URGENT UPDATE: A recent fly fishing trip to Lime Creek has revealed the stark impact of Durango’s ongoing drought, leaving anglers scrambling to adapt to challenging conditions. Local fishermen Kim and her partner faced an alarming drop in water levels, with Lime Creek reportedly at an all-time low of just four inches deep.
As of October 20, 2023, the Animas River and its tributaries are experiencing unprecedented drought conditions, which have severely affected fish habitats. With a combined 31 years of experience in fly fishing, the duo was not prepared for the drastic changes they encountered.
Upon arriving at Lime Creek, they found the serene setting was misleading; the shallow waters meant fish were easily spooked. Kim and her partner quickly realized they needed to modify their strategies. “Brook trout in 4 inches of water see and hear everything,” Kim explained, emphasizing the need for stealth and finesse.
To improve their chances, they adjusted their fishing techniques. This included moving away from the stream to avoid casting shadows and switching to finer tippets for better presentation. The results were mixed, with Kim’s Royal Coachman attracting more fish than her partner’s Royal Wulff.
Despite their initial struggles, they managed to catch a respectable number of fish by utilizing the new techniques, demonstrating that even in adverse conditions, there’s still potential for success. After an exhausting hour-and-a-half journey out via Old Lime Creek Road, they regrouped and devised a plan for their next outing.
The following week, the duo traveled to Lake Capote, where they experienced a fishing bonanza. With the drought still affecting local waters, they were relieved to lose count of the 8-inch and 9-inch smallmouth bass they caught, along with several 14-inch trout. The fishing was so productive that traditional techniques like shadow management became unnecessary.
This experience not only highlights the challenges posed by drought but also showcases the resilience and adaptability of local anglers. As drought conditions continue to linger, the fishing community in and around Durango remains hopeful for improved water levels in the future.
What’s Next: Local fishermen and conservation groups are closely monitoring water levels and advocating for sustainable practices to help restore fish habitats. As conditions evolve, anglers are encouraged to stay informed and adapt their techniques accordingly.
Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops, and share your own fishing experiences during these challenging times!
