Lake Moraine near Manitou Springs: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  El Paso County, Colorado, is where Lake Moraine sits. The surroundings are rolling bush. Roughly 67 acres: a morning covers one end, an afternoon the other. Size puts it in the front rank of our El Paso County list. For supplies, Manitou Springs is 5.3 miles out. Cascade-Chipita Park lies 9.1 miles off, Colorado Springs another 9.5 miles. A border sits close enough to be relevant to the paperwork.

• Where to Fish on Lake Moraine

  There is no published depth for this one, so start shallow and work out. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Rip-rap along the wall holds fish that the open bank never does. Species logged across El Paso County include rainbow trout, common carp and brook trout. Records at this level tell you what is in the area. Lake Moraine repays a walk before the first cast.

• Seasonal Patterns

  In an average year July sits at 54°F and January at 20°F. A hard winter is normal, and the thaw brings a strong few weeks. Count the season from break-up, usually mid May. From about mid May to around mid November, expect open water on the long-run figures. Fish feed hardest at the start and the close of the open season. It holds true on Lake Moraine more years than not.

• Tackle & Baits

  Ownership and access are not documented in what we hold. Nothing is mapped in the way of a ramp or car park within a short radius. Trout here take small spinners, spoons and, where fly water allows, a nymph or dry. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. Dead Lake sits 1.7 miles off and takes the overflow. What applies at Lake Moraine may have changed since it was mapped.