"Born to be Wild" - the East River
by Karen Christopherson
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The East River - a misnomer for a real pretty river in the middle of
Colorado's high country. Flowing south from Emerald Lake, north of Crested
Butte, this river makes its way to Almont, where it joins with the Taylor
to create the well-known fishing haunt, the Gunnison.
Upstream from this junction, a portion of the East River is a Wild Trout
Stream. This section starts at the bridge leading into the Roaring Judy
Fish Hatchery and continues downstream for one mile. The trout in this
river were Born to be Wild, while their cousins at the hatchery go on to
live in other rivers of Colorado.
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The Roaring Judy Fish Hatchery. Who was Roaring Judy??
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The East is nestled in a valley north of Gunnison - this is ranching
country! Up the road, at Crested Butte, lies Xtreme skiing and mountain
bike territory. But here, on the East, you are taken back in time. Things
haven't changed too much around here, despite the growth in other parts
of the state.
Grassy slopes lie on either side of the valley, rising to 12,000 foot
peaks. It's quiet, the river is roaring along its rocky bed - this is a
great place to be!
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Some rocky bars make good fishing spots
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How to get there?
From Gunnison, travel north on state hwy 135. At Almont, take the left
fork, continuing north on 135. The hatchery is obvious. The Wild Trout
section starts at their bridge and continues downstream for about 1 mile.
Another 3 miles or so and the East meets the Taylor at Almont. There is
access at the hatchery and downstream. A short walk through the trees brings
you to the river - look for deer and hawks!
The river flow is dependent on run-off. No dam upstream! So check the
stream flow.
Rules:
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From upstream boundary at Roaring Judy SFU, downstream to Taylor River: Artificial flies only. Bag and possession limit for trout is 2 fish under
12 inches. Taking of Kokanee Salmon is prohibited.
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From Roaring Judy hatchery
outlet downstream to Roaring Judy SFU: Fishing prohibited
Aug.1 to Oct. 31 |
Where to stay?
There are a few resorts offering cabins near Almont. Crested Butte
is a cute town, upriver, where Victorians have been restored and good bars
can be found.
Resources:
 Click
here to buy a NEW Ebook about Trout fishing on
Colorado State lands - includes info about the East
River
Click
here to buy an Angling Guide for the
Gunnison/Crested Butte Area by Michael Shook
Info on the State Wildlife Area from the Division
of Wildlife can be found by
clicking here
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Gotta love these rocks - no flies getting caught on the trees!
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