10-Favorite Fishing Destinations for Colorado

When visitors talk about Colorado, generally topics lead to skiing and hiking. However, there are over 38-reservoirs, lakes, rivers and streams spread throughout the state and yet another reason many vacation in CO as a premier destination. From the far corners of Nebraska and Kansas all the way to Utah, you’ll find some of the most incredible outdoor scenery we’re calling ‘Clickbait’ for Colorado’s waterways and a chance for you to grab your pole. Here are 10-favorite fishing destinations for Colorado you’re going to love. We’re goin’ fishing.

Yampa River and Elkhead is 250-Miles full of Trout and Pike

You’ll find up to 50-sites along Yampa which is a major body of water running deep through Hayden, Colorado and up to Steamboat. The approximate 250-mile river is a place where you can cast your line and snag a trout or even a pike. In addition, if you’re going to try your luck by boat Elkhead Reservoir provides an excellent place to launch most vessels. Hit the waterways early though, as many state parks fill up fast this time of year. All the beautiful scenery makes a wonderful road trip ideal for Memorial Day or July 4th weekends.

Dry Lake Reservoir a Fly-fishing Paradise

The location near Bayfield, Colorado inside of Archuleta County offers plenty of fun for anglers at Dry Lake Reservoir. All ages looking to do some fly-fishing will enjoy this awesome fishing hole. Between bait and technique lure in a few species of trout, making this a paradise for any outdoorsman and certainly part of the favorite fishing destinations in the country.

Navajo Reservoir are Part of the 10-Favorite Fishing Destinations

The Navajo Reservoir & San Juan River both fit into the 10-favorite locations for fishing in Colorado. However, boat owners need to take caution cleaning the watercraft as park officials inspect for aquatic nuisance species. In an effort to keep fish and wildlife from harm; a thorough inspection ensures the vessel doesn’t have mud or debris attached. Prior to bringing any boat into our waterways, it is good to do the following:

1. Draining your wells
2. Empty buckets
3. Do NOT wash your boat near open storm sewers that lead to our water as well.

Can we ALL agree? The best part about following the rules having a beautiful environment free of dangerous animals or substances. Along with saving the environment the fun of triggering a few trout, catfish, or other fin friends is far more enjoyable? Bet there is some truth there!

John Martin Reservoir a Place for the Biggest Catch of the Season

When we say the biggest catch, we mean the BIGGEST coming from Colorado’s warm waters. Crappie and Saugeye are two of breeds you’ll find migrating below the dam. This Bent County location is perfect for beginners & experienced sports persons where there is plenty of deep water to do some incredible fishing. Check the weather and be sure to ask the bait & tackle folks what the best lures are for the day. Many of the locals will also tell you what ‘They’ are biting on that day.

Big Thompson River A Place Where the Trout Give a Dam?

The “Big T” at Olympus Dam is another sweet spot to wrestle up some Rainbow or Brown Trout. You may also snag a carp or chub but they aren’t always the best for eating. However, no one cares what is at the end of the pole when the Colorado sunshine brings out the best in any fishing excursion. Big Thompson River is a place where you can say “The Trout Don’t Give a Dam” unless they are jumping upstream during spawning season. That’s when the good times are rolling and your fishing basket is full of grill-worthy seafood. Bon Appétit®’

Cache La Poudre Will Make You Say Goin’ Fishing

Fishing Cache la Poudre is not what many believe to be just a fish hatchery. On the contrary, the body of water gets wild in some places when the spring is sprung turning it into a white water rafting extravaganza. However, you’ll find a vast amount of fish-talk about salmon running this river. Whereas most residents and avid fishermen or women will tell you these fish are a very rare find. On the flip-side, wild, brown and cutthroat trout are plentiful. No matter what, you’ll enjoy the challenge of reeling them in even if you’re fishing from the shore. 

Horsetooth Reservoir is ‘Clickbait’ for Colorado’s Waterways

In parts of the Mid-West, you won’t hear fish called “Walleye.” Instead fine dining restaurants call these fish Pickerel. We Northern Coloradans refer to them as Walleye where Horsetooth Reservoir is a good place to catch & release. Unless you enjoy eating them which is perfectly fine. At the 1900-acre property, you’ll find more than walleye on a hook. We also know Larimer County for bluegill, perch and crappie. All these can taste excellent when breaded and grilled with a scoop of tartar sauce. Such an enormous body of water, you’ll find many people love to boat and paddle as well. Just remember to watch for black bear along the wooded areas. No matter what you’ll encounter, you’ll have memories lasting a lifetime.

Lake Loveland a Top Fishing Destination for Northern Colorado 

This next Larimer County hub is one you’ll find full of catfish among other beauties. As the Reporter Herald describes the excitement of re-opening after a year of closure because of the pandemic, old traditions re-emerge like the Kid’s Derby. This year they will hold it on June 5th where families will come hoping to win the prize for the best fish. Certainly, something to add on your calendar.

Boyd Lake Offers a 1700 Acre Angler’s Playground

Bluegill, smallmouth bass, and some rainbow trout are all swimming through these waters. Boyd Lake State Park is located only 3-miles from Loveland and is a national attraction as an angler’s playground.  Other than the many people coming to the park for fishing, it is an excellent body of water to own a home as you can enjoy the view year around. Be sure to check with us for homes available to buy.

“Most are in the 8- to 12-inch range, but they can grow into the mid 20s. A 2-pounder is a good fish, and a 5-pounder is a trophy.”

Blue Mesa Reservoir, Your Secret Fishing Hole for Kokanee Salmon

We cap this article off with a spot to pull an American favorite out from the wilderness nearly ready to grill! The Blue Mesa Reservoir is a secret, (Shhh), fishing hole for Kokanee Salmon. These beautiful creatures run almost all year and make a hardy meal perfect for celebrating Memorial Day if you’re in Gunnison County. 

There you have it 10 of the best Colorado fishing destinations primed and ready for you to hit up this summer. Try one or try em all, just get out there. Treat yourself to a day of relaxing, while mixing just the right excitement you get with a bite or bobber bouncing. Between the fish and our incredible rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, it might be difficult to pick one. We just hope you do.

Contact John Feeney to learn about properties near the lake or other parts of Northern Colorado. Dial 970-231-4172 for details on vacation & mountain homes.