Best Places To Fish in Colorado
Colorado offers a diverse range of incredible fishing destinations that attract anglers from all over. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about the best fishing opportunities in the state, for a variety of fish species.
One of the best places to cast a line is the South Platte River, known for its abundant trout population. This river, with its pristine waters, offers excellent opportunities for fly fishing enthusiasts. Another favorite spot is the Blue Mesa Reservoir, Colorado's largest body of water, famous for its trophy-sized kokanee salmon and lake trout. For those seeking adventure, the Arkansas River is a top pick, renowned for its thrilling whitewater rafting and exceptional fly fishing for brown and rainbow trout. Additionally, Spinney Mountain Reservoir is a haven for avid anglers seeking trophy-sized pike, trout, and carp. Lastly, the Gunnison River is revered for its stunning scenery and world-class trout fishing, especially for the elusive and highly prized Colorado River cutthroat trout. Colorado truly has something for every angler, offering a plethora of fishing options and memorable experiences amidst breathtaking landscapes.
There are many great places to fish in The Centennial State. Our focus here is on lakes, but there are many excellent rivers and streams across the state which comprise excellent places to go fishing as well.
Colorado's Top-Five, Amazing Fishing Spots
- Chatfield Reservoir in north-central CO
- Horsetooth Reservoir in north-central CO
- Spinney Mountain Reservoir in central CO
- Lake Granby in north-central CO
- Blue Mesa Reservoir in southwest CO
Scenic natural splendor, cold clean water and healthy fish populations create excellent outings for anglers in Colorado. While there are other great lakes in the state, these are good options due to historically good fishing reports. Learn more...
Most Popular Fish Species In Colorado
Six species of trout, four species of catfish, three species of bass, three species of salmon, walleye, sauger and saugeye, stripers, sunfish and many other fun fish to catch await anglers at fishing spots across the state. Learn more...
Best Trout Lakes in Colorado
- Crystal Creek Reservoir in central CO
- Blue Mesa Reservoir in southwest CO
- Spinney Mountain Reservoir in central CO
Because we focus on lakes, this list of best places to fish for trout in Colorado does not include some of the amazing rivers and streams offering excellent trout fishing. Learn more...
Top Walleye Fishing Lakes in Colorado
- Pueblo Reservoir in central CO
- Horsetooth Reservoir in north-central CO
- Carter Lake in north-central CO
Interest in walleye fishing is increasing in Colorado. The state record is over 18 pounds and they thrive in the cold waters around the state. Learn more...
Best Places To Fish For Catfish in Colorado
- Chatfield Reservoir in north-central CO
- Adobe Creek Reservoir in southeast CO
- Blue Mesa Reservoir in southwest CO
State records for all four species of catfish exceed twenty pounds. In addition to large lakes, catfish can be found in smaller lakes and ponds - as well as rivers. Learn more...
The Best Bass Fishing Lakes in Colorado
- Pueblo Reservoir in central CO
- Horsetooth Reservoir in north-central CO
- McPhee Reservoir in southwest CO
Largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass find homes in many of the lakes throughout the state. Learn more...
Top Lakes To Fish For Salmon in Colorado
- Blue Mesa Reservoir in southwest CO
- Eleven Mile Reservoir in central CO
- Lake Granby in north-central CO
Kokanee are available at numerous lakes and rivers across the state. This site focuses on lakes, and these are three of the best places to fosh for salmon in the state. Learn more...
Enjoy these top spots to go fishing in Colorado
Find the best places to fish, by state.
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