My brother and I got intel that grayling are still stocked in Steamboat Lake. We wanted to cross this fish off our list, so we packed up and made the effort. Dad came along for the hike as well. A long drive and steep hike later we found them. Most were pretty underwhelming in size but we did manage a few decent ones. The best grayling we could manage was 11 inches. Most were in the 6-8 inch range. Had plenty of 6-12 inch cutthroat to keep us occupied as well.

We tried several spoons with good results. My advice would be to take heavier spoons like Kastmasters and modify them with small single hooks. We were having trouble with hook-ups because of how small the fish were sometimes. Also had some success fly fishing, but you will need waders to get away from the trees and brush on the bank.

The lake is pretty accessible all the way around, with a few spots that will cause some difficulty. The deepest part is the west end against the rock slope. Looks like it might reach over 20' in some areas. The shallowest part is the south end.

Only rating a 4 because of the small size, but consistent action and a not so common fish made up for it!

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