Virginia Lakes.
The fishing here can be worth it though. Morning and dusk are usually the most productive times. As the sun goes over the ridge, with the sky still light, has been the best time for myself here. When the weather is bad the fishing seems to pick up. My most productive days have been in cold conditions. The day these photos were taken we caught and released at least 15 fish each in about two hours. Five inches of snow fell in that time, but who noticed?
If you hike up the far side just past those trees in the middle of this photo you will find Red Lake.
Always over-pack for this place.
Bring lots of warm clothes, food, water, and be prepared to leave quickly. Watch the sky and pay attention to changes in wind direction. Experienced outdoorsmen know to watch the animals as well. If they suddenly disappear you might want to also. No fishing experience is worth risking your well being.
Use light tackle.
Because of the clear water I use 4-6 lb. test.
Also down size your bait presentation by using smaller hooks, and lures.Size 10 and 12 bait hooks work well for salmon eggs and worms.14 size trebble hooks for cheese baits works for me. Spinning lures should be around 1/8 or smaller.
Keep your line tight and pole high.
These cold water fish like to nibble before eating the bait. When they start to nibble lower the pole tip to give them some line, slowly bring it back up to tighten the line again. If they are still there set the hook. If they are not there give it a minute to see if they might come back. If you are using eggs or worms you probably got robbed. time to re-bait.
Try the fly and bubble rig.
When the weather is good here this technique does work. Tie on a fly with a plastic bubble that is 3/4 filled with water. Use a BB split shot to set the lead at 3-4'. Cast the line carefully and let it sit until the splash ripples settle. Slowly bring some line in and let it sit. Repeat this untill you are out of the strike zone and start over.
"Can we go now?"
You are at 9,500' altitude.
The air is thin, and the weather is volatil.
The locals will laugh at you if you ask for a weather report. They aren't being rude, they just know that whatever the prediction is it can change in minutes.
I have seen it go from sunny and 60 to snow in 30 minutes and that was at 6,500'. Be aware of your environment at all times.
Right Billy G.
"get that heater going would ya!"