Low Snowfall Impacts Yampa River Fishing Season

"Devastating," "worrying," and "unsettling" - these are the words guides like Ryan Herbert, owner of Yampa Valley Anglers, are using to describe the upcoming fishing season on the Yampa and other local rivers. We're standing on the banks of the Yampa, the sound of gentle current a stark contrast to the ominous forecast. The river's tranquil surface belies the concerns of those who make their living from its waters.

This year's snowfall total of 171 inches is down from the 10-year average of 289 inches, according to Steamboat Ski Resort tracking data. To put that into perspective, the last three winters saw significantly more snow - 302, 389, and 448 inches, respectively. The impact of this dry winter is already being felt, with guides like Herbert and Johnny Spillane, owner of Steamboat Flyfisher, preparing for the worst. "We're undertaking historic preparations amid this drought," Herbert says, his voice laced with a mix of concern and determination. "It's not looking good, but we're hoping on a wet spring and for the anticipated low water levels to be at the historic averages. Albeit, with bated breath."

As we walk along the river, the warm sun beating down on our skin, it's clear that low water levels are only part of the problem. The real concern is what happens when the sun beats down on these shallow waters - water temperatures can rise rapidly, posing a significant threat to the trout population. "Once temperatures hit 66 or 67 degrees, it gets dangerous for trout," says Jon Almen, a guide with Straightline Sports. "At 68 degrees, I wouldn't touch the river." Almen explains that guides often carry thermometers to check the water temperatures as they fish, a precaution that will become even more crucial in the coming months.

The guides are already adapting, looking to high alpine streams and lake fishing as alternative options. "We're very fortunate that we have so many other safer options than the Yampa," Spillane says, trying to find a silver lining in an otherwise bleak situation. Scott Graham, manager at North Park Anglers, is setting his sights on lake fishing and smallmouth bass and pike, a shift that may require clients to adjust their expectations. "Clients may need to get used to the idea of still-water fishing," Graham says, acknowledging that it may not be ideal but is a necessary response to the changing conditions.

As the season approaches, the guides are bracing themselves for the challenges ahead. Early morning trips will become the norm, as anglers seek to avoid the midday heat that can push water temperatures into the danger zone. "Anglers should expect to go out early in the mornings, before temperatures get dangerous in the midday heat," Graham advises, his words a reminder of the delicate balance between human activity and the natural world.

The sun is beginning to set over the Yampa, casting a golden glow over the river. The sound of the current is soothing, but the concerns of the guides linger, a reminder of the uncertain future that lies ahead. As the stars begin to twinkle in the night sky, the river's tranquility is a stark contrast to the worries that plague those who depend on it.