Colorado - Stagecoach Reservoir
One of America's most prolific northern pike reservoirs, Stagecoach near Steamboat Springs routinely serves up 40-plus-inch fish on jigs, swimming lures, and even flies (try a purple Pike Bunny). The bays and shallows along the southern and western shorelines are definitely worth hitting this month. You can also flyfish for trout in the relatively runoff-immune section of the Yampa River, just below the dam at its eastern edge. Staple patterns such as Copper Johns and Parachute Adams usually work. Steamboat Fly Fisher, 970-879-6552; www.steamboatflyfisher.com

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Guide's Tips
Species: Northern Pike
Guide: Keith Hale; Steamboat Fly Fisher; steamboatflyfisher.com; 970-879-6552
Rig Specifics: Winston 7- or 8-weight fly rod, Lamson fly reel, floating line, Barry Reynolds big bunny fur streamer (black color).
Quick Tip: Probably the most important thing is varying your retrieves. Sometimes pike like a fast strip and sometimes they like a slow one.
Where to Fish: Two big nameless bays on the southeast side of the lake, toward the boat ramp.

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Photos From Stagecoach Reservoir