Jason,
We did meet two salty veterans as we began our hike. They were staying at Hindman and told a similar story. Of course in my cockiness I thought I could easily find the fish, but something is definitely awry up there. I think they caught a couple at Hindman 'nuff to eat' they said, but got skunked at the other lakes. (I hope those aren't Valley Creek Lakes - I don't have a map with me)
Crimson looks to still have a decent population. I caught several there last year. But... they seem to be pickier as you said and stay out in the middle for the most part. I fashioned a floaty out of air mattresses last year, with mixed success. The smaller lake above Crimson to the SW has nice fish. It's small and deep and scenic. I caught several very healthy cutties there last summer and my buddy caught a nice 16 incher and several in the 12 range this trip. No records, but very respectable.
I'm going to go back to Tango though. I wouldn't put too much stock into my report there. I was rushed as my brother was stuck on the other side and I only spent about 2 hours at the lakes. It was midday and warm. I still thought in that gigantic lake I would have seen a ripple or some near shore. That big Tango though is gorgeous and deep. I would think it has some monster holdouts there. So.... don't take that report to litterally. It is a beautiful drainage and must be home to some beauties.
I'll email some pics.
Enjoy your trip.
Rian
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