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River: Arkansas River Below Pueblo Reservoir
Big Snake
Post By: moosegoose      Posted: 8/1/2012 10:20:35 PM     Points: 1850    
So I was on the Ark below Pueblo the other day. There was a updated already submitted so I skipped that part.

However, I thought I would just give you guys fair warning. I spotted a big enough snake that even made me jump. It was actually large enough that it prompted me to call DOW. I am still not exactly sure what I saw. But it was about 7'-8' and fast.

Watch where you step!
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/2/2012 1:13:35 PM     Points: 25    
Oh my! this post is useless without pics.
 Reply by: bluecollarguy      Posted: 8/2/2012 1:15:50 PM     Points: 43    
I've seen a few very large bull snake over the years that would have most people running for cover...any idea of the color
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/2/2012 1:18:30 PM     Points: 0    
That fishery is one of the top 10 fisheries in the united states. please consider submitting a conditions report. i would like to know if the baetis hatch is in full swing or if i should bring my nightcrawler setups. Thanks for the heads up on the snake, sounds like the burmese pythons may be moving west from the everglades. has anyone tried dynamic lures down there, was thinking they might work well too. tight lines
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/2/2012 1:24:39 PM     Points: 25    
ranger 620, i recommend a dyanmic hd trout pattern. it's the bomb. dynamic lures are the best, those guys rock.
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/2/2012 1:26:51 PM     Points: 0    
Ranger619, any particular pattern in the dynamic you can recommend? why the the handle ranger619? mine is eerily similar. have you seen the snakes down there too? wondering if i should pack some personal protection this weekend when i go?
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/2/2012 1:30:23 PM     Points: 25    
ranger 620, as i stated in previous post, i recommend the hd trout pattern. yes, I have encountered numerous snakes on many quests on the ark, I use pepper spray as my choice of protection against snakes, as it will not harm them, only slow them down.
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/2/2012 1:33:02 PM     Points: 0    
ranger619

I don't understand why so many are so unwilling to share info and tips on the forum anymore. I meerly asked for guidance as to color pattern...i can read that you use hd's. what happened to fisherman helping fisherman get into fish? isn't this what the site is all about. as for the snake advice i am conserned about slowing down a snake that is 8 ft. long. I may bring machete instead
 Reply by: FishSeal      Posted: 8/2/2012 1:36:38 PM     Points: 4437    
Ranger620...
619 said the trout pattern. I suggest you check out their website: [log in for link] and find the trout or glimmer trout.

Just saying. I hope you get into some good fish down there.

FS
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/2/2012 1:37:52 PM     Points: 25    
ranger 620, I suggest you get out, work at it, perform some due dilligence, the reward is much better than being a poacher. machete seems extreme for the snakes on the ark. i use pepper spray as to not harm them, giving myself ample time to escape. the snakes will be fine once the pepper spray wears off. since u seem to want detailed info on the ark, i would hire a guide, or crowd somebody you see doing well. i'm done
 Reply by: nightangler      Posted: 8/2/2012 1:39:38 PM     Points: 1278    
Moosegoose - Thanks for the heads up. I am moving to P-lo West tomorrow and Saturday and was planning on fishing the river east of the dam on Sunday if I get everything done.

Ranger619 - I dont think this post was useless without a pic and i know many others will agree. Why does it have to have a picture?? He was merely giving everyone a heads up...

Ranger620 - If you actually read what the OP wrote, he clearly states "there was a update already submitted". Perhaps you should invest in FXR+ so you can past conditions reports. Also, Ranger619 told you to use the trout pattern. There are 3: glimmer trout, natural trout, and brown trout. I personally prefer the glimmer trout or the borwn trout but I know others that swear by the natural trout pattern. I have had succes on every HD trout lure I've bought, regardless of what the pattern is. Different ones work on different days, try them out!!!!!!
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/2/2012 1:56:32 PM     Points: 0    
619 Simmer down. I agree with you I should hire a guide to figure out this complex and downright beautiful fishery. I ran across a guy who seems to have it dialed in , Steel City guide services. I think it will be a $450 investment well worth it that may pay dividends for me for years to come on this world class fishery. Has anyone used them that can recommend them. He really seemed dialed in over the phone....any help is appreciated.
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/2/2012 1:58:44 PM     Points: 0    
NightAngler - Great advice on the FXR+, I may look into. Not sure if it's worth the $ but I'll explore it. also thanks for the tips on the hd lures/ i hear the trout love to chew them up. i'll post pics if i do any good with them.
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/2/2012 2:09:46 PM     Points: 25    
nightangler, A pic would help immensely for appropriate species identification. Is it a snake common to s.e. colorado, or is a pet that was released, or escaped. I apologize for not stating the "glimmer" on the hd trout pattern, my bad. Ranger620, if you are able to fish the ark, please post pics, and do a conditions update. tight lines
 Reply by: nightangler      Posted: 8/2/2012 2:17:49 PM     Points: 1278    
Ranger619 - I guess a pic would help you identify the exact species of fish and what not but that doesnt make the OP worthless.

Ranger620 - The FXR+ side is 100% worth it. I was hesitant at first because $40 is gas money to go fishing but after paying the money it was immediately clear how helpful the + side is. Having access to historical conditions reports is wirth its weight in gold!!!!!! I have never used a guide but from the pictures I see SteeCityGuides post on here and the amount of knowledge he has, I bet it woudl be well worth the money if you can afford it.
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/2/2012 2:19:09 PM     Points: 0    
I just had a thouight, with all this talk about snakes on the ark has anyone tried throwing any of the snake pattern bass lures down there for those trout. I may have to try this, could be a wall hanger brown with my name on it waiting for a snake snack?
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/2/2012 2:25:06 PM     Points: 25    
good thought ranger620, i've not tried that, but I caught a sucker down there on a hotdog chunk. who would have thought?
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/2/2012 2:25:45 PM     Points: 25    
nightangler, sorry man, I am a visual person. thats all.
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/2/2012 2:38:55 PM     Points: 0    
this is the lure I have, i will try it and submit a report. I will be there Sat if anyone wants to meet up and experiment with snake patterns.
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/2/2012 2:41:01 PM     Points: 25    
ranger 620, not a good pic, as that looks like a salamander to me however, it could be a snake. If that is a snake, what species is it?
 Reply by: nightangler      Posted: 8/2/2012 2:51:47 PM     Points: 1278    
No need to apologize, I understand where you are coming from, just didnt think it made the post worthless as we will all be watching out steps carefully. Between cliffs falling at the rez and snakes on the river, fishing P-lo is like going to war lol.

That snake lure is pretty awesome man. I've never seen one like that. I bet you would have some luck working it in any of the random coves at the rez. My fishing partner and I saw 2 different snakes (small little guys, took a second to figure out what was making the "v" wake in the water) in Turkey Creek Cove a few weeks back. Does it stay on the top of the water and 'slither' with all those joints in it?

And Ranger619 - I think that looks a lot like a snake. The treble hook in the middle looks to be in the perfect spot as I would picture a fish seeing it from below and striking it right in the meat of the snake. If it were a salamander, it would have legs on it.
 Reply by: Mr.Pink      Posted: 8/2/2012 2:53:16 PM     Points: 132    
I think a proper snake lure would have to be soft plastic. Snakes flex and glide with minimal disturbance. A jointed wood/hard plastic "snake" might still attract strikes, but probably not because the fish thinks it's a snake. I'm sure someone makes a soft plastic top water snake lure. Probably something in an "S" shape, that flexes and moves with minimal wake.
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/2/2012 2:57:55 PM     Points: 25    
nightangler, after a closer look, i agree. the hook and lip appear to be legs at first glance. after a closer look, yep, it's a snake for sure.
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/2/2012 2:59:12 PM     Points: 0    
619 - it is more of a generic snake pattern, rather than a species....I guess it looks like a king cobra kind of however I think it being dark will throw a nice sillohouette the trophy trout in the ark will find hard to resist(at least i hope)
I plan on slapping the banks and eddies with it prior to "walking the snake" to draw strikes.

I think salamanders have legs?
 Reply by: ZZZ      Posted: 8/2/2012 2:59:22 PM     Points: 1124    
You guys crack me up. Machetes and pepper spray for snakes??? Why not just walk away from them? It's not like they're going to chase you down and attack you. More often than not, if they see you or feel the vibration from your footsteps they will head in the opposite direction. Even a rattlesnake that is coiled up and rattling is in a defensive position and won't bite you unless you get too close or mess with them.

Tight Lines...zzz
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/2/2012 3:04:47 PM     Points: 25    
zzz, i've had snakes actually chase me before! scary stuff for sure, that is why i now carry pepper spray, it works wonders! I was chased by a rattler for at least 20 yards down on the river, scared the hell out of me. The sad thing, in my panic, I threw my tackle box and pole at it, and end up losing them. my ugly stick, my favorite rod.
 Reply by: Digcoal.com      Posted: 8/2/2012 3:11:02 PM     Points: 0    
Ranger619 I know what your saying I have even had large snakes follow me across rivers before better safe than sorry with that pepper spray.
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/2/2012 3:12:46 PM     Points: 0    
ZZZ

enough said....I'm takin my machete
 Reply by: Digcoal.com      Posted: 8/2/2012 3:19:09 PM     Points: 0    
Ranger620 if I meet up with you saturday, I will bring my friend who knows how to deal with snakes.
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/2/2012 3:20:40 PM     Points: 25    
dammmmmm, was that on the ark? I may have to get a machete in conjunction with my pepper spray!!!!!! that is crazy. If that is on the ark, i am going to quit fishing there!
 Reply by: FishSeal      Posted: 8/2/2012 3:20:49 PM     Points: 4437    
LOL! You guys crack me up. I would suggest a snake stick.

The reason why it was following you is because it was curious as to what you were. It happens to a few people every year out at the Pawnee National Grasslands (PNG). There are at least 3 known winter hibernacula of rattlesnakes at the PNG. Larimer county has lots of them and are even hunted for.

I just recently moved a rattlesnake at the Larimer County Administration office. It's not hard to do and I find that mutilation or decapitation a bit unnecessary and overkill. It's anything but a rattlesnake, then I suggest just leaving it alone. The only other snake that is aggressive is the water snake. They might chase you, but only have a wicked bite. However, as most snakes... will typically leave you alone. Just walk heavy so they know you're coming.

FS
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/2/2012 3:24:46 PM     Points: 25    
fishseal, hell with walking, i'm gonna run my arse off!!!! You actually relocated a rattler? piss on that, were you not scared? wth is a "snake stik" is that a long stick that you would beat it with?
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/2/2012 3:25:45 PM     Points: 0    
Fish seal -

Is the snake stick like a "bang stick" that they use for alligators and such. you know a stick with a loaded round that blasts the snake upon impact?

Who sells them around P-LO?
 Reply by: FishSeal      Posted: 8/2/2012 3:33:05 PM     Points: 4437    
I'll say this...
It is good to have a respectful fear. When you get cocky, is when accidents happen. But as scared of the snake, no. I used to have almost a phobia and would've rather killed them, but it was because I didn't know much about them, their habitat, their behavior, and their preferences (yes, snakes have preferences). We used to have a laboratory that was working on the rattlesnake population in the PNG and would take blood, scale clip and sex them. So, who better to learn from?
I was more scared of the 6' ranger with a shovel that was nervous than the snake.
It was just a small 3' rattler with 11 buttons. It's size and number of buttons indicated it was around 5 to 6 years of age.

Snakes are fascinating creatures. My largest bullsnake to date is 5', but I could've had the 5'6" had I grabbed the right tail. They were competing when I walked up on them.
I'd love to catch a full size Northern Water Snake, around 4-5', but I'll be content with my 10 to 12" baby.

FS
 Reply by: FishSeal      Posted: 8/2/2012 3:35:53 PM     Points: 4437    
No, a snake stick is the one with the hook on the end. They are typically used for lifting boards and exploring, but also handling the snake carefully and properly.

They are really easy to make. I just finished making 5 or 6 in a weekend.

FS
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/2/2012 3:36:45 PM     Points: 25    
fishseal

the only good snake is a dead snake!!!! I lost my ugly stick and tackle box as a result of a dam snake! fishseal, do you have a pic of a snake stick? as I am having a hard time picturing what they look like.
 Reply by: FishSeal      Posted: 8/2/2012 3:38:03 PM     Points: 4437    
If you want to legally hunt for them, which it is the season with a small game license, I would suggest snake shot for a .22lr revolver. They make snake shot for various calibers, but we don't have anything a .22lr snake shot can't solve.

FS
 Reply by: FishSeal      Posted: 8/2/2012 3:39:38 PM     Points: 4437    
Well, now you're better informed. I doubt you'd throw your gear at the snake again. I'm thinking that the county LEO should have the opportunity to take a small snake course.

FS
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/2/2012 3:40:08 PM     Points: 25    
do they make that for a .357 as that is all I have. will a .357 work effectively?
 Reply by: FishSeal      Posted: 8/2/2012 3:43:49 PM     Points: 4437    
I'm sure they have snake shot for that caliber.
I would highly suggest finding the snake shot for multiple reasons.
1) A slug of that magnitude has a very good of ricochet.
2) You're shooting a fairly small target at probably 10 to 15 feet.
3) You're going to be discharging a handgun probably while shaking. A slug will probably not meet it's mark, but a "shotgun spray" will.

Does that help?

FS
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/2/2012 3:45:04 PM     Points: 25    
yes, it helps a bunch!!! would you suggest I buy a shotgun? like a 10gauge ?
 Reply by: FishSeal      Posted: 8/2/2012 3:46:40 PM     Points: 4437    
If you truly are a ranger, what should you do?
You should use only the amount of force needed.
Just use the .357 with snake shot. Or, learn about them and preclude the snake issue altogether.

FS
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/2/2012 4:15:22 PM     Points: 0    
Nice advice FS

Drop a little Lake Skipper wisdom on him!
 Reply by: FishSeal      Posted: 8/2/2012 4:26:10 PM     Points: 4437    
Well, don't just think snake for bait. What are snakes usually after? Rodents.
You are more likely to find a mouse or rodent in the belly of a decent trout than you will a snake. A bass would hit a snake, but again, they'd rather take a frog.
My suggestion would be to fish frogs and mice in the area where there are snakes.

My best was a 16" brown trout, that upon cleaning, found it had eaten a mouse.

So, don't limit yourself to just snakes.

FS
 Reply by: JHoch00      Posted: 8/2/2012 5:01:23 PM     Points: 16    
Ranger 619 and 620
Are you the same person? Split Personality maybe? Or Twins?

Just Curious. :)
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/2/2012 5:54:58 PM     Points: 25    
JHoch00

I think ranger 620 is a copy cat with an ego, hence the name ranger 620. One of those guys that always has to one up ya.
 Reply by: bigmack      Posted: 8/2/2012 5:55:48 PM     Points: 48    
one time as a child I had a snake chase me in that very same stretch of the ark. very scary and disturbing. I did not know who to tell as I was a very small boy I for sure did not think to tell the DOW that was a good call. I am sure that they will actively investigate this incident search out the offending snake and relocate it. Once again good call and I will feel much safer next time I am on that stretch of the river knowing you called the DOW.
 Reply by: moosegoose      Posted: 8/2/2012 6:01:31 PM     Points: 1850    
I apologize. I should have been more specific. I could not snap a pic as he was too fast. I also could not find a native snake that looked similar. That is why I called DOW. I will get online and seeif I cannot find something similar.

I guess the point was to just be aware of it.

As for a condition report.. steelcity had it right on his update so I did not post one.
 Reply by: IceFishingFool      Posted: 8/2/2012 6:33:14 PM     Points: 4385    
With the suggestion on using an HD take your pick, get it in the water and work it. You wont be catching any fish if you dont get one in the water. That about the brown having a mouse for supper is no surprise, they go nuts when one is on the water. Maybe even more so than when a pike sees a mouse swim by.
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/2/2012 7:27:42 PM     Points: 0    
Ranger619 Im not a one up kinda guy, thought it wa Ironic too your screen name was similar to mine...Maybe you will be just like me now that i hav you convinced to take your machete with you to the ark given the snake infestation that is being brought to light in this thread.

I think I have decided to fork up the $ to hire steelcity guide for a day, does anyone know if he will let me bring my hard ware set up so I can try my snake lure throughout the trip? I have a baitcast that should sling that snake pretty good

any info would be much appreciated
 Reply by: bigmack      Posted: 8/2/2012 7:50:29 PM     Points: 48    
620 I would be cautious if I were you first the mention of "crawlers" and now a bait casting rig on such a pristine area is just looking for a scuffel this section of the river is pretty much restricted to elitist anymore.
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/2/2012 7:58:51 PM     Points: 0    
Big mack. I fish whatever fish may eat. I love to fly fish when the hatch is on. But i equally enjoy draggina crawler if that is the soup djour and i am not above throwing my 22" snake imitation if thats what the trophys want. I have landed many trophy fish because i am not sfraid to throw what they might eat.
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/2/2012 8:01:36 PM     Points: 0    
Eorf

Tellmme more abouth the red racer. Could u post a pic. I may airbrush my snake imitation to match the hatch if that is the snake you think is prevalent down there. Many thanks and tight lines
 Reply by: bigmack      Posted: 8/2/2012 8:13:38 PM     Points: 48    
620 I agree, hell son I would even use dog poop if that is what the fish would eat then my hands would smell like two things not just fish. I am saying be cautious as not everyone who frequents this stretch of river has the same theology.
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/2/2012 8:24:18 PM     Points: 25    
bigmack

using dog poo, you, my friend, are one sick puppy. no pun intended. ranger 620 i feel your'e onto something with painting that bait. you, my friend, could be onto something as big as the umbrella rig. good on ya man.
eorf, i'm not familiar with a red racer, as i have not seen on in the wild, only on t.v. and the internet. could you please post a pic?
tight lines
 Reply by: Luke the Dog      Posted: 8/2/2012 9:19:31 PM     Points: 13    
This thread is hilarious...There absolutely no snakes around here that will "chase" you. If it happened to crawl your direction it was probably confused about which way it had to go to escape...

At the size you describe, if it was tan/brown it was a probably a bull snake, if it was light red/pink it was probably a coachwhip snake.
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/2/2012 10:31:47 PM     Points: 0    
Luke

Do you think i should paint my snake lure to imitate a coachwhip? Oh and i have seen snakes "chase" people very aggresively in the wild
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/3/2012 7:48:32 AM     Points: 25    
LUKE THE DOG

As i mentioned in my earlier post, I had a dam rattler chase me for at least 20 yards!! they will chase you! that was the one I lost my tackle box and ugly stick on. No laughing matter. dam snakes.

ranger 620

I would recommend several snake species lures.
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/3/2012 8:21:56 AM     Points: 0    
With the potential for several anglers carrying machetes with them now to the ark it got me thinking some more on lure selection. I have acquired a new topwater snake head lure, that I think will be a good imitation of what may become a sleeper food source for the trophy browns. if a lot of snakes end up getting macheted and thrown in the river the trout may get used to eating snake heads? Was very excited to find this lure and can't wait to try. I will be hitting it up tomorrow if anyone wants to meet up. Here is a pic of the lure
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/3/2012 10:00:42 AM     Points: 0    
Great press release out on snake safety on DOW website

[log in for link]

stay safe on the ark everyone
 Reply by: slicedog      Posted: 8/3/2012 10:50:28 AM     Points: 21    
As a breeder and keeper of snakes, and I also work at a facilty with snakes, I can asure you they are not chasing you. Rattle snakes chasing you down river the river? Most likely misidentification, I am guessing bull snake, as i have seen them plenty of times crossing the river, and are often misidentified as rattlesnakes. Snakes on the water and land are usually just trying to get from point a to point b, if you are in the way, they go through you, over you, around you, etc, which can be misconstrued as "chasing". People claim to get chased by cottonmouths all the time, yet they don't realize they are standing between the snake and water and the snake is just trying to get to safety. Now I can say that coachwhips will stand their ground when needed, they have even come after me in photo ops. I had one go through my legs and into the underside of the truck I was driving when i stopped to get a pic. It didn't bite me on the way by or attack me, it was just trying to get to cover, which in this case is the truck. If you leave them alone, they will leave you alone. Btting is the last defense, and they only do that when threatened.
 Reply by: pbs      Posted: 8/3/2012 11:55:44 AM     Points: 3334    
Hmm....Ranger, you (guys) got me chuckling.---for a troll, or trolls..lmao!

Either way...Fish Seal knows what he's talking about.....if you(or you guys)
Thing 1, and Thing 2....possibly bff's?

one other thing......I will admit not knowing about .357 cartridges being
available in "snake rounds", seems a bit of overkill, but, nonetheless.....
CCI does make a 38 cal. in a snake round which fires just fine through
a .357 revolver...even a Magnum which I have fired some through for
fun. I'm sure other manufacturers produce their own line of "snake rounds"
also.

Although.....if you're more comfortable carrying a 10 ga for them snakes....
then that should work good too, oh, and....might as well go with an open
choke too..haha!

Have fun guys!
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/3/2012 12:07:26 PM     Points: 25    
pbs

I dont understand the "troll" thing? I will look into a .38 special snake round. .357 is much easier to lug around vs a 10 gauge.
I must have been right in the snakes desired path of travel, because it seemed to be after me for at least 20 yds. maybe I was just in a panic. terrible fear of snakes.
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/3/2012 12:09:31 PM     Points: 0    
Pbs. I def am not a troll just fairly new to site. I am dead serious about fishin the ark w snake patterns but admit im alittle apprehensive about the apparent snake infestation there. Oh and i admit i get conused reading this which ranger is which lol. Wish the others screen name wasnt so similar. Thanks for the input and tight lines. I will post pics from my trip tomorrow. Hopin for a lunker
 Reply by: FishSeal      Posted: 8/3/2012 12:17:01 PM     Points: 4437    
PBS is correct, that is the round I'm referring to.

You guys have a great time and be safe.

FS
 Reply by: pbs      Posted: 8/3/2012 12:48:02 PM     Points: 3334    
Ranger dudes....I hope I didn't offend you too much...I apologize if I did.
If you've ever read any of my past posts/replies...then you would know
that I am one who has the guts to publically apologize and take the
criticism and humiliation that goes with it.

That being said, well....you have to admit that two members' with handles
that are nearly the same, and also with a low number of points each, and
fueling the same thread at the same time.........well....just saying.

A troll, or "trolling" is generally a low-point, or no-point member that starts
a post or thread with the attempt at causing an argument, or getting other
members involved in a heated debate over a particular subject.

Most regular forum members are well aware as to what to look for when
a troll appears. These "trolls" are non-productive to the thread, or the forum site. Many of these trolls are "outed" early on and their replies
are usually deleted before they can ruffle too many feathers.

If one, or both of you guys are not trolling.....then I humbly apologize.
If one or both of you guys are trolling....well, then, none of this really matters now...does it?
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/3/2012 12:56:12 PM     Points: 25    
pbs, i am somewhat offended. based on your definition of a troll, I clearly do not fall into. low/no points , how does one get "points", i'm confused. I do not post a lot however, as a regular fisherman on the ark, i'm concerned. this just really hit home, as I fish this trophy stretch as much as I can, sometimes with my dog and children. just want to avoid disaster.

tight lines
 Reply by: pbs      Posted: 8/3/2012 1:26:16 PM     Points: 3334    
Ranger619...I apologize to you. Now I realize that you are not trolling this forum.

For a long time....a member/person that had low/no points....was not very
"trustworthy" as far as accurate info was concerned. Sometimes these people were considered "trolls", and many members could not trust the
info that these trolls were giving. Some of these trolls were purposely
giving out info that was totally false....and many times these trolls were
coming on to the forum to purposely cause chaos and disruption just for fun.

Nowadays...it takes a lot of positive posts, and lake updates to get any points at all. Lake updates are the best way to get points with the forum.
It gives the other forum members accurate, up-to-date info on the ever
changing conditions of their favorite lake/reservoir.

In regards to "points"....for quite a while, points were given each time a post or reply was made....for everyone. If a member submitted a "lake
report", or "conditions report"....more points were awarded to that member.
These points are accumalative and go towards purchases like at the forum store for merchandise. Also, these points go towards a yearly
drawing for products, merchandise, and guided trips with local pros.
You can even use some of your points towards the purchase of a FxR +
subscription.

Now....points are not given to everyone that merely posts or replies to a
topic. This is the case in many situations now. To "get" points now.....one
needs to submit a conditions report, or....have enough "fins up" from
fellow members regarding positive info or feedback to a thread.

For more information about the points system....you can E-mail Dave
Coulson.

Hope this helps somewhat.
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/3/2012 1:32:21 PM     Points: 25    
pbs

thanks for the info, that is awesome!
 Reply by: pbs      Posted: 8/3/2012 1:50:29 PM     Points: 3334    
My pleasure Sir...welcome to the forum!

ps.....stick around and I guarantee you will meet up with some of the best
and friendliest fishing guys in the state from this forum!


I know I did!!
 Reply by: bigmack      Posted: 8/3/2012 3:48:55 PM     Points: 48    
620 that is a dam fine snake imitation where did you find it??
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/3/2012 5:49:13 PM     Points: 0    
Bigmac i found it online. Should be epic tomorrow

Pbs. Thanks for making a guyfeel welcome. Excited to report how the snake imitations work tomorrow. Was unable to get steel city guide dialed in so will be on my own. Wish me safety with the snakes
 Reply by: bigmack      Posted: 8/3/2012 7:12:27 PM     Points: 48    
pbs you think the number of points is what makes a comment valid on this web site?? How about just a little common sense. Hell there was one guy on here who wanted to play with a snake a potentially lethal snake with a stick and you are going to give that guy credence over a person who wants to take no chances in securing their own safety by giving it the business end of a 357 common man points.
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/3/2012 7:37:16 PM     Points: 0    
Bigmack

I think it is a little wrong to attack pbs on this. While i agree points may not equal knowledge i must admit i really wish i had more points than zero. As for the snake stick now that i know what it is ( thanks fish seal!) i picked one up at murdochs for my trip tomorrow. Hopefully the machete and 620s 357 stay in their sheaths. Tight lines
 Reply by: bigmack      Posted: 8/3/2012 8:03:45 PM     Points: 48    
620 thanks for putting me in my place. Sorry pbs that was probably a little short as you can tell by my points I am a relative new comer here as well. 620 i would be very cautious using the snake stick not having the extensive experience and training as fish seal this could lead to disaster. Be safe out there!!
and good fishing!
 Reply by: FishSeal      Posted: 8/3/2012 8:13:22 PM     Points: 4437    
FYI,
Here's something for you to consider.
Rattlesnakes can only strike 1/3 to 1/2 of their body length. So, with that in mind, a 6' rattler can only strike 2 to 3' of it's length. However, these are legend snakes and most venomous snakes will only be 3 to 4 feet in length.
Usually, it is wise to overestimate it's length.
My suggestion would be to use the snakestick to gauge your distance... so, stay about an extra stick's length away (most good sticks are 36 to 40"). Only move the snake if absolutely neccessary... like if you find one in the brown house, can, latrine. They can also be used to keep a curious snake at bay.
A rattlesnake can only strike if coiled and poised. If it is travelling, slithering, it cannot strike. These would be best to leave alone and either let them pass, or find an alternative route behind the snake.

Again, to help disperse the snakes before you even get there... walk hard on your feet. Don't be afraid to make noise.

FS
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/3/2012 9:02:24 PM     Points: 0    
Thanks again seal! I will use utmost caution and deadly force only if absolutely necessary. More importantly i hope to land a trophy trout or two! Time to get some sleep. Want to hit the river early beofre the snakes get too active. Tight lines to all and thanks again fs for the expert advice. Much appreciated and respected.
 Reply by: pbs      Posted: 8/4/2012 4:06:02 AM     Points: 3334    





Bigmack.......no need to apologize, my mistake on that one. I didn't word
my thoughts very well. I meant to say that a member with little, or no
points at all does not mean that what they have to say, or info to give
is invalid or worthless......far from that. In other words....there are many
members with little or no points that offer a good amount of info and knowledge to the forum. Also, it's just that it takes many "fins up" from
other anglers to get a few points. However....a "conditions report" will
get you more points at one time, and those reports are more favored and usefull to the members.

Sorry I wasn't that clear to begin with....I meant nothing personal towards
any member that has little or no points.....in fact, those members' info
and tips are very valuable to me and others.

619 and 620....good luck with the catching, and be safe out there!


Thnx for keeping me in check guys....."fins up" to you all!
 Reply by: gfunk311      Posted: 8/4/2012 6:01:01 PM     Points: 175    
Wondering how the snake lure worked? I saw a pic in cmarbles skipper profile of a largie with a giant snake swimbait hanging out of its mouth. He uses rediculous size swim baits but it is definately a snake lure.
 Reply by: Browns Hunter      Posted: 8/4/2012 6:20:11 PM     Points: 3070    
This is a great thread. I'd sure like to know what kind of a snake grows to 7 or 8' here in Colorado. I think its stretching it to talk about 6'. So, I'd like to hear more about this monster snake.

Meanwhile, for you guys who talk about making a snake lure or such, I have just the article for you. Believe me, you'd never catch me doing what this guy did, but he did catch a nice fish!
[log in for link]
 Reply by: Mr.Pink      Posted: 8/4/2012 6:45:06 PM     Points: 132    
Bull snakes can top 8', though it's not that common. The only other snakes that can come close to that length in Colorado are coachwhips, which aren't encountered that frequently...they're extremely fast and tend to do a good job of staying away from people. Bull snakes are always mottled in color, whereas coachwhips are always uniform in color, though the color can vary from green to red. Also, coachwhips are quite thin, whereas an 8' bull snake would have considerable girth. Hopefully this helps the OP to determine which species it was.

For those interested in reptiles in Colorado, refer to Hammerson (Amphipians and Reptiles in Colorado).
 Reply by: spicyhombre      Posted: 8/4/2012 7:14:57 PM     Points: 194    
I would love to try this Snake lure but don't want to pay $40 to check it out. The movement looks awesome.

[log in for link]


On a separate note, I don't think a weapon is needed to deal with snakes. their strike distance is easy to get away from and they don't chase down people. Some times they will come towards you out of interest not out of malice. Sometimes they will come towards you if they feel it is the safest route to get away (danger you don't know of the other way or their den your direction). If you observe snakes, the only time they move fast is when escaping danger. They hunt slowly and travel slowly. If you are walking through deep grass, make noise and vibration while walking and carry a stick to gently push them away if you happen to get too close accidentally and need to create some distance to allow for you to retreat safely (instead of running through branches, etc.)
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/5/2012 10:51:46 AM     Points: 0    
I made it up yesterday as planned. Survived a couple snake sitings including one that did look to be 6 plus ft long!! More importantly i was able to confirm a trophy trout was looking for my snake lure! Pics to come once i can clear my digi camera -
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/5/2012 8:34:11 PM     Points: 0    
so as promised here is the pic of the big girl that fell for my 18" snake pattern. I was walkin the snake between the bank and an undercut rock and wham! this big girl engulfed it! 27 34" rainbow or cutthroat no sure? maybe you guys familiar with the lower ark can help on this? either way just shows the risk was worth the reward! don't let the snake worries keep you from trophies, in fact think of them as a potential food source for these huge trout! tight lines to all
 Reply by: bigmack      Posted: 8/6/2012 7:13:28 AM     Points: 48    
Hot dam son you must be on to something!! That is a great looking fish was that the only one that fell or was that the biggest one? either way the snake is making its way to me arsenal!
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/6/2012 12:02:38 PM     Points: 0    
Many thanks Big Mac. It was an awesome day for sure. Only fish on the snake but a good one. Can you tell me if it is a Cutthroat or maybe a rainbow?

Thanks and tight lines
 Reply by: skiman      Posted: 8/6/2012 12:32:00 PM     Points: 512    
Ranger620...
Awesome fish!
I'd say a Cutbow.Good Fishing!
Ski
 Reply by: nightangler      Posted: 8/6/2012 12:33:52 PM     Points: 1278    
That is bad ass dude!!!! I would say its a cutbow just by looking at it. Did you use that jointed snake lure pictured above or was it a different one?
 Reply by: LarsCS      Posted: 8/6/2012 12:35:25 PM     Points: 3    
Looks like a Cutbow (Cutthroat/Rainbow Hybrid)
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/6/2012 12:52:55 PM     Points: 25    
good on ya ranger620, that is awesome!! I was unable to get out this weekend. that kinda looks like a brown to me, but I'm not sure. good work on the snake lure.

tight lines
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/6/2012 1:41:42 PM     Points: 0    
Thanks guys! It was actually on the jointed pattern - it swam really nice even though I was surprised it only got that one hit. It does make a lot of splash when it hits the water, some of the fly guys didn't seem too impressed with me chucking it around down there (probably for that reason). The walk the snake technique did make a nice action. I will continue to try it even though I only caught the 1 fish.

Ranger619 - I'm pretty sure it's not a brown trout. I would guess cutbow -
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/7/2012 7:38:26 AM     Points: 0    
Brookie -

Thanks man but I don't consider myself highly skilled , just willing to try new lures/techniques and sometimes they have surprising results. I was more casting and retrieving rather than trolling, but I imagine on the rez you could troll such a snake pattern a long distance from the boat and maybe get good results?

tightlines and thanks!
 Reply by: IceFishingFool      Posted: 8/7/2012 8:08:26 AM     Points: 4385    
Ok you 2, If you want to know whats what meet up with the likes of me and I can set you straight LOL. I will even stick my toungue out so you can see its not forked.
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/7/2012 8:14:16 AM     Points: 0    
IFF - Are you near P-lo? If you want I may head out again this weekend would love to meet up and hit the river together if you want. You must really love the snakes if your tongue is forked lol! Let me know if you want to throw some snake lures sometime. Tight lines
 Reply by: pbs      Posted: 8/7/2012 8:26:42 AM     Points: 3334    
619 and 620.....you can trust IFF, I consider him a good friend and trustworthy. He's the man.......he knows!
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/7/2012 8:47:12 AM     Points: 0    
Thanks PBS - good to know!
 Reply by: ranger619      Posted: 8/7/2012 8:53:23 AM     Points: 25    
thanks pbs.

It is just a shame when someone does not have thousands of points, you are pegged as a troll. That is weak. Evidently i am spending more time fishing and less time blogging. but I don't need the blog forums to stroke me and give me an attaboy..

tightlines
 Reply by: pbs      Posted: 8/7/2012 9:28:17 AM     Points: 3334    
Ranger619....I feel ya. naw, you don't need the points....believe me.
I have met and fished with several forum members who either have the points, or don't have the points. Doesn't matter....the anglers that i have fished with.....don't concern themselves with the points....they're just great
anglers and love fishing. I could drop several names in regards to great
local anglers but, they might not like the notoriety...haha!

Bottom line......don't concern yourself with anglers like me.....I'm just a guy
who likes to fish. I think you're the same as me. Just get out and fish!

Oh yeah....if you happen to fish one of the local lakes/reservoirs, maybe consider submitting a lake conditions/report for that day? It helps other
anglers in regards to changing conditions, water temps, water clarity, and
patterns used that day. (plus..you get more points!)
 Reply by: rebelsportsmanl      Posted: 8/7/2012 10:00:20 AM     Points: 510    
it is real easy to distinguish the city slickers from the country boys here on the snake issue. you city guys need to get out and learn about the snakes. for the guy who had a snake chase him, in texas we have a snake called a coach whip that is known for chasing. if you just stay calm around snakes they usually will crawl away. now if you step on them or harrass them they will definately bite. i have talked to 2 guys that fish the arkansas below salida and they have seen rattlesnakes along the river this year. just be carefull and don't act a fool and you will be ok.
 Reply by: IceFishingFool      Posted: 8/7/2012 10:33:18 AM     Points: 4385    
620....(You must really love the snakes if your tongue is forked lol!) ??...Did you miss the (so you can see its NOT forked) ?? *-)....Ive yet to get down to Pueblo this year, Im on the South End of Denver. ie I-25 & Arapahoe Rd. Trout fishing runs in the family. Uncle Jess Brown with his Colorado State Record German Brown (1961)
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/7/2012 10:44:50 AM     Points: 0    
IFF - sorry misread your last post.

That is an epic brown trout - where was it landed?

Thanks for sharing
 Reply by: IceFishingFool      Posted: 8/7/2012 10:47:01 AM     Points: 4385    
Animus River...Durango...Oct 17th 1961 36 inches, 23# Colordo record for River or Streams.
 Reply by: Ranger620      Posted: 8/7/2012 10:49:18 AM     Points: 0    
I'm sure it wasn't caught on a snake lure, nut I bet a brown like that would make short work of a snake imitation! Great photo
 Reply by: nightangler      Posted: 8/7/2012 11:29:13 AM     Points: 1278    
And IFF - That is a monster of a brown your uncle caught!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
 Reply by: KingFisher13      Posted: 8/7/2012 10:42:58 PM     Points: 92    
 Reply by: nightangler      Posted: 8/8/2012 6:26:18 AM     Points: 1278    
Is that Cmarbles!?!?!?! :-P
 Reply by: basspirate      Posted: 8/8/2012 7:14:28 AM     Points: 284    
this is great!!
i love the 'anaconda' and 'snakes on a plane' reference..haha
here is one i saw on two different occasions in the exact same place...swimming!
 Reply by: Farmer Brown      Posted: 9/15/2012 8:30:28 PM     Points: 160    
I was surprised nobody commented on the awesome Samuel L. Jackson reference
 Reply by: gfunk311      Posted: 9/15/2012 9:04:37 PM     Points: 175    
I am sick and tired of the same mother f'in snake lures on this mother f'in site!!!!!!!

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