Bighorn Canyon Chapter
Conservation and education through outreach and restoration
The Bighorn Sheep Canyon Chapter of Colorado Trout Unlimited is dedicated to conserving, protecting, and restoring the exceptional fisheries of the Arkansas River through Bighorn Sheep Canyon and its key tributaries, including Grape Creek and Badger Creek.
Our conservation efforts safeguard the river’s renowned wild brown and rainbow trout populations in this Gold Medal stretch. We advocate for sustainable water management, protect riparian corridors, monitor water quality, and address threats like sedimentation, invasive species, and recreational impacts—extending our work to vital tributaries to enhance watershed connectivity. We partner with landowners, agencies, and stakeholders to promote responsible angling and river stewardship.
Through hands-on restoration projects on the Arkansas River and its tributaries, we stabilize banks, enhance instream habitat, plant native vegetation, and restore natural flows. These efforts improve spawning and rearing areas, boost fish populations, and build watershed resilience.
Education and outreach are core to our mission. We offer a youth fishing tournament, fly-tying workshops, and community events to inspire conservation-minded anglers and share knowledge of aquatic ecology, science, and ethical practices.
Join us—experienced angler or newcomer—in protecting the wild trout waters of Bighorn Sheep Canyon and its tributaries for current and future generations. Together, we’ll keep this iconic river system healthy, productive, and accessible.
Our Organization
We are in the process of establishing the Bighorn Sheep Canyon Chapter as a new local chapter of Colorado Trout Unlimited, serving the Fremont County area. Working closely with existing chapters and state and national Trout Unlimited leadership, we are building a collaborative group that will partner with surrounding chapters to protect and restore the world-class wild trout fisheries of the Arkansas River through Bighorn Sheep Canyon and its vital tributaries, including Grape Creek and Badger Creek.
Our board and membership bring together a diverse group united by a shared passion for coldwater conservation: professional guides and fishing experts, dedicated conservationists, amateur anglers—both seasoned veterans and enthusiastic newcomers—and anyone who cares deeply about preserving the natural beauty, ecological health, and recreational opportunities of Bighorn Sheep Canyon and the surrounding Arkansas River watershed.
Whether you’re an experienced fly fisher, a weekend angler, a conservation advocate, or simply someone who loves the stunning scenery and wild places of this iconic Colorado canyon, we welcome you to join us.
Interested in Joining?
Interested in joining our chapter? Click the button below. You’re also welcome to join the next meeting, which will be on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 518 Main Street, Canon City.
