WDTU Annual Spring Fishing for Conservation at Rainbow Falls

By Matt Rivera

On March 18, 2023, thirty-seven hearty anglers and supporters of West Denver Trout Unlimited braved temperatures ranging between 12-14 as they approached the gate at Rainbow Falls for a 0900 starting time. The sun was out and winds were light, making the air temperature feel much higher than well above the report from our car thermometers. After check-in, grabbing a breakfast snack or two and a logo’d angler gift, the anglers geared up (many were already geared up) and headed to their favorite fishing location.

Richard Johnson offered numerous recommendations for patterns to start the day along with the warning that the fish might be a bit lethargic until mid-morning when the sun warmed the water a bit, however we both noticed a number of bent rods from our vantage point early on. The fishing was so good, that close to a third of the anglers continued fishing through most of lunch! All, or at least most did work their way to the barn for lunch. Lunch was prepared by David Dudden and his two assistants, Troy Hayes and 1st timer, Ross Seymor. With David’s guidance, the steak and chicken were grilled to perfection and we all enjoyed a warm meal and some desert.

During lunch, Paul Bunker gave a short presentation about the Yellowstone project, including mentioning the goal of removing all fish in the park that are not cutthroat trout. Paul did attract some interest in the project and many attendees were disappointed to find out that the project was full for this year. After Paul’s presentation, Richard Johnson gave a brief history of Rainbow Falls, including mentioning that he suspects that Rainbow Falls, as Colorado’s first fish hatchery, was probably responsible for stocking the park with rainbows!

We have been very fortunate to be welcomed back to Rainbow Falls every year for the last eight years, Richard Johnson and his family continue to be gracious to us and we, as a chapter are very grateful for the privilege. Every year, I enjoy seeing dads fishing with their fathers, or grandfathers with their grandsons. Seeing this brings back fond memories of fishing with my father and while I no longer have that opportunity, I was very excited to see Bill Threlkeld bring his son, Wes and his grandchildren, Emma and Wilder. Additionally, two other friends bring their daughters to fish and enjoy a day in the mountains, Daniel Cohen and daughter Willa and Troy Bloom with Ava and Brynn. I should also add that Dan and Troy were responsible for another four new attendees this year!

I have to thank all of the supporters who came out to support us, David and his crew for providing a wonderful meal (every year); long time, multiyear supporters, Mick DeSantis, Jon Weimer, Fred Portillo, Bill Threlkeld and Kurt Sunderland; these folks either have not missed more than two years, and a few have not missed a single trip! I also need to thank Laura Beer for coming out to help the youngsters (and those not so youngsters willing to learn) learn some flyfishing skills. I look forward to hosting the 9th annual next March, here’s hoping we can get all who joined this year and few new folks as well!

Matt Rivera is Treasurer of West Denver Trout Unlimited board of directors