FLY FISHING COLORADO'S BACKCOUNTRY
Ron's book won Best of Show for Written Works at the annual conference and competition of the Rocky Mountain Outdoor Writers and Photographers (RMOWP) in September 2019. In judging the book, Mary Taylor Young wrote, "An excellent, comprehensive guide, nicely illustrated with color photos of sites, fish, anglers, fishing flies as well as explanatory illustrations. This thorough, well-researched book covers how-tos of fishing and backpacking plus fish biology and management, while also being enjoyable to read." Several of his photographs, including those to the left, also won awards in RMOWP competitions.
Wayne Lewis, Editor/Art Director of Colorado Outdoors magazine says, "Through his long association with Colorado Outdoors magazine, I have learned more about angling from Ron Belak than any other author. His articles on fly fishing in remote, high-moutain waters have long entertained and educated our magazine's readers and staff alike."
Pat Dorsey, fly-fishing guide and author, says, "Ron Belak is one of the top authorities on Colorado's backcountry. This book is jam-packed with strategies and fly patterns to take your high-mountain lake and stream game to the next level. Belak's wealth of knowledge is accompanied by stunning photography, which makes it hard to put down."
Steve Schweitzer, author, says, "For any mountain angler, this is a must-have book overflowing with practical experience only available from someone who has traversed the trails and worn out boot leather to get it. This book is the new standard for understanding how to plan, prepare for and fish the high country, no matter where you choose to fish."
Dave Hughes, author, says, " Ron's beautiful book will take you to some new places, not all of them in Colorado, and will show you some new things to do--new ways to catch trout!--in places you already enjoy."
THE FISHING GUIDE TO 800 HIGH LAKES IN COLORADO
This book won Best of Show for Written Works at the annual conference and competition of the Rocky Mountain Outdoor Writers and Photographers (RMOWP) in October, 2021. In judging the book, Mary Taylor Young described it as, "Densely packed with information and illustrated with scenic shots and maps, this book is also entertaining to read, even for a non-angler. A hefty, information-loaded book that gives readers plenty of bang for their book-buying buck that goes beyond a serviceable-but-dull guide book. The author inserts engaging comments that make the text more interesting to read, for example referencing Never Sweat Lake with the comment that this is a name many anglers would disagree with."
Wayne Lewis, Editor/Art Director of Colorado Outdoors magazine, says, "For over two decades, Ron has entertainingly and thoughtfully provided readers with articles packed with where-to and how-to info. Many anglers do not share their favorite fishing holes, but for Ron, I think his favorite spot is the next one. And sharing his journeys is part of the fun."
Marty Bartholomew, author, writes, "The Fishing Guide to 800 High Lakes in Colorado" is an extensive work on the best high-country fishing that Colorado has to offer. Perfectly detailed directions, conditions to overcome, and what to expect are covered brilliantly. I wish I had this book 20 years ago when my legs were fresh and backpack was full. Bravo, Ron!"
Steve Schweitzer, author, says, "The staggering amount of high-altitude fishing savvy in this book took decades to collect, and to no surprise, Ron's book is the penultimate high-lake fishing compendium. Through his entertaining anecdotal stories, stunning photography and sage advice, you can plan your next trip to over 800 high lakes in Colorado--all described in necessary detail."