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Pro Trout Ice Fishing Lakes Western Colorado RSL
- Published Date: December 25, 2025
- Fishing
- Colorado
- Updated Date: December 27, 2025
Summary
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Pro Ice Fishing Action
Pro-Level Trout Ice Fishing in Western Colorado
When you're ready to take your ice fishing game to the next level, Jason Shafer's pro-level trip delivers the real deal. This isn't your typical weekend warrior setup – we're talking six hours of focused, high-level ice fishing on some of Western Colorado's most productive lakes. Jason hand-picks locations based on current ice conditions and seasonal trout patterns, so you're always fishing where the action is hottest. Perfect for experienced anglers who want to refine their technique and land trophy-caliber Brown, Lake, and Rainbow Trout in stunning mountain settings.
What to Expect on the Ice
This trip runs a full six hours, giving you plenty of time to work different spots and dial in your approach. Jason's been guiding these waters for years, and he knows exactly where the big trout hold up during winter months. We'll hit multiple locations depending on ice thickness and fish activity – sometimes that means moving between deeper basins for Lake Trout, then sliding over to shallower structure for Browns and Rainbows. The pace stays active, but there's method to everything we do. You'll learn to read underwater structure through the ice, understand how weather patterns affect fish behavior, and pick up advanced jigging techniques that separate the pros from the weekend crowd. Jason provides water throughout the day, and you're welcome to pack your own snacks and drinks to keep energy levels up during those long sessions.
Advanced Techniques & Gear
We're using precision equipment designed for serious ice fishing – sensitive rods that telegraph the lightest bites, reels with smooth drags for fighting big trout in tight quarters, and electronics that show you exactly what's happening below the ice. Jason will walk you through advanced jigging patterns, bait presentation tricks, and how to adjust your setup based on fish mood and water conditions. You'll learn to work different depths simultaneously, recognize subtle strike indicators, and handle trophy trout through eight-inch holes without losing them. The focus stays on technique refinement and maximizing your catch potential rather than just hoping for luck. Every move has purpose, from hole placement to lure selection, and Jason explains the reasoning behind each decision so you can apply these skills on your own future trips.
Top Catches This Season
Brown Trout are the craftiest predators under the ice, and Western Colorado's lakes hold some absolute beauties. These fish typically run 16 to 24 inches, with occasional monsters pushing 26 inches or better. Browns stay active all winter but require finesse – they're notorious for following lures without committing, then striking when you least expect it. Peak action usually happens during low-light periods, early morning or late afternoon, when they move up from deeper water to hunt. What makes Browns so exciting is their fighting ability in cold water – they'll make powerful runs and use every inch of line you give them. Jason targets them around rocky drop-offs and submerged timber where they ambush smaller fish.
Rainbow Trout bring pure energy to ice fishing, often hitting lures aggressively and putting on aerial shows even in winter conditions. Most Rainbows here range from 14 to 20 inches, with their silver sides flashing brilliant colors under the ice. They school up more than Browns, so when you find one, there are usually others nearby. Rainbows respond well to active presentations – Jason will show you how to work lures with quick, erratic movements that trigger their predatory instincts. They're most active during midday hours when sunlight penetrates the ice, making them perfect targets during the heart of our six-hour session. Their willingness to bite and spectacular fights make them crowd favorites among serious ice anglers.
Lake Trout represent the true giants of Colorado ice fishing, with fish commonly reaching 24 to 30 inches and occasional specimens exceeding three feet. These deep-water predators require different tactics – heavier jigs, deeper presentations, and patience to work the 40 to 80-foot depths where they cruise. Lakers are most active during winter months, making ice fishing one of the best times to target trophy specimens. When you hook into a big Lake Trout, the fight is unlike anything else – long, powerful runs combined with their massive size creates battles that can last ten minutes or more. Jason knows the specific basins and underwater points where these fish concentrate, giving you the best shot at landing the fish of a lifetime.
Time to Book Your Spot
If you're serious about ice fishing and ready to fish with one of Western Colorado's top-rated guides, this trip delivers everything you need to elevate your skills. Jason's expertise, combined with access to premier fishing locations and focus on advanced techniques, makes this a world-class learning experience that pays dividends for years to come. The trip accommodates two guests with room for additional participants, so bring a fishing buddy or book solo and focus entirely on technique. Remember to secure your Colorado fishing license and required location permits before the trip. These pro-level sessions book quickly during peak ice season, especially when conditions are prime and the fish are biting. Don't wait – reserve your spot and get ready to experience Western Colorado ice fishing at its absolute best.
Learn more about the animals
Brown Trout
Browns are the smart ones - they'll test your skills every time. These golden-brown beauties average 8-24 inches but can push into trophy territory at 30+ inches. They love deep pools and structure during the day, moving shallow to feed at night. Under the ice, look for them suspended near drop-offs and rocky structure in 15-30 feet of water. Winter is prime time since they stay active in cold water when other species slow down. What makes them special? They fight hard and taste fantastic. Plus, they're incredibly wary - landing a good brown feels earned. Here's a local trick: downsize your jig and use subtle movements. Browns study your presentation, so less is often more with these fish.
Lake Trout
Lakers are the giants of our deep, cold lakes - true trophies that can live decades and reach 40+ pounds. These grey-green char with cream markings spend most of their time in deep water, often 30-80 feet down. They're perfectly built for our high-altitude lakes where oxygen stays high year-round. Through the ice is actually prime time since they move up from summer depths and become more accessible. What makes them special? Size, strength, and the challenge of fishing deep water with precision. They're also fantastic table fare. The key with lakers is patience and heavy jigs - they live slow and deliberate lives. My go-to tip: use a quality fish finder and work your jig right off the bottom where they cruise for food.
Rainbow Trout
Rainbows are the acrobats of the trout world, and they'll give you a show every time. Most run 8-24 inches with that signature pink stripe and spotted tail. They prefer clean, cold water and you'll find them at various depths depending on season. Through the ice, they often cruise mid-water column around 10-20 feet, especially near inlet areas. They stay active all winter, making them perfect for ice fishing. What guests love most? The fight - rainbows jump, run, and never give up easy. They're also excellent eating with mild, flaky meat. Here's something I've learned over the years: rainbows respond well to small, bright jigs with erratic action. Try a quick lift-and-drop motion to trigger their aggressive strikes.
