Over the past 10 years, ice fishing has grown more popular. Almost 25% of all Colorado anglers wet lines through the ice between December and late February, according to the 2004 Statewide Angler Survey. The use of portable fishing shelters, electronic fish locators, and new and old bait types have increased angler success. In addition, through its late-fall stocking program, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) Hatchery Program has helped to ensure there are plenty of fish to catch.
Don’t hesitate to contact local tackle shops and state parks for up-to-the-minute reports on fishing conditions.
For more details about fishery management at waters across Colorado, please see our Fishery Survey Summaries page.
NOTE OF CAUTION: Anglers, because of the unseasonably warm weather, please be extra careful to check local contacts for up-to-date ice conditions and take safety precautions before heading out. To review basic ice fishing safety considerations, please see Ice Fishing Safety.
Waters by Region
Please be sure to check the dates next to the region for "last updated" information.
| For more Information on fishing conditions in your area, please contact your local CPW Office. |
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NORTHEAST REGION (last updated 3/7/2013)
Antero Reservoir: This 2200 acre impoundment is located north of US Highway 24 between Antero Junction and the town of Hartsel. Currently, catch rates are spotty with the best action occurring in the morning hours. Rainbow trout are averaging 14-18” with an occasional larger fish being seen, with many fish in the five pound range. Brown trout, cutthroat trout, splake and brook trout are also present. Ice thickness ranges from twenty to twenty six inches. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, please contact Colorado Parks and Wildlife Northeast Region CPW Office (303-291-7227) or The Jefferson Market (719-836-2389).
Aurora Reservoir: This 820 acre impoundment is located on Quincy Avenue, one mile east of Gun Club Road. The potential for nice rainbow trout and large walleyes is good here. Check out the fishery survey summary for more information. As of March 7, the ice has deteriorated, varying from 0-5” thick with the ice in Senac, Lonetree and Marina coves being the thickest. Water adjacent to the dam is 2/3 open and anglers are catching walleyes there. Anglers have also been catching rainbow trout and walleyes in the coves. Try jigging spoons tipped with minnows, and drill holes until you find the fish. For updated conditions, contact Aurora Reservoir Park (303-690-1633).
Bear Creek Reservoir: This 205 acre impoundment is located on Morrison Road, just east of C-470 in Lakewood. Fish that can be caught include saugeye over 20” and rainbow trout. Check out the updated fishery survey summary for more information. As of March 7, the ice varies from 0-6” thick, with thin ice near some shorelines. Fishing for trout has been good using minnows. When fishing for saugeyes, drill holes until you find the fish. For updated ice conditions, contact Bear Creek Lake Park (303-697-6159).
Boyd Lake: This 1700 acre reservoir, located in Loveland, also serves a state park. For additional updates contact Boyd Lake State Park (970-669-1739). Fishing for trout has been excellent but ice conditions are deteriorating fast. The ice in marina cove measure about 4 inches but there is very thin ice around the water’s edge. Call the Boyd Office to be certain conditions are favorable; but please use caution.
Chambers Lake: This 250 acre impoundment is located seven miles east of the top of Cameron Pass on Highway 14 and requires some hiking to get to the lake. Chambers offers opportunities to catch cutthroat, rainbow, Kokanee salmon and lake trout through the ice. Expect lake trout 10-18” though much larger fish are present as well. It is very uncommon but a 27 pound lake trout was recently reported caught through the ice. Fishing has been good with most anglers doing well using tipped tube jigs and finding the right depth to fish in. Ice depth is over 24” but watch for slushy pockets of water above the ice. The inlet bay at shallower depths is usually best for trout.
Chatfield Reservoir: This 1,100 acre impoundment is located on South Wadsworth Boulevard- about 0.5 miles south of C-470. Fish which can be caught include rainbow trout 15-18”, walleye over 24”, smallmouth bass, bluegill and black crappie. Check out the updated fishery survey summary for more information. As of March 7, ice thickness was highly variable, from 4-10” thick. Some anglers have been catching stocked trout on tube jigs off the swim beach or walleyes near the dam. For walleyes, try fishing the dam or old road bed with jigging spoons tipped with wax worms or nightcrawlers. Smallmouth bass have been caught near the outlet tower. Drill holes until you find the fish. For updated ice conditions, contact Chatfield State Park (303-791-7275).
Cherry Creek Reservoir: This 800 acre impoundment is located just east of I-225 and south of Parker Road. Fish that can be caught include rainbow trout, walleye over 24”. Check out the updated fishery survey summary for more information. As of March 7 the reservoir is free of ice. For updated ice conditions, contact Cherry Creek State Park (303-699-3860).
Cowdrey: This 80 acre reservoir is located along Highway 125, seven miles north of Walden. The lake has about 20” of ice. With a couple seasons without a winterkill, Cowdrey has been producing some bigger fish this ice fishing season. Expect rainbows, cuttbows and the occasional brook trout. This is a great place to take kids for success. Try jigging smaller lures tipped with waxworms. Fishing has slowed down in the last few weeks. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the North Park Chamber of Commerce (970-723-4600).
Delaney Buttes: This State Wildlife Area is located 10 miles west of Walden. Please be aware of the special regulations that exist for fishing this property. Ice conditions are good with ice around 20". Expect to find smaller rainbows and browns at East Delaney (65 ac.), rainbows and snake river cutthroats in the 14-16” range at South Delaney (150 ac.) and larger browns that tend to be a bit more difficult to catch at North Delaney (165 ac.) Fishing has been good for 12-16” fish at North Delaney but angler success has been slowing for all the Delaney Butte Lakes in the last week or two. Please refer to your fishing regulation brochure for special regulations. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Lake John Resort (970-723-3226). North Park Chamber of Commerce (970-723-4600).
Elevenmile Reservoir: This 3400 acre impoundment is located south of US Highway 24 between Wilkerson Pass and the town of Hartsel. Elevenmile Reservoir is consistently producing rainbow trout, rainbow x cutthroat hybrid trout, and Snake River rainbow trout in the 14-20” range with 5-9 pound fish showing up regularly, with the largest fish pushing twelve pounds. Fishing for brown trout will be slower than for rainbows and cutthroats. Kokanee fishing is fair to good with the bulk of the catch being two year olds. Pike fishing for fish up to 20 pounds is fair. Ice thickness ranges from twenty two to twenty eight inches. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact Elevenmile State Park (719-748-3401).
Evergreen Lake: This 42 acre impoundment is located just upstream of downtown Evergreen, on State Route 74 (Evergreen Parkway). Fish that can be caught include rainbow trout, brown trout, and an occasional tiger musky. As of March 7, the ice thickness was at least 15”. Fishing for trout has been variable, but with some good catches of stocked trout. More fish have been caught early in the day. Try wax worms, nightcrawlers or meal worms on an ice fly or jig.
Georgetown Lake: This 54 acre impoundment is located on I-70 just north of the town of Georgetown. Fish that can be caught include rainbow trout and brown trout. As of March 7, the ice is at least 15” thick. However, be careful near the bridge connecting the north and south basins, as water in this area has current and ice can be thinner than in other spots. Fishing is better early or late in the day, slow during the midday. Anglers have been catching rainbow and brown trout on Kastmasters or white tube jigs tipped with wax worms or meal worms. Fishing in the smaller south basin has been better than the larger north basin.
Hohnholz Lakes: These three lakes are located west of the Laramie River Road (CR 103) 30 miles north of Highway 14.. Hohnholz #2, is 37 acres and has rainbow trout and snake river cutthroat trout ranging 12-16”. Hohnholz #3 is 40 acres and has snake river cutthroat and brown trout up to 18”. Ice at both lakes is over 18 inches and solid. Hohnholz lakes have gotten very little fishing pressure this season so try these lakes if you are looking to get away from crowds. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact West Laramie Fly Store (888-745-9565).
Jackson Reservoir: This 2,967 acre reservoir is located approximately 32 miles east of Greeley and 10 miles north of Wiggins. As of 3/6/2013 the very thin layer of ice yielded unfavorable ice fishing conditions. The ice, which was covering 90% of the reservoir’s surface, will likely melt and/or be broken up by the wind in the next one to two weeks so anglers should plan on fishing open-water. The Park plans to open the boat ramp on March 16 if open-water conditions exist. For more information about Jackson Reservoir, please see the fishery survey summary. For up-to-date fishing and ice conditions, visit the State Park's website or contact the park directly at 970-645-2551.
Jefferson: This 145 acre impoundment is located northwest of Jefferson. After the first decent snow fall of the season, the road to Jefferson Lake will become impassable for vehicles except snow machines. Depending on snow drifts, many times by mid-winter the road becomes impassable for snow machines. The ice usually recedes from Jefferson Lake the last week of May. This winter anglers can seek to catch rainbow trout in the 12-14” range, mackinaw averaging 12-18” with a few large fish and possibly a few brook trout. The Forest Service has installed a new gate at the pay station which severely limits access to the lake except for snow machines. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Jefferson Market (719-836-2389) or Hondo Arms (719-836-7235).
Jumbo Reservoir: This 1,570 acre reservoir is located 35 miles northeast of Sterling and six miles west of Sedgwick. As of 3/6/2013 very little ice remained. The boat ramp will open for the season as soon as the reservoir is ice-free. During March the ramp will be open on Thursday through Monday from ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset. Beginning in April the ramp will be open seven days per week from ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset. For more information about Jumbo Reservoir, please see the fishery survey summary.
Lake John: This 565 acre impoundment is located 15 miles northwest of Walden. Ice conditions are good with thickness over 20 inches. Lake John grows fat rainbow trout, snake river cutthroat trout and cuttbows. Action has been slowing down but anglers are still getting into plenty of fish in the 10-16” range. Fish are dispersed throughout the lake but between 6 and 16 feet of water seems to be the preferred range. Bait is allowed at Lake John but no live minnows. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Lake John Resort (970-723-3226).
Lon Hagler Reservoir: This reservoir covers about 580 acres at full pool and is open year round to fishing. Bass must be 18 inches in length to keep at Lon Hagler; the limit for bass is one. Open to boating. Visit the fishery survey summary page to learn more about this reservoir. Ice cover is roughly 4 inches along the south shore, anglers have reported catching trout and largemouth bass. The ice season at Long Hagler is coming to a close.
Red Feather Lakes: The Red Feather Lakes are northwest of Fort Collins about 20 miles west of Livermore. Parvin, Dowdy and West lakes are located on the east side of town. Bellaire Lake is a bit further south off of CR 162, and there is a short walk into the lake. Bellaire is 10 acres and has rainbow trout. All of the lakes are in good shape with about 12 inches of ice. Bellaire is now open to walk in access. Dowdy Lake is 115 acres. Fishing has been great for rainbows around 10” and occasional larger 'bows and browns. Fish seem to be going after anything presented. Dowdy had a flare-up of anchor worm earlier this summer that causes red sores on the side of fish. This does not affect the meat and these fish are safe to eat when properly cooked. West is 25 acres. Try small jigs for browns and rainbows. Parvin is 63 acres. Fishing has been uncommonly hot for rainbows 12-16 at Parvin with tiny green jigs and jigging minnows some of the go to lures. Note that Parvin is fly and lure only and has a different bag limit from other lakes in the area. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Fort Collins CPW office (970-472-4300).
Seymour: This lake is 81 acres and located about 15 miles south of Walden. Seymour has rainbows ranging up to 16” and the ice thickness is over 20 inches. Try Seymour if you are looking to get away from crowds on other North Park waters. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Lake John Resort (970-723-3226).
St. Vrain State Park Ponds: Sandpiper, Coot and Mallard ponds were heavily stocked with 10" trout, plenty of open water. For additional information contact the St. Vrain State Park entry station (303-678-9402). Ice fishing has ended this season but great trout fishing remains.
Tarryall Reservoir: This 175 acre impoundment is located along Park County Road 77 between Jefferson and Lake George. This winter anglers can expect to catch rainbow trout averaging 12-14” with a few large fish here and there, such as brown trout, cutthroat trout and northern pike up to 36”. Catch rates are currently excellent, limits are being had. We encourage the harvest of all northern pike caught. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact The Jefferson Market (719-836-2389) or Hondo Arms (719-836-7235).
NORTHWEST REGION (last updated 3/18 - 4/2/2013)
Dillon Reservoir: Kokanee fishing slowed from mid-Jan to mid-February.
Elkhead Reservoir: Ice is slowly melting although ice conditions are still safe to fish. Fishing continues to be slow with not many fish being caught. Warm weather will continue to degrade ice conditions so please use caution while fishing. Contact Yampa River State Park (970-276-2061) for up to date information on ice conditions and safety.
Granby Reservoir: Call Budget Tackle in Granby at (970) 887-9344 for more information and current updates.
Green Mountain Reservoir: Fishing has remained good for small lake trout and rainbows, with some larger fish being taken. Anglers are encouraged to harvest small lake trout. Call Master Bait and Tackle in Heeney at 970-724-3677 for current conditions.
Gypsum Ponds: Gyspum Ponds is no longer accessible safely on the ice due to warming weather and work on the ponds that has led to changes in water levels. Spring stocking of catchable trout will begin in April.
Harvey Gap Reservoir: Ice is in poor condition, as the reservoir continues to fill. The reservoir is open on the west side near the inlet, and the shorelines are open water. Yellow perch have been taken reservoir-wide, with northern pike concentrated in the shallow areas and along the shorelines. Always take precautions, such as wearing a life jacket and a long rope tied to a shoreline anchor, and drilling test holes. Ice rescue stations are located in several locations throughout the park. Weekly updates on ice conditions and angling success will be provided on the Colorado State Parks website. Anglers may also contact Harvey Gap/Rifle Gap State Park, 5775 Hwy. 325, Rifle, CO, 81650; Phone: 970-625-1607.
Lake Avery: Adequate ice is still covering the entire lake with pockets of open water developing along the shoreline. Fishing and fishing pressure has slowed with warmer weather. As temperatures continue to increase into spring the ice will become slushy and unsafe for fishing. Contact the Parks and Wildlife Meeker Office (970-878-6090) for up to date information on ice conditions and safety.
Pearl Lake: Ice fishing for cutthroat trout and grayling are allowed. Please note that only flies & lures are allowed, with a bag limit of two trout 18” or longer. The road is only maintained to approximately ¾ of a mile from the lake. Anglers have to ski or hike from that point. There has been minimal fishing pressure on Pearl Lake to speak of. Weekly updates on ice conditions and angling success will be provided on the Colorado State Parks website. Anglers may also contact Steamboat Lake State Park at (970) 879-3922 or steamboat.lake@state.co.us.
Rifle Gap Reservoir: Ice is in poor condition, as the reservoir continues to fill. The reservoir is open in the west and east inlet areas, and the shorelines are open water. Yellow perch are slowing down, but fishing for rainbow trout has been consistent. Anglers are also having luck with northern pike. Always take precautions, such as wearing a life jacket and a long rope tied to a shoreline anchor, and drilling test holes. Ice rescue stations are located in several locations throughout the park. Weekly updates on ice conditions and angling success will be provided on the Colorado State Parks website. Anglers may also contact Harvey Gap/Rifle Gap State Park, 5775 Hwy. 325, Rifle, CO, 81650; Phone: 970-625-1607.
Rio Blanco Lake: Warm weather conditions have opened up 3-5 feet of open water along the entire shoreline. Current cold weather could extend fishing for a few additional days but the ice fishing season is almost over. Fishing for crappie has been spotty while northern pike fishing has been consistent all year. Contact the Parks and Wildlife Meeker Office (970-878-6090) before planning a fishing trip for up to date information on ice conditions and safety.
Ruedi Reservoir: Ice on Ruedi is starting to get a bit messy. Areas near the dam, inlets and coves are not safe. Recommend against using any snow machines on the ice. If warm weather persists, ice conditions will continue to deteriorate and may not be safe for walk-on access by the beginning of April. Fish that can be caught in Ruedi include lake trout, kokanee, rainbow trout and brown trout. additionally, anglers may catch illegally introduced yellow perch and are encouraged to remove them from the lake. Local contact info for water: U.S. Forest Service, P.O. Box 948, Glenwood Springs, CO, 81601, Phone: 303-963-2266.
Shadow Mountain/Grand Lake: Fishing in the open water on the east end of Grand Lake has been good for rainbows. Call Rocky Mountain Outfitters at 970-798-8021 for current conditions.
Stagecoach Reservoir: Fishing has been fairly good for catchable rainbow trout in the coves, and off the points throughout the lake at 8’ to 18’ of water. Trout in the 16” – 20” range are being reported in the catch, but several are averaging 14" to 16". An assortment of terminal tackle has been producing, such as jigs tipped with powerbait, wax worms, night crawlers, tube jigs, castmasters, solo night crawlers, salmon eggs, spoons, etc. The ice is approximately 18 inches thick, with a few inches of snow cover. There are areas of slush, especially over the deeper water, and in the afternoons during warm spring days. Northern pike fishing has been slow, but some smaller fish are being picked up sporadically. In an effort to maintain a healthy trout fishery, the harvest of northern pike is encouraged. Northern pike are good-eating, and numerous recipes are available on line. Weekly updates on ice conditions, access, accommodations and angling success will be provided on the Colorado State Parks website. Anglers may also contact Stagecoach State Park at 970-736-8342 or stagecoach.park@state.co.us.
Steamboat Lake: Fishing has been very good for rainbow trout in approximately 8’–12’ of water. The Marina cove area, in particular, has been fishing well with numerous 18” – 22” trout being caught. The ice is approximately 20” thick with about 12” of snow on top. There is currently a slush layer of about 8” thick. Warm spring days result an increase in slush. An assortment of terminal tackle has been producing, such as jigs tipped with powerbait, night crawlers, tube jigs, castmasters, jigging rapalas, etc.; however, wax worms and meal worms have been producing especially well. Weekly updates on ice conditions, access, accommodations and angling success is provided on the Colorado State Parks website. Anglers may also contact Steamboat Lake State Park at (970) 879-3922 or steamboat.lake@state.co.us.
Sweetwater Lake: Rainbow and brookie fishing continues to be good. Tackle suggestions: wax or meal worms with colorful small jigs. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout and (recently) kokanee, and contains wild brook trout and brown trout. Feral kokanee are occasionally caught and stocked kokanee may start be large enough to catch this winter, as well. For up-to-date conditions and local information, contact the U.S. Forest Service- White River National Forest, Phone: 303-945-3255.
Sylvan Lake: Still good with meal worms on bright colored jigs especially for Brookies and smaller Rainbows. The top layer can be slushy on warmer days. Unsafe areas of ice can always exist so please USE CAUTION! Biweekly updates on ice conditions and angling success will be provided on the Colorado State Parks website. Anglers may also contact Sylvan Lake State Park, 10200 Brush Creek Rd., P.O. Box 1475, Eagle, CO, 81631, Phone: 970-328-2021, sylvan.lake.park@state.co.us.
Vega Reservoir: Currently, ice thickness is approximately 10"-18", but varies around the reservoir, especially near the inlet areas. Trout in the 12"-14" range are being reported by anglers targeting shallow water areas. Anglers are having luck fishing near the bottom using a small ice jig tipped with salmon eggs, or meal and wax worms. Always take precautions, such as wearing a life jacket and a long rope tied to a shoreline anchor, and drilling test holes. Ice rescue stations are located in several locations throughout the park. Weekly updates on ice conditions and angling success will be provided on the Colorado State Parks website. Anglers may also contact Vega Reservoir State Park, P.O. Box 186, Collbran, CO 81624; Phone: 970-487-3407.
Williams Fork Reservoir: Fishing has been fair for lake trout and rainbows. Williams Fork has an abundance of small lake trout currently, and anglers are encouraged to harvest a full bag limit of smaller lake trout if possible.
Wolford Reservoir: Fishing has been excellent for rainbows, and some kokanee have been taken near the dam. Call the Kremmling Chamber of Commerce at (970) 724-3472 for information.
SOUTHEAST REGION (last updated 3/20/2013)
Brush Hollow: This is a 200 acre lake is located near Penrose off of Highway 115. The reservoir is currently ice free and the water level is low. Fishing has been fair to good with a few walleye being caught from shore. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the DOW Salida office (719-530-5520).
Clear Creek Reservoir: This 400 acre reservoir is located between Buena Vista and Leadville and is a consistently good ice fishing lake. Ice covers the lake at this time and it is actively being fished, however fishing is slow at this time. Use caution around the edges of the lake in the afternoon when warming conditions can make for softening around the edges. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Salida Area Office (719-530-5520).
Cottonwood Lake: This 40 acre reservoir is located west of Buena Vista on U.S. Forest Service land. Ice covers the lake at this time and it is actively being fished. Use caution near inlet or outlet as moving water undercuts the ice in those areas. Fishing is fair and those who are catching fish are using mainly meal worms for bait. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Salida office (719-530-5520).
De Weese Reservoir: Located near Westcliffe. Ice on the reservoir is deteriorating rapidly and ice fishing is unsafe. Fishermen utilizing open water have been doing well with power bait. For current conditions, contact the Pueblo Area Office (719-561-5300).
Frantz Lake: This lake, located in Salida, is ice free at this time. Fish are being caught with meal worms and salmon eggs for the most part, fish are relatively small but are being caught at a good rate. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Salida Area office (719-530-5520).
Hayden Meadows Reservoir: This is a small (5 acres) lake located along Highway 24 just south of Leadville. The lake is ice covered and should be safe to walk on for fishing. Fishing success is fair at this time, fishermen are having success using power bait and meal worms on jigs. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Salida office (719-530-5520).
Hugo SWA: Hugo State Wildlife Area is located 14 miles south of the town of Hugo on CR109 then 2¼ miles east on CR2G. The ponds are currently ice free.
Karval Reservoir: This 20 acre lake is located SE of Karval. The reservoir is currently ice free. For updated ice conditions, contact the Colorado Springs Area Office (719-227-5200).
Kinney Lake: This small lake is located south of Hugo (go 11 miles south of Hugo on CR109 then 1 mile east on CR2J and take CR33 to the north). The reservoir is currently ice free. For updated ice conditions, contact the Colorado Springs Area Office (719-227-5200).
Lake Isabel: Also called San Isabel Reservoir, this 30 acre lake is on U.S. Forest Service land off of Highway 165 just west of Rye. Ice is rapidly becoming unsafe and anglers should use extreme caution. The edges of the lake are very slushy and are starting to open up. For updated ice conditions, contact the Pueblo Area Office (719-561-5300).
Manitou Reservoir: Located just north of Woodland Park, this 16 acre reservoir is situated on U.S. Forest Service lands. Any ice should be considered unsafe at this time. A $5 entry fee at the gate from the USFS must be paid in order to fish. Anglers are encouraged to contact the USFS at 636-1602 for current conditions as well as hours of operation. Anglers may also contact the Colorado Springs Parks and Wildlife office (719-227-5200) for current conditions.
Monument Lake (El Paso County): This 40 acre lake is located just west of the town of Monument. Any ice should be considered unsafe at this time. For updated conditions, contact the Colorado Springs Area Office (719-227-5200).
Monument Reservoir (Las Animas County): This 40 acre lake is located at the Monument Lake Resort about 30 miles west of Trinidad. The ice is currently unsafe. Day use is from 0800-1600h (posted) and $3/car per day at the self serve station. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact DWM Bob Holder (719-680-1410).
Monument Reservoir (Las Animas County): This 40 acre lake is located at the Monument Lake Resort about 30 miles west of Trinidad. The ice is currently unsafe. Day use is from 0800-1600h (posted) and $3/car per day at the self serve station. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact DWM Bob Holder (719-680-1410).
Mt. Elbert Forebay: This 200 acre reservoir is located just north of Twin Lakes above Highway 82. This is a productive lake that has better than average sized rainbow and cutthroat trout. Anglers also target mackinaw. This reservoir fluctuates considerably and is ice free most of the time, creating open water opportunity in the dead of winter. Ice conditions change daily at this reservoir due to hydropower operations so use extreme caution throughout the winter. Fishing is fair at this time, fishermen are having success with power bait and cocktail shrimp. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the CPW Salida office (719-530-5520).
North Lake SWA: This 100 acre lake is located just east of Monument Reservoir (west of Trinidad). The ice is currently unsafe. There is open water and some shore fishing opportunities. Please note that fishing is by artificial flies and lures only. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact DWM Bob Holder (719-680-1410).
O’Haver Lake: This small (14 acre) lake is located southwest of Poncha Springs on U.S. Forest Service lands. The lake is accessible via County Road 200 (Marshall Pass Road). The road is snowy and muddy due to recent snows and melting with warm weather. A 4-wheel drive vehicle is recommended to reach the lake, but can become impassable with a large amount of snow. Ice is sufficient to fish but use caution near the middle of the lake where a spring may create open water or thin ice. This lake is actively being fished, with a decent success rate, anglers having success with almost any type of bait. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the CPW Salida office (719-530-5520).
Riverside Ponds (Mt. Ouray State Wildlife Area): These two ponds are located northwest of Salida off County Road 160. Warm weather has thawed these two ponds, enabling open water fishing. Low inflow and seepage have caused lake levels to drop throughout the winter, causing some winter kill in the lower lake. The upper lake has seen some increase in water levels over the last week. Both require about a ¼ mile hike, as vehicles are restricted to the parking areas. Fishing is fair at this time. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the CPW Salida Area office (719-530-5520).
Skaguay Reservoir: Located just east of Victor (near the town of Cripple Creek), this 114 acre reservoir is part of the Skaguay State Wildlife Area. The reservoir has approximately 18-24” of ice and is actively being fished. Fishing is slow at this time with mostly 10-12” Rainbows being caught Mealworms, yellow power bait, and salmon eggs are taking trout in 12-20 feet of water. Some pike have been reported being caught near the boat ramp. No vehicles allowed on ice. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the CPW Salida office (719-530-5520).
Trinidad Lake: Located just west of Trinidad, this 1000 acre reservoir is part of Trinidad State Park (entry fee required). The lake has poor ice and large areas of open water. Some shore fishing is available and fishing is fair for rainbows. Please use extreme caution. Anglers should be aware of changing conditions and have the proper equipment and ice safety knowledge. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact Trinidad Lake State Park (719-846-6951) or DWM Bob Holder (719-680-1410).
Twin Lakes Reservoir: This 2000 acre reservoir is located southwest of Leadville, Colorado. Water levels are low in both the upper and lower lakes but both are ice covered and thickness is sufficient to fish, and support most vehicles. There is a large area of open water at the power plant inlet to the lower lake, where anglers are having success catching trout. Use caution with vehicles on the ice later in the day when the ice around the edges can become soft and unsafe for heavy vehicles. Fishing is slow, anglers are most successful using tube jigs tipped with sucker meat and fished on the bottom. Trout anglers are having success with Power Bait and rappellas. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the CPW Salida office (719-530-5520).
Turquoise Reservoir: This 1600 acre reservoir is located just west of Leadville. The lake is ice covered and is actively being fished. Ice is thinner by the dam so use extreme caution in that area. Fishing is fair to good using meal worms, wax worms, power bait, or salmon eggs. Snow fall can make access available only by foot or snowmobile from established parking areas, and parking is limited due to others using the area for outdoor activities. There is a steep hike down to the lake due to the low water level this year. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the CPW Salida office (719-530-5520).
SOUTHWEST REGION (last updated 3/15/2013)
Beaver Creek Reservoir: This 114 acre reservoir is a State Wildlife Area near South Fork. There is vehicle access to the parking lot near the boat ramp. Anglers should expect to catch rainbow trout from 10-16 inches and brown trout and kokanee salmon from 10-14 inches. Due to dam inspections, the water level will remain 10-20’ below the high water mark for the foreseeable future. Anglers should take caution on steep slopes approaching the water. Anglers have been successful for rainbows and kokanee up to 14” near the inlet area and along the dam. Anglers should be extremely cautious on the ice as temperatures continue to warm. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Monte Vista office (719-587-6900).
Big Meadows Reservoir: This 114 acre reservoir is a State Wildlife Area southwest of South Fork. From Highway 160, access along Forest Road 410 (two miles) is only accessible by snowmobile, skis or snowshoes. Anglers should expect to catch rainbow trout and brook trout. There has been very little fishing pressure and a report is not available at this time. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Monte Vista office (719-587-6900).
Big Molas Lake: This 20 acre natural lake is located near Silverton. Ice conditions are good, however, the fishing success has been poor. There are typically a few “holdover” trout from summer stockings and ice fishing is not recommended. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Durango office (970-247-0855).
Blue Mesa Reservoir: This 8,900 acre reservoir is located west of Gunnison. Winter fishing is excellent for brown trout, lake trout and rainbow trout. Due to an over-abundance of small lake trout, harvest of lake trout less than 30 inches is recommended. The bag and possession limit for lake trout is unlimited for fish under 38 inches in length and one lake trout may be kept greater than 38 inches. Cold weather has developed good ice conditions throughout most areas of the reservoir. As of early March, about 30 inches of clear ice is present on much of the reservoir with closer to 18 to 24 inches of ice in areas of the lower Sapinero basin. Fishing has been very good for rainbows and browns with lots of nice rainbows being caught up to 19 inches in length. Anglers have been catching good numbers of smaller lake trout and occasionally kokanee. With the entire reservoir iced over, anglers are also able to target larger lake trout, especially in the Cebolla and Sapinero basins. It is expected that ice cover may persist until about mid-April, but anglers should check on current conditions by contacting Curecanti National Recreation Area at (970-641-2337) or by visiting the National Parks Service web site as spring approaches.
Crawford Reservoir: This 390 acre reservoir is a Colorado State Park located 2 miles south of Crawford. As of February 3 there were about 12 inches of ice on the lake. The lake level is low and access can be difficult due to steep, rocky slopes and long distances to water. Fishing has been fair for small pike, black crappie up to 11 inches and yellow perch with a few fish to 12 inches. With the low water levels the area around the dam offers some of the best habitat in the reservoir. There are still a few tagged pike from population monitoring work done in 2007-2008, please report any tagged fish to the state park office or call (970) 252-6017. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact Crawford State Park (970-921-5721) or the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Montrose office (970-252-6000).
Echo Canyon Reservoir: This 118 acre reservoir is a State Wildlife Area located a few miles south of Pagosa Springs on US 84. Ice conditions are good and the fishing has been excellent for rainbow trout. Echo Canyon Reservoir was stocked with over 10,000 rainbow trout at the end of January. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Durango office (970-247-0855).
Groundhog Reservoir: Ice conditions are very good (18-20 inches) and the fishing has been good for 12-18 inch rainbows. Access is by snowmobile only. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Durango office (970-247-0855).
Island Lake: This 179 acre lake on the Grand Mesa offers good ice fishing opportunity for 10-12 inch rainbow trout, a few wild cutthroat and brookies, and splake. Most splake are less than 14 inches, but there are splake over 10 pounds available. For larger splake, use tube jigs or bucktail jigs to imitate suckers. This lake is popular with anglers with snowmobiles. There is plenty of ice, but during late season, access can be difficult due to deep snow and slushy conditions on the ice surface. As of March 1, there was knee-deep slush in areas, causing snowmobiles to get stuck on the ice. Check with the USFS for road and ice conditions (970-874-6600) or contact the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Montrose office (970-252-6000). Fishing has been good for splake and rainbow trout.
Lemon Reservoir: Located approximately 15 miles northeast of Durango. No reports of angling or ice conditions. The reservoir is very low and we have had cold weather for the past month so there should be adequate ice for fishing. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Durango office (970-247-0855).
Miramonte Reservoir: This 400 acre lake is located 20 miles south of Norwood on the Dan Noble State Wildlife Area. Ice fishing season generally runs from December to March. There is vehicle access to several points around the reservoir. Fishing can be good for larger than average rainbow trout with occasional brown trout being caught as well. As of March 12th, there was about 12 inches of ice on the lake and fishing was fair to slow for good sized rainbow and brown trout. Hot patterns include jigs and wooly buggers tipped with wax worms. There is no limit on illegally introduced smallmouth bass in this reservoir. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the CPW Montrose office (970-252-6000).
Mountain Home Reservoir: This is a State Wildlife Area near Fort Garland. The water level in this reservoir is variable and may be low during the winter. It is accessible by vehicle to the boat ramp. Anglers have reported fair to good fishing for rainbow trout up to 14 inches using powerbait. Anglers have also reported catching northern pike. This was most likely due to an illicit introduction and anglers are encouraged to keep all northern pike they catch as the bag and possession for this species is unlimited statewide. Northern pike can decimate a trout fishery in just a few years. As of March 3, ice conditions were very good but anglers are still advised to use caution as warming weather can cause ice thickness to decrease quickly. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Monte Vista office (719-587-6900).
Pastorius Reservoir: Ice conditions are suitable for ice fishing BUT the dissolved oxygen levels are very low in the lake suggesting a possible fish kill may occur. Fishing not advised at this time. Anglers visiting these low lying area lakes should use extreme caution when venturing out on ice during March. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Durango office (970-247-0855).
Rito Hondo Lake: Access is by snowmobile, skis, or snowshoes. This is a good opportunity for anglers to potentially have the lake to themselves. Anglers can expect to catch brook trout and occasionally cutthroat and rainbow trout. Anglers have reported fair to good fishing for brook trout and rainbow trout, but action has slowed down. Jigs tipped with meal worms and kastmasters work best. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Monte Vista office (719-587-6900).
Road Canyon Reservoir: This 140 acre lake is a State Wildlife Area located near Creede. The reservoir is accessible by vehicle however 4WD vehicles are advised. Anglers can expect to catch rainbow trout, and brook trout from 10 to 18 inches. Anglers have reported good fishing for rainbow trout and brook trout especially in the morning and early afternoon. Anglers should use caution as ice thickness will decrease as temperatures continue to warm and will also be especially variable in thickness around the aerators. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Monte Vista office (719-587-6900).
Sanchez Reservoir: This large reservoir is a State Wildlife Area near San Luis. It is accessible by vehicle to the boat ramp. Due to the low water levels this winter, anglers may find that the fish are more concentrated and easier to catch. Fishing is reported as slow to fair for pike and walleye. Anglers should use extreme caution on the ice, especially around the edges where warmer temperatures and fluctuating water levels have caused thinner ice and open water to develop. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Monte Vista office (719-587-6900).
Smith Reservoir: This is a State Wildlife Area near Fort Garland. Water level is very low and fishing conditions are poor. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Monte Vista office (719-587-6900).
Summit Reservoir: Summit Reservoir is a 350 surface acre lake located about 8 miles NW of Mancos and 20 miles NE of Cortez. Summit is stocked with rainbow trout, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill and catfish. No reports on fishing but the reservoir was recently stocked with rainbow trout. Ice conditions are good.
Taylor Park Reservoir: This is a 2,000 acre reservoir located northeast of Gunnison. As of early March, solid ice is present throughout the reservoir but snow and slush on top of the ice can make access difficult. Anglers can expect to catch lake trout and rainbow trout. During the winter, the road is plowed to the Taylor Park Trading Post. Road work was completed to improve the Taylor River Road in 2012, and those improvements were completed prior to the winter season. The Taylor Park Marina entrance road from the Taylor River Road (FR 742) is no longer maintained through the winter, so it is advised that anglers plan on parking at the Taylor River Road and walk down to the reservoir. It is advised that anglers plan to access the reservoir by snowmobile, snowshoes or skis as snow depths otherwise make access difficult. For updated ice conditions, contact the Taylor Park Trading Post at (970) 641-2555 or the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Gunnison office (970-641-7060).
Totten Reservoir: This small reservoir (204 acres) is located a few miles east of Cortez. The lake sits at a relatively low elevation and the ice is almost gone. No reports on fishing. CPW just stocked 5,000 rainbow trout in the lake; fishing should be good right after ice out. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Durango office (970-247-0855).
Trujillo Meadows Reservoir: This 69 acre lake is a State Wildlife Area located 40 miles west of Antonito. Access is by snowmobile, skis, or snowshoes. Anglers can expect to catch brown trout and rainbow trout. A current fishing report was not available. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Monte Vista office (719-587-6900).
Vallecito Reservoir: This 2,700 acre reservoir is located NE of Durango. Ice conditions are good. Fishing has slowed but some really nice rainbows in the 16-20 inch range have been captured recently. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Durango office (970-247-0855).
Williams Creek Reservoir: Williams Creek Reservoir is fishing well with a number of kokanee, rainbow and cutthroat trout showing up in the catch. The county just closed the road to the reservoir. Anglers will have to walk or snowmobile into the lake about 1 1/2 miles. The Burro Park trail leading to the lake will be packed to accommodate anglers. The ice is good but has a slushy layer on top. Please note that snowmobiles are allowed only as an aid to ice fishing and not for recreational use on the lake. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Durango office (970-247-0855).