Weir and Johnson Reservoir in Delta County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  Weir and Johnson Reservoir lies within the bounds of Delta County, Colorado. The water sits 10,499 feet up. Around 31 acres of surface means several distinct areas to work. The bank runs about 1.1 miles all the way round, so one visit can cover most of it. Few waters listed in Delta County are bigger. 13 miles away sits Cedaredge, the nearest town. Orchard City follows at 18 miles, then Paonia at 19 miles. The county line is nowhere near, so one local authority covers the water.

• Where to Fish on Weir and Johnson Reservoir

  We hold no survey for this water; read the slope of the shoreline instead. Points where the flooded channel swings in are the reliable ones. Rip-rap along the wall holds fish that the open bank never does. Species logged across Delta County include rainbow trout, white sucker, flannelmouth sucker and bluehead sucker. Records at this level tell you what is in the area. Read Weir and Johnson Reservoir for ten minutes before the first cast goes out.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Averages here run 55°F at the top of summer and 16°F at the bottom of winter. A hard winter is normal, and the thaw brings a strong few weeks. Winter fishing happens on the ice here, with open water back around mid May. On the long-run averages the water opens up around mid May and starts locking again about mid November. Early summer and early autumn carry the open-water season. On Weir and Johnson Reservoir the same rules apply, with local timing.

• Tackle & Baits

  Whether you may fish here is not something records settle. A campsite is mapped about half a mile away, which makes an early start easier. Trout here take small spinners, spoons and, where fly water allows, a nymph or dry. Some banks are open only from a marked point. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. Sackett Reservoir sits 0.4 miles off and takes the overflow. Confirm before you fish Weir and Johnson Reservoir.