Where to Go North Delaney Butte

North Delaney Butte Lake, located in North Park near Walden, Colorado, is a renowned destination for fly fishers seeking trophy trout. Designated as a Gold Medal Water by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, this high-altitude lake (8,000+ feet) is famous for its large brown trout, which are carefully managed to ensure quality fishing. The lake offers a range of opportunities for anglers, whether fishing from the shore, wading, or using a float tube. Popular fly patterns here include midges, scuds, leeches, and woolly buggers, with success often depending on paying close attention to the lake's hatches and seasonal activity. During summer, casting chironomids or callibaetis nymphs can be particularly effective, while fall brings the exciting chance to target spawning browns along the shoreline.

The lake’s surroundings are equally captivating, offering scenic views of the Butte and the expansive North Park Valley. For fly fishers, early mornings and evenings are prime times to fish, as trout tend to rise closer to the surface during these cooler parts of the day. The lake can be challenging due to its clarity and the wariness of its trout, so precise casting and subtle presentations are crucial. Access is straightforward via County Road 5, with camping available nearby for those looking to extend their adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a newcomer to stillwater fly fishing, North Delaney Butte Lake provides a rewarding experience in the heart of Colorado’s wilderness.

The best seasons to fish North Delaney Butte Lake are spring through fall, with each offering unique opportunities for fly anglers. In spring, as the ice thaws, trout become active, feeding voraciously on midges and other early-season insects, making it an excellent time for fishing near the surface. Summer brings prolific hatches of callibaetis, damsels, and chironomids, which draw trout to the shallows and provide thrilling dry fly action during calm mornings and evenings. As fall approaches, brown trout begin their spawning season, congregating near the inlets and along the rocky shores. This period is especially rewarding for targeting large, aggressive fish using streamers or egg patterns. Winter can also be productive for hardy anglers, as ice fishing is permitted, but it requires different tactics and gear. Regardless of the season, adapting your approach to match the trout's activity and the lake's conditions is key to success.