Do some homework about access to lakes in the surrounding area. Some places are blocked off because of the fires that went through. Please let us know where you end up and how you did.
You have FXR+, so you have access to a ton of data right here. Fishing maps can be the best for searching around an area. Click on the lake goes, you’ll see species, reports, and regs such as no ice fishing on Estes.
Frankly it’s not my favorite area for ice.. the lakes in the National park have a long list of rules, and really aren’t that great. 98% of Sprague is a mud hole and 2’ deep at best.
Plus, if you don’t have an annual pass, that’s a lot of $$ to get in and fish.
I’d hit Rambos for some booze, smokin Dave’s for some bbq and drink while telling fish stories. Haha
Reply by: team FMFO Posted: 12/7/2020 8:26:22 PM Points: 3446
^^^ He is spot on EVERYTHING !!! I live in Estes and just went to Rambos liquor store and talked to Matt & Christy who own it . I live 3/4 of a mile from the store and they are good people !!! been going there for 25 years now. :)
^^ they used to by my neighbors here in Johnstown till Matt bought the store from his mom and they moved up the canyon. Awesome people, and a selection like you don’t see. Especially if you have good taste.
But the ice fishing stinks!! Haha
You’d be better off bringing gear to fish the open parts of the Big T.
Normally I do not believe a word FMFO and especially AJAX says... but now I'm gonna have to wash my mouth out with soap.. cuz I pretty much agree with them,. Its' my limited experience with Lake Estes but it rarely even freezes completely, much less to be able to ice it (not legal) but with a little practice you can learn to catch lots of bows and browns from there. Nothing big, but enough to keep the trip entertaining.
