Not a guide trip this time—just a perfect day on the water with wonderful company. My wife, our child, the family, and our four-legged kiddo, Maggie, made the trip up to East Brush Creek near Yeoman Park on the south end of Eagle. Quick tip: if you find yourself at Sylvan Lake State Park, you’ve gone a bit too far. The weather lined up beautifully, the water looked great, and the brook trout were more than willing to play.
Fishing in tiny water like this with a 3-weight rod is about as fun as it gets. The brook trout were eager and opportunistic, rising to Callibaetis and hopper patterns with little hesitation. It was one of those days where nearly every decent presentation had a shot, and even the smallest pockets held fish ready to eat. The setting only made it better—lush greenery, wildflowers, and that quiet backcountry feel that makes you slow down and enjoy every cast.
It turned into more than just a fishing trip. While one of us had the rod, the other was busy with our 14-month-old daughter, who was fully committed to her own river adventures—working on her balance in the shallows and perfecting her rock-throwing technique. Rock eating was strongly discouraged, though she may have tested the theory once or twice. Maggie, who turns six tomorrow, was in her element. She’s no stranger to these kinds of outings and spent the day chasing minnows, splashing through the creek, and exploring every corner of the meadow. The beaver dam zones offered plenty of prime sticks to chew on, which she thoroughly approved of.
The fishing itself was steady and simple in the best way. Light gear, small water, and fish that weren’t overly selective made for a relaxing pace. It was the kind of day where you don’t worry about numbers or size—you just enjoy the rhythm of casting, watching fish rise, and sharing the experience with family. All that was missing was a picnic basket.
All in all, it was one of those outings that remind you why you fish in the first place. If you’re looking to explore some smaller, more technical water with eager trout, East Brush Creek is absolutely worth the trip. Just don’t overthink the fly selection—most attractors and small dries will get the job done. The real recommendation? Bring bug spray. The mosquitoes and biting flies were no joke, likely thanks to the higher water this year. Small price to pay for a day like that.
