UL Spinning tackle for Colorado trout fishing

David, While the setup you linked to is nice and compact, I think you’ll be more satisfied with a bit nicer reel (8 ball bearing rather than 4, etc) and longer rod (better line guides, etc.). For about $15 more you can purchase a setup from Bass Pro that doesn’t weigh much more (for the rod and reel). You’ll also need to consider the weight of a rod carrying tube and your tackle. My non-fly fishing companions frequently borrow the following from me when we are fishing (they and I really like it):

Bass Pro Micro Lite IM-6 5’6″ 3 pc PACK ROD (MLT56LS-3)
3.55 oz, $39.99

Bass Pro Micro Lite CARRY CASE
4.40 oz, $0.00

Microfiber Hand Towel – Green (keeps the rod from rattling and provides you a towel to wipe your hands after washing them in the water)
1.40 oz, $1.62

Plano 3×5 tackle box with lures (spoons, mepps spinners, jigs)
5.40 oz, $2.59

Pflueger President (6720) Spinning REEL
6.40 oz, $50.00

Total
21.15 oz, $94.20

Wow! I pretty much have the same setup as Brian (I just ordered the Pflueger President reel today). I carry the same rod (minus the carrying case), and a pair of small hemastats. I have really enjoyed using the rod and hopefully I will enjoy using the reel as well. I am going to try a new rod on a trip I am taking next week, it is a Pucci telescopic rod (recommended by people on these forums).

In Colorado, I seem to have more luck with Panther Martin lures, but I have also had success with Mepps and Kastmasters.

To cook fish, I usually just take some pieces of aluminum foil, a small dropper bottle of olive oil, and some small salt a pepper packets. I clean the fish, put a little olive oil, salt, and pepper on the meat, wrap it in the foil, and hold it above the fire for a little while. You may have to try it a couple of times to get a feel for the timing, but it has worked well for me.

As far as the smell goes, I usually try to cook and clean my fish far away from my campsite. I also try to avoid (and I think Brian mentioned using a microfiber towel for this) wiping my hands on my clothes after touching fish.

Happy fishing! :-)