz). We decided to begin stocking this year class of fish through the ice to reduce the mortality of spawning behavior in the rearing pond. Last year, we experienced significant mortality with this species of fish as the ice began to come off. They started showing signs of spawning and mortality about two weeks ago. Stocking these fish now will give them a better opportunity to be available for fishing season versus trying to hold them for about one more month. We will continue to stock lakes 5, 6, 18, and 20 with the remaining super catchables next week as weather permits. Our first catchable rainbow stocking will take place at ice off.
We did our first stocking today which consisted of our super catchable rainbows. We stocked lakes 4, 9, 12, 16, and 19. The average size of these kamloops rainbows were 19", weighing 2.9 lbs (45.7 oz). We decided to begin stocking this year class of fish through the ice to reduce the mortality of spawning behavior in the rearing pond. Last year, we experienced significant mortality with this species of fish as the ice began to come off. They started showing signs of spawning and mortality about two weeks ago. Stocking these fish now will give them a better opportunity to be available for fishing season versus trying to hold them for about one more month. We will continue to stock lakes 5, 6, 18, and 20 with the remaining super catchables next week as weather permits. Our first catchable rainbow stocking will take place at ice off.
UPDATE: February 20-23rd
Mount Massive Lakes at Aquaculture America Conference, Las Vegas, NV
Brent and Brian attended the annual Aquaculture America Conference in Las Vegas. This is the largest aquaculture professional event in the US, and hosts experts from all segments of the aquaculture industry. This was a fantastic opportunity for our staff to learn the latest techniques and best practices as it relates to trout rearing, including education on pond construction, economics of wildlife/predator control, fish food alternatives, fish diseases and new veterinary directive feed control. It was a great opportunity for Brent and Brian to further their knowledge, expand their professional network, and validate that MML is a world class operation.
Mount Massive Lakes at Aquaculture America Conference, Las Vegas, NV
Brent and Brian attended the annual Aquaculture America Conference in Las Vegas. This is the largest aquaculture professional event in the US, and hosts experts from all segments of the aquaculture industry. This was a fantastic opportunity for our staff to learn the latest techniques and best practices as it relates to trout rearing, including education on pond construction, economics of wildlife/predator control, fish food alternatives, fish diseases and new veterinary directive feed control. It was a great opportunity for Brent and Brian to further their knowledge, expand their professional network, and validate that MML is a world class operation.
UPDATE: February 6th
We will be stocking our 2018 Triploid rainbows and Kamloops super catchables on April 30, June 4, 5, July 9, 30, and August 13. The Kamloops super catchables will be stocked at ice off to prevent rearing pond mortality from spawning behavior. We expect to stock nearly 15,400 fish this year. If you would like to help stock on any of these dates, please contact Brent at 719-293-5441.
Our water flows have been stable and we are still running water throughout the entire system. So far, we have had very little snowfall this winter, only 42.1” since October 1st. Last winter, from October 1st , 2016 to January 31st, 2017, MML had significantly more snow, totaling 73.1”. In order to have a good water year, we rely on late winter/spring snow storms which provide a lot of moisture to add to the current snowpack, along with a cool spring to allow spring runoff at a steady rate. Over the last five years, the average amount of snowfall from March through May has averaged 47.4”. According to USDA Colorado SNOTEL, the Arkansas River Basin is currently at 56% snowpack, compared to one year ago today when it was 159%. Although this number is hard to relate to the location of the club, Weston Pass has a satisfactory amount of snow.
The next Board meeting will be held on Saturday, April 28th, 2018, 9:30am at Rampart Supply, 1801 N. Union Blvd., in Colorado Springs. The BOD will be finalizing the 2018/2019 budget at this meeting. This is your club; Please attend and share your ideas.
We will be stocking our 2018 Triploid rainbows and Kamloops super catchables on April 30, June 4, 5, July 9, 30, and August 13. The Kamloops super catchables will be stocked at ice off to prevent rearing pond mortality from spawning behavior. We expect to stock nearly 15,400 fish this year. If you would like to help stock on any of these dates, please contact Brent at 719-293-5441.
Our water flows have been stable and we are still running water throughout the entire system. So far, we have had very little snowfall this winter, only 42.1” since October 1st. Last winter, from October 1st , 2016 to January 31st, 2017, MML had significantly more snow, totaling 73.1”. In order to have a good water year, we rely on late winter/spring snow storms which provide a lot of moisture to add to the current snowpack, along with a cool spring to allow spring runoff at a steady rate. Over the last five years, the average amount of snowfall from March through May has averaged 47.4”. According to USDA Colorado SNOTEL, the Arkansas River Basin is currently at 56% snowpack, compared to one year ago today when it was 159%. Although this number is hard to relate to the location of the club, Weston Pass has a satisfactory amount of snow.
The next Board meeting will be held on Saturday, April 28th, 2018, 9:30am at Rampart Supply, 1801 N. Union Blvd., in Colorado Springs. The BOD will be finalizing the 2018/2019 budget at this meeting. This is your club; Please attend and share your ideas.
UPDATE: January 8th
So far, the winter has seen pretty light snowfall compared to this time last year. Hopefully, we will see a change in the weather pattern that brings more snow to the higher terrain, especially as we approach the heavy snowfall months of March and April.
So far, the winter has seen pretty light snowfall compared to this time last year. Hopefully, we will see a change in the weather pattern that brings more snow to the higher terrain, especially as we approach the heavy snowfall months of March and April.
Winter Sampling, 2018
Our annual ice fishing/sampling program is underway. Still, lots of lakes yet to cover. If you're interested in helping out the Staff with this activity, please contact Brent.
Our annual ice fishing/sampling program is underway. Still, lots of lakes yet to cover. If you're interested in helping out the Staff with this activity, please contact Brent.
UPDATE: November 15th
Fishing has been closed for the season today, November 15th. Recent cold weather has iced over all of the lakes with the exception of a few inlets and outlets. Thank you for a great summer and have a safe winter. We look forward to seeing everybody next spring. We will begin our winter sampling (ice fishing) after the holidays. More information will be provided in the December Troutline.
Fishing has been closed for the season today, November 15th. Recent cold weather has iced over all of the lakes with the exception of a few inlets and outlets. Thank you for a great summer and have a safe winter. We look forward to seeing everybody next spring. We will begin our winter sampling (ice fishing) after the holidays. More information will be provided in the December Troutline.
UPDATE: July 17th
Today we stocked out the remaining catchable rainbow trout for 2017. We stocked 4,244 fish into lakes 4,5,6,9,12,18,19, and 20. These fish were 16.5", weighing nearly two pounds and looked great. These fish came from New Pond up by High Lake. New Pond experiences significant mortality from predators such as coyotes and eagles. We had a 39% unnaccounted mortality, 3,292 fish, (we shoot for 10% each year) which is very high. Thank-you to volunteers Jim Tims, Doc Watson, Bill Bennett, Caitlyn Blankenbeckler, and the Kinzle girls.
Overall, 2017 was the best stocking season since 2012. We increased total number stocked, average size, and total pounds. We stocked 12,034 kamloops rainbow trout with an average size of 34.7 ounces (2.2 pounds) reaching 23,409 pounds. We significantly increased the average size almost half of a pound. We anticipate to have plenty of fish for next years stocking season. We have over 3,000 extra 2018 rainbow trout in Hatchery Pond. We will add these fish to the ponds this fall, which will essentially put us back at zero mortality going into the winter. By topping the ponds off in the fall, predators will have less time to decimate the stocking class population before they get turned loose starting in spring. On top of stocking 4,244 fish, we moved an additional 897 to Pond Two for our 2018 super catchables. We now have 2,328 triploid rainbows for our next super catchable class.
Today we stocked out the remaining catchable rainbow trout for 2017. We stocked 4,244 fish into lakes 4,5,6,9,12,18,19, and 20. These fish were 16.5", weighing nearly two pounds and looked great. These fish came from New Pond up by High Lake. New Pond experiences significant mortality from predators such as coyotes and eagles. We had a 39% unnaccounted mortality, 3,292 fish, (we shoot for 10% each year) which is very high. Thank-you to volunteers Jim Tims, Doc Watson, Bill Bennett, Caitlyn Blankenbeckler, and the Kinzle girls.
Overall, 2017 was the best stocking season since 2012. We increased total number stocked, average size, and total pounds. We stocked 12,034 kamloops rainbow trout with an average size of 34.7 ounces (2.2 pounds) reaching 23,409 pounds. We significantly increased the average size almost half of a pound. We anticipate to have plenty of fish for next years stocking season. We have over 3,000 extra 2018 rainbow trout in Hatchery Pond. We will add these fish to the ponds this fall, which will essentially put us back at zero mortality going into the winter. By topping the ponds off in the fall, predators will have less time to decimate the stocking class population before they get turned loose starting in spring. On top of stocking 4,244 fish, we moved an additional 897 to Pond Two for our 2018 super catchables. We now have 2,328 triploid rainbows for our next super catchable class.
UPDATE: June 23rd
Today, we stocked 1,452 catchable kamloops rainbow trout into lakes 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 16, 18, and 19. These rainbows were 16.2" and weighed 28 ounces. These fish looked and went out great. After this stocking, we have stocked 7,790 catchable rainbows, 15,549 pounds, with an average of 35.7 ounces, exceeding the MML goal of 28 ounces so far this year. Our next stocking will be during the week of July 4th. This week, we also stocked 1,370 fingerling brown trout. These brown trout went into lakes 6, 8, 9, and 18 at 3". You can expect to begin catching these fish next summer.
Today, we stocked 1,452 catchable kamloops rainbow trout into lakes 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 16, 18, and 19. These rainbows were 16.2" and weighed 28 ounces. These fish looked and went out great. After this stocking, we have stocked 7,790 catchable rainbows, 15,549 pounds, with an average of 35.7 ounces, exceeding the MML goal of 28 ounces so far this year. Our next stocking will be during the week of July 4th. This week, we also stocked 1,370 fingerling brown trout. These brown trout went into lakes 6, 8, 9, and 18 at 3". You can expect to begin catching these fish next summer.
Last week after stocking catchable rainbow trout from Rainbow Pond, we were able clean and make repairs so the pond would be more efficient in the future. On June 12th, we filled the pond and began moving 2018 triploid rainbows. We moved 3,500 fish, from Pond 1, which will be in there until next June when they get stocked into the lakes. These fish are 12" and we expect them to be almost 16" and 25 ounces going into the winter.
Update: June 5th
On Monday, June 5, we stocked a total of 2,196 kamloops rainbow trout into lakes 4, 5, 6, 9, 12, 16, 18, 19, and 20. These fish looked great and measured 16.5", weighing just under two pounds. We took these fish out of rainbow pond. Between last summer and June 5, we experienced a 30% unaccounted mortality, which is a significant increase from the 10% we plan for each year. Although this is a common issue with so many eagles, hawks, and coyotes around, we have taken action to help prevent this in the future. By keeping our extra rainbows after our fall grading (which are now in Hatchery Pond) we will be able to top our ponds off going into each winter allowing us to start at 0% unaccounted mortality later in the season, therefore shortening the amount of time for predators to decrease our rearing pond populations. This will not be noticed until the 2018 fishing season. By the looks of our numbers, we are still on pace to stock a total of over 14,000 catchable rainbows this summer.
On Monday, June 5, we stocked a total of 2,196 kamloops rainbow trout into lakes 4, 5, 6, 9, 12, 16, 18, 19, and 20. These fish looked great and measured 16.5", weighing just under two pounds. We took these fish out of rainbow pond. Between last summer and June 5, we experienced a 30% unaccounted mortality, which is a significant increase from the 10% we plan for each year. Although this is a common issue with so many eagles, hawks, and coyotes around, we have taken action to help prevent this in the future. By keeping our extra rainbows after our fall grading (which are now in Hatchery Pond) we will be able to top our ponds off going into each winter allowing us to start at 0% unaccounted mortality later in the season, therefore shortening the amount of time for predators to decrease our rearing pond populations. This will not be noticed until the 2018 fishing season. By the looks of our numbers, we are still on pace to stock a total of over 14,000 catchable rainbows this summer.
Update: May 1st
Today we stocked an additional 2,453 kamloops rainbows into Lakes 1,5,6,9,12,13,16,17,18, and 19. These fish looked great and went out very good. They were 17.0 inches and weighed 2 pounds each. This additional 4,810 pounds of fish stocked concludes our May stocking. Our next stocking will take place on June 5th.
Today we stocked an additional 2,453 kamloops rainbows into Lakes 1,5,6,9,12,13,16,17,18, and 19. These fish looked great and went out very good. They were 17.0 inches and weighed 2 pounds each. This additional 4,810 pounds of fish stocked concludes our May stocking. Our next stocking will take place on June 5th.
More Fish Go Out: April 20th
Today we stocked 1,262 cutbow super catchables. These fish were the same size as the stocking last week. We stocked the same lakes. These fish were not doing well in the rearing pond environment due to their recent spawning activities. With the cutbows being crowded and confined to a small area, they began fighting with each other and showing aggressive spawning behavior, causing significant mortality. With over 183 mortalities in the past week, we decided to get these fish stocked into the lakes rather then lose them in the rearing pond. These cutbows mature and begin spawning at age three. These fish were over three years old (42 months) and mature to spawn. Overall, these cutbows did very well for the size they reached. We only had a 9% unaccounted mortality (fish we do not see leave the pond from predators such as eagles and coyotes) which is great for that size of fish. We will complete the first stocking with kamloops rainbows on May 1st. These kamloops rainbows average 16.2" and weigh 28 ounces.
Along with stocking 1,677 super catchables - nearly 5,000 pounds - we stocked 12 G-I-A-N-T rainbows which averaged over 8 pounds each! Thank you to member Dr. James Berwick for his donation to MML for the purchase of these fantastic rainbow trout. These fish were stocked throughout the club.
Today we stocked 1,262 cutbow super catchables. These fish were the same size as the stocking last week. We stocked the same lakes. These fish were not doing well in the rearing pond environment due to their recent spawning activities. With the cutbows being crowded and confined to a small area, they began fighting with each other and showing aggressive spawning behavior, causing significant mortality. With over 183 mortalities in the past week, we decided to get these fish stocked into the lakes rather then lose them in the rearing pond. These cutbows mature and begin spawning at age three. These fish were over three years old (42 months) and mature to spawn. Overall, these cutbows did very well for the size they reached. We only had a 9% unaccounted mortality (fish we do not see leave the pond from predators such as eagles and coyotes) which is great for that size of fish. We will complete the first stocking with kamloops rainbows on May 1st. These kamloops rainbows average 16.2" and weigh 28 ounces.
Along with stocking 1,677 super catchables - nearly 5,000 pounds - we stocked 12 G-I-A-N-T rainbows which averaged over 8 pounds each! Thank you to member Dr. James Berwick for his donation to MML for the purchase of these fantastic rainbow trout. These fish were stocked throughout the club.
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First Stocking of 2017: April 14th
Today we stocked 415 super catchable cutbows. These fish averaged 19.2" and weigh about 3 pounds, with some fish much larger than that. We stocked a total of 1,222 pounds into Lakes 1,4,5,6,9,12,13,16,18,19, and 20. Please note that cutbows have a bronze colored background compared to a rainbow which has a silver colored background. For the first stocking of the season, we shoot for 15% super catchables and 85% catchables. Our next stocking will consist of 3,765 catchables to complete our first stocking. This stocking will take place in the next couple of weeks. If you would like to help out please contact Brent at 719-293-5441. |
Winter Sampling
In between pushing all the snow around, the guys have been busy with winter lake sampling activities. There are a number lakes remaining to be fished, so if you're interested please let Brent know. Here's a few nice ones. The brook trout came out of Lake 13 (Johnson), was 21.1" and weighed 3.1 lbs.!
In between pushing all the snow around, the guys have been busy with winter lake sampling activities. There are a number lakes remaining to be fished, so if you're interested please let Brent know. Here's a few nice ones. The brook trout came out of Lake 13 (Johnson), was 21.1" and weighed 3.1 lbs.!
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It's getting deep....
Well, at least the snow is! So far, the winter of 2016/2017 has seen near record levels of snowfall. As of the end of January, the upper Arkansas valley snow-pack is approximately 160% of normal. That's encouraging news for our summer water supplies, and we haven't even gotten to the snowiest months of March/April.
Fellow member Don Holmgren was nice enough to share some of his recent winter images from around the club. Thanks, Don!
Well, at least the snow is! So far, the winter of 2016/2017 has seen near record levels of snowfall. As of the end of January, the upper Arkansas valley snow-pack is approximately 160% of normal. That's encouraging news for our summer water supplies, and we haven't even gotten to the snowiest months of March/April.
Fellow member Don Holmgren was nice enough to share some of his recent winter images from around the club. Thanks, Don!
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Brent Groenke - General Manager
Brent grew up in Morden, Manitoba, Canada. He attended University of Minnesota-Crookston from 2004-2008 and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Resource Management. During university, Brent competed in NCAA Ice Hockey and Golf. Upon completing university, Brent moved to Montrose, Colorado to work with Colorado Parks and Wildlife as an aquatic research technician and fisheries management technician from 2008-2012. Brent began his career at MML during the winter of 2013 and became general manager May 1, 2016. Brent enjoys hunting, fishing, golfing, and riding motorcycles during his free time.
Brent grew up in Morden, Manitoba, Canada. He attended University of Minnesota-Crookston from 2004-2008 and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Resource Management. During university, Brent competed in NCAA Ice Hockey and Golf. Upon completing university, Brent moved to Montrose, Colorado to work with Colorado Parks and Wildlife as an aquatic research technician and fisheries management technician from 2008-2012. Brent began his career at MML during the winter of 2013 and became general manager May 1, 2016. Brent enjoys hunting, fishing, golfing, and riding motorcycles during his free time.
Bryan Hamacher – Operations Manager
Bryan grew up in Simla, Colorado for his entire childhood. While there he grew up hunting and fishing, as well as playing sports. After graduating high school he attended Western State Colorado University in Gunnison, Colorado where he received a bachelor of science in wildlife biology. While in Gunnison he worked for the Colorado Parks and Wildlife area aquatic fish biologist for three years. Bryan can be found fishing Blue Mesa reservoir year around, as that is his favorite place to be. Bryan then moved to Glenwood Springs, Colorado where he worked at Crystal River State Fish hatchery as a fish culturist. This hatchery was a brood unit that produced the majority of Colorado’s rainbow trout eggs. After working at Crystal River Bryan worked with the native fish conservation biologist in Glenwood Springs. Bryan began his career at MML in May of 2015. Bryan can be found hunting, fishing, camping, boating, and skiing during his free time.
Bryan grew up in Simla, Colorado for his entire childhood. While there he grew up hunting and fishing, as well as playing sports. After graduating high school he attended Western State Colorado University in Gunnison, Colorado where he received a bachelor of science in wildlife biology. While in Gunnison he worked for the Colorado Parks and Wildlife area aquatic fish biologist for three years. Bryan can be found fishing Blue Mesa reservoir year around, as that is his favorite place to be. Bryan then moved to Glenwood Springs, Colorado where he worked at Crystal River State Fish hatchery as a fish culturist. This hatchery was a brood unit that produced the majority of Colorado’s rainbow trout eggs. After working at Crystal River Bryan worked with the native fish conservation biologist in Glenwood Springs. Bryan began his career at MML in May of 2015. Bryan can be found hunting, fishing, camping, boating, and skiing during his free time.
Josh Whitton- Operations Technician
Josh grew up in Lakewood, Colorado, and as a young child mainly watched T.V. and played baseball. After graduating high school, he attended Western State Colorado University earning a Bachelor's Degree in Wildlife Biology. Josh then went on to work for several different Colorado Parks and Wildlife offices as a fisheries technician, before joining the staff at Mount Massive Lakes. His hobbies include fishing, hunting, snowboarding, hiking, fly-tying, and watching football. He enjoys spending all of his time outside in the mountains of Colorado and loves traveling the state, trying to see everything it has to offer.
Josh grew up in Lakewood, Colorado, and as a young child mainly watched T.V. and played baseball. After graduating high school, he attended Western State Colorado University earning a Bachelor's Degree in Wildlife Biology. Josh then went on to work for several different Colorado Parks and Wildlife offices as a fisheries technician, before joining the staff at Mount Massive Lakes. His hobbies include fishing, hunting, snowboarding, hiking, fly-tying, and watching football. He enjoys spending all of his time outside in the mountains of Colorado and loves traveling the state, trying to see everything it has to offer.
