Made my first trip of the season to Coldwater today. Almost turned back, the sky was overcast and the temperature was a bit chilly as I approached Castle Rock. But I decided to drive on up the rest of the way since I had already been driving for an hour. Glad I continued! I arrived at the lake around 8:30. I had actually ascended ABOVE the clouds and it was bright and sunny with just a mild breeze. I launched my new 10' porta-bote (which I am very glad I now own) and headed for my "secret sweet spot". On the way there I nailed a nice 16 incher trolling my black wooly bugger. The water is a bit off color though not too bad. Water temperature at the surface was a consistent 53 degrees. When I got to my favorite hole I began casting my bugger and letting it sink to the bottom. One quick twitch brought an instant response! I was rewarded with a nice 21 inch beauty that fought like a 10 lb. steelie! I think that's what I like best about Coldwater, is the vicious strikes followed by the hard fought battle of these now-native trout. Fished for six hours, hooked and landed 8 trout all 14 inches and larger. When I went back to the launch I noticed some people still fishing very close by. Sure enough, they were bait fishing with power bait. I reminded them that Coldwater is an artificial lure, single barbless hook lake only. Fortunately they were respectful and left.

Great day, great weather! I'll be back probably next month when it warms and the fish are surfacing. Tight lines!

---