Colorado is home to thousands of lakes and reservoirs. The exact number can vary depending on the definition used (natural lakes vs. man-made reservoirs). However, it is commonly cited that Colorado has over 4,000 lakes and reservoirs, including both natural and artificial bodies of water. Natural lakes tend to be fewer, but the state has a substantial number of reservoirs created for water storage, recreation, and other purposes.
Colorado has many popular lakes that are well-known for their beauty and recreational opportunities. Here are some of the most popular lakes in the state:
Lake Dillon (Dillon Reservoir):
Located near the towns of Dillon, Frisco, and Silverthorne.
Popular for boating, fishing, and stunning mountain views.
Has a large marina and hosts various water activities.
Grand Lake:
Colorado’s largest and deepest natural lake.
Situated at the western entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Known for its clear waters and proximity to the park, making it a favorite for boating and fishing.
Horsetooth Reservoir:
Located near Fort Collins.
Popular for water sports, including boating, fishing, swimming, and paddleboarding.
Surrounded by hiking and biking trails.
Blue Mesa Reservoir:
The largest body of water in Colorado, located in Curecanti National Recreation Area.
Known for fishing, especially for trout and salmon.
Offers boating, camping, and hiking opportunities.
Turquoise Lake:
Near Leadville in the San Isabel National Forest.
Popular for its beautiful, turquoise-colored water.
Ideal for fishing, boating, and camping.
Maroon Lake:
Famous for its iconic view of the Maroon Bells, one of the most photographed spots in Colorado.
Located near Aspen.
Popular for hiking and photography.
Bear Lake:
Located in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Known for its easy access and beautiful hiking trails.
Popular for scenic views and short, family-friendly hikes.
Shadow Mountain Lake:
Adjacent to Grand Lake, part of the Colorado River headwaters.
Connected to Grand Lake via a channel.
Great for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
These lakes attract visitors for various recreational activities and are known for their picturesque settings and natural beauty.
Colorado is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, with numerous lakes known for their abundant fish populations and beautiful settings. Here are some of the most well-known lakes in Colorado for great fishing:
Blue Mesa Reservoir:
Colorado’s largest reservoir, located in Curecanti National Recreation Area.
Famous for its kokanee salmon and large lake trout (mackinaw).
Also offers excellent fishing for rainbow trout and brown trout.
Lake Granby:
One of the largest bodies of water in Colorado, located near the town of Granby.
Known for lake trout, rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon.
Offers ice fishing in the winter.
Eleven Mile Reservoir:
Located in Eleven Mile State Park.
Known for rainbow trout, brown trout, cutthroat trout, and northern pike.
Popular for both shore and boat fishing.
Spinney Mountain Reservoir:
Close to Eleven Mile Reservoir, known for its trophy-sized trout.
Offers excellent fishing for rainbow trout, brown trout, and northern pike.
Fly fishing is particularly popular here.
North Catamount Reservoir:
Located near Colorado Springs on the North Slope of Pikes Peak.
Known for its clear waters and large populations of rainbow and cutthroat trout.
Fly fishing and trolling are common methods used here.
Rifle Gap Reservoir:
Located in Rifle Gap State Park.
Known for smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, brown trout, walleye, and yellow perch.
Offers both shore and boat fishing.
Shadow Mountain Lake:
Adjacent to Grand Lake and connected via a channel.
Known for rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon.
Great for both shore and boat fishing.
Taylor Park Reservoir:
Located near the town of Almont.
Known for its large lake trout, rainbow trout, and cutthroat trout.
Offers ice fishing in the winter.
Stagecoach Reservoir:
Located near Steamboat Springs in Stagecoach State Park.
Known for rainbow trout, brown trout, and northern pike.
Offers year-round fishing, including ice fishing.
Horsetooth Reservoir:
Near Fort Collins.
Known for smallmouth bass, walleye, rainbow trout, and crappie.
Offers a variety of fishing opportunities, both from shore and boat.
These lakes provide excellent fishing experiences for anglers of all levels, with a variety of fish species and beautiful settings.
Fishing in Colorado’s lakes is incredibly popular for several compelling reasons:
Scenic Beauty:
Colorado’s lakes are often set against breathtaking backdrops of mountains, forests, and wide-open skies. This natural beauty enhances the fishing experience, making it not just about catching fish but also about enjoying the serene environment.
Diverse Fish Species:
The state’s lakes are home to a wide variety of fish species, including trout (rainbow, brown, cutthroat), kokanee salmon, lake trout, bass (smallmouth and largemouth), walleye, pike, and more. This diversity allows anglers to target different species throughout the year.
Quality Fishing Conditions:
Colorado offers pristine and well-maintained fishing habitats. Many lakes are stocked regularly by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife department, ensuring healthy fish populations, and enhancing the fishing experience.
Year-Round Fishing Opportunities:
Fishing in Colorado is not limited to just one season. Many lakes offer excellent fishing opportunities year-round, including ice fishing in the winter, which attracts a dedicated group of anglers.
Recreational Variety:
Fishing trips in Colorado often involve more than just fishing. Lakes are located in areas that offer hiking, camping, boating, and wildlife viewing, making them great destinations for family outings and multi-activity trips.
Accessibility:
Many of Colorado’s popular fishing lakes are easily accessible by car, and there are numerous facilities like boat ramps, docks, and fishing piers that make fishing convenient for everyone, from beginners to seasoned anglers.
Community and Culture:
Fishing is a popular pastime in Colorado, fostering a strong community of anglers who share tips, stories, and camaraderie. Many towns and communities near popular fishing lakes host events, tournaments, and festivals that celebrate fishing culture.
Regulations and Conservation:
Colorado has well-regulated fishing practices that help maintain sustainable fish populations and healthy ecosystems. This ensures that fishing remains a viable activity for future generations.
Educational Opportunities:
Many programs and resources are available for those new to fishing, including classes, guides, and educational events. This makes it easy for beginners to learn and enjoy the sport.
Health Benefits:
Fishing is a relaxing activity that can reduce stress, provide physical exercise, and offer a way to connect with nature. The tranquil settings of Colorado’s lakes make fishing a perfect activity for those looking to unwind and enjoy the outdoors.
These factors combine to make fishing in Colorado’s lakes an attractive and rewarding activity for both residents and visitors.
The most popular ways to fish at the lakes in Colorado vary depending on the type of fish being targeted, the season, and personal preference. However, the following methods are widely favored:
Fly Fishing:
Particularly popular in lakes with healthy trout populations. Fly fishing involves using artificial flies as bait and requires specific techniques to mimic the natural movements of insects on the water’s surface. It is a method cherished for its skill and artistry.
Spin Fishing:
A versatile and widely used method. Anglers use spinning reels and rods with various lures, spinners, and bait (such as worms or powerbait). It is effective for catching a range of species, including trout, bass, and walleye.
Trolling:
Common on larger lakes and reservoirs. Trolling involves dragging lures or baited lines behind a slowly moving boat. It is especially effective for catching lake trout, kokanee salmon, and walleye.
Ice Fishing:
Popular during the winter months when lakes freeze over. Anglers drill holes in the ice and fish through them, often using specialized ice fishing rods and jigs. Ice fishing is popular for species like trout, pike, and perch.
Shore Fishing:
Accessible and popular among those without boats. Anglers fish from the banks using a variety of techniques, including casting lures or baited hooks. This method is suitable for catching trout, bass, and other species close to the shore.
Float Tubing:
Anglers use inflatable tubes or small personal watercraft to access deeper waters or hard-to-reach spots. This method allows for a quiet and stealthy approach, ideal for fly fishing and spin fishing.
Bait Fishing:
Using live or artificial bait, such as worms, minnows, or dough baits. This method can be used from shore, boats, or docks and is effective for a variety of fish, especially trout and bass.
Kayak Fishing:
Growing in popularity due to the mobility and access it provides. Anglers use kayaks equipped with rod holders and other fishing gear to explore lakes and target fish in various locations.
Each of these methods has its own appeal and effectiveness depending on the angler’s preference, the fish species targeted, and the specific conditions of the lake. Fly fishing and ice fishing have a strong cultural presence in Colorado, making them especially popular among locals and visitors alike.
In Colorado, you can eat the fish you catch, but there are specific regulations and guidelines that must be followed to ensure sustainable fishing practices and the health of the fish populations.
Here is an overview of the considerations and regulations regarding keeping and eating fish caught in Colorado:
Regulations and Limits:
Daily Bag and Possession Limits:
The Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) sets daily bag and possession limits for different species of fish to ensure sustainable fishing. These limits vary by location and species. For example, there might be specific limits for trout, bass, walleye, and other species.
Size Limits:
Some lakes and reservoirs have size limits, meaning you can only keep fish that are within a certain size range. This helps protect younger fish and ensures that larger, breeding-sized fish are returned to the water.
Seasonal Restrictions:
Certain waters may have seasonal restrictions where fishing is only allowed during specific times of the year to protect fish during their spawning periods.
Health and Safety Guidelines:
Consumption Advisories:
Some lakes and rivers may have consumption advisories due to potential contamination from mercury or other pollutants. The CPW and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) provide information on these advisories. It is important to check for any advisories before consuming fish from a particular water body.
Cleaning and Preparing Fish:
Proper cleaning and preparation of fish are essential to ensure they are safe to eat. This includes gutting, scaling, and cooking the fish to the appropriate temperature to eliminate any harmful bacteria or parasites.
Catch and Release:
Conservation Efforts:
While keeping and eating fish is allowed, catch and release practices are encouraged in certain areas, especially in waters designated as catch-and-release only. This helps maintain healthy fish populations and ensures that more anglers can enjoy fishing opportunities.
Specific Waters and Species:
Designated Waters:
Some waters in Colorado are specifically managed as trophy fisheries or catch-and-release waters. Regulations in these areas are stricter to promote conservation and the health of fish populations.
Before heading out to fish, it is crucial to:
Consult the Current Fishing Regulations:
Check the latest Colorado Fishing Regulations brochure, available on the CPW website or at local sporting goods stores. This will provide detailed information on bag and possession limits, size restrictions, and any special regulations for specific waters.
Check for Advisories:
Look up any fish consumption advisories for the area where you plan to fish to ensure the fish are safe to eat.
By following these guidelines and regulations, anglers can enjoy fishing in Colorado’s beautiful lakes and reservoirs while contributing to the sustainability and health of the fish populations.
Colorado hosts numerous fishing tournaments throughout the year at various lakes and reservoirs. These tournaments cater to different types of fishing, target various species, and often include categories for both amateur and professional anglers. Here are some notable fishing tournaments in Colorado:
Ice Fishing Tournaments:
Three Lakes Ice Fishing Contest: Held on Grand Lake, Shadow Mountain Lake, and Lake Granby, this is one of the largest and most popular ice fishing tournaments in Colorado.
Stagecoach State Park Ice Fishing Tournament: Known for targeting northern pike, this tournament attracts many anglers during the winter months.
Trout Tournaments:
Blue Mesa Reservoir Trout Tournament: This tournament focuses on lake trout and is held at Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest body of water in Colorado.
Eleven Mile Reservoir Trout Fishing Contest: Known for its large trout, Eleven Mile Reservoir hosts various trout fishing tournaments throughout the year.
Bass Fishing Tournaments:
Horsetooth Reservoir Bass Tournaments: Horsetooth Reservoir near Fort Collins is a popular spot for bass fishing tournaments, including events organized by local bass clubs.
Aurora Reservoir Bass Tournaments: Aurora Reservoir hosts several bass fishing tournaments, attracting anglers from around the state.
Pike and Walleye Tournaments:
Cherry Creek Reservoir Walleye Tournament: This event focuses on walleye fishing and is held at Cherry Creek Reservoir near Denver.
Pueblo Reservoir Fishing Tournaments: Pueblo Reservoir hosts various fishing tournaments, including those targeting walleye and other species.
Kokanee Salmon Tournaments:
Granby Kokanee Salmon Tournament: Held at Lake Granby, this tournament targets kokanee salmon and is popular among local anglers.
Fly Fishing Competitions:
Fly Fishing Team USA Competitions: Colorado often hosts events for Fly Fishing Team USA, attracting top fly anglers who compete in various rivers and lakes.
These tournaments often include prizes for the largest fish, the most fish caught, and other categories, and they can be great opportunities for anglers to test their skills, meet fellow fishing enthusiasts, and enjoy the outdoor beauty of Colorado. Additionally, many of these tournaments have divisions for adults, youth, and sometimes specific categories for catch-and-release fishing, promoting sustainable fishing practices.
The most popular type of fish that people consistently go to Colorado to catch is trout, particularly rainbow trout. Colorado is renowned for its excellent trout fishing due to its numerous pristine lakes, reservoirs, and rivers that provide ideal habitats for various trout species. Here is a closer look at why trout, especially rainbow trout, are so popular:
Reasons for Popularity:
Abundance:
Rainbow trout are stocked regularly by Colorado Parks and Wildlife in many lakes and reservoirs, ensuring a steady population for anglers.
Accessibility:
Rainbow trout can be found in many of Colorado’s easily accessible waters, making them a convenient target for anglers of all skill levels.
Variety of Habitats:
Colorado offers diverse fishing environments, from high mountain streams and alpine lakes to large reservoirs and tailwaters, all of which support healthy trout populations.
Fishing Methods:
Rainbow trout can be caught using various methods, including fly fishing, spin fishing, and bait fishing. This versatility appeals to a wide range of anglers.
Seasonal Opportunities:
Trout fishing in Colorado is a year-round activity. In the summer, anglers enjoy fishing in cool mountain streams and lakes, while winter brings popular ice fishing opportunities.
Other Popular Trout Species in Colorado:
Brown Trout:
Known for their elusive nature and fight, brown trout are highly sought after in Colorado’s rivers and lakes.
Cutthroat Trout:
Colorado is home to several subspecies of cutthroat trout, including the Colorado River, Greenback, and Rio Grande cutthroat trout. These native species are particularly popular among anglers interested in conservation and heritage fishing.
Brook Trout:
Often found in smaller streams and high-altitude lakes, brook trout are another favorite among anglers, especially those fishing in remote or backcountry areas.
Lake Trout:
Also known as mackinaw, lake trout are popular in larger, deeper reservoirs like Blue Mesa and Granby Lake. They grow to impressive sizes and provide a unique challenge for anglers.
Popular Trout Fishing Destinations in Colorado:
Blue River:
Known for its healthy population of rainbow and brown trout, the Blue River is a prime fishing spot.
Animas River:
The Animas River in southwestern Colorado offers excellent trout fishing, particularly for brown trout.
Fryingpan River:
Famous for its large rainbow and brown trout, the Fryingpan River is a renowned fly fishing destination.
Lake Granby:
A popular spot for lake trout, kokanee salmon, and rainbow trout.
Eleven Mile Reservoir:
Known for its trophy-sized rainbow and cutthroat trout.
Trout fishing in Colorado provides a diverse and rewarding experience, drawing anglers from around the country to its beautiful and fish-rich waters.
To find more information about fishing in the lakes in Colorado, there are several excellent resources you can utilize:
Official Resources:
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW):
The CPW website is the primary source for information on fishing regulations, licenses, fish species, stocking reports, and fishing conditions in Colorado. They provide detailed guides and maps for fishing locations across the state.
Website: Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Fishing Regulations Brochure:
CPW publishes an annual fishing regulations brochure that includes important information on bag limits, size limits, seasonal restrictions, and special regulations for specific waters.
Available online or at local CPW offices and sporting goods stores.
Online Communities and Forums:
Fishing Forums:
Websites like Fish Explorer and My Fishing Buddy have active forums where anglers share reports, tips, and information about fishing conditions in Colorado lakes.
Websites: Fish Explorer and My Fishing Buddy
Social Media Groups:
Facebook groups and other social media platforms often have local fishing communities where members discuss recent trips, share photos, and provide advice on fishing in Colorado.
Local Resources:
Local Bait and Tackle Shops:
Local shops are great sources of current information on what’s biting and where. The staff can provide insights on the best baits, lures, and fishing spots.
Guides and Outfitters:
Hiring a local fishing guide can provide a wealth of knowledge, especially if you are new to the area or targeting a specific species. Guides often have up-to-date information on local conditions and hotspots.
Books and Magazines:
Fishing Guidebooks:
There are several guidebooks dedicated to fishing in Colorado, offering detailed descriptions of lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, as well as tips for successful fishing.
Popular titles include “Fishing Colorado: An Angler’s Complete Guide to More Than 125 Top Fishing Spots” by Ron Baird.
Outdoor Magazines:
Magazines like Colorado Outdoors often feature articles on fishing locations, techniques, and stories from local anglers.
Apps and Technology:
Fishing Apps:
Apps like Fishbrain, Angler’s Atlas, and Fishidy provide maps, user reports, and catch data for various fishing spots in Colorado. These apps can help you track conditions, find new spots, and connect with other anglers.
Websites: Fishbrain, Angler’s Atlas, and Fishidy
Conservation and Educational Organizations:
Trout Unlimited:
The Colorado chapters of Trout Unlimited often have events, workshops, and resources focused on fishing and conservation.
Website: Colorado Trout Unlimited
Local Fishing Clubs:
Joining a local fishing club can provide opportunities for learning, networking, and participating in events and tournaments.
By exploring these resources, you can gather comprehensive information to enhance your fishing experience in Colorado’s beautiful lakes.
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