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, the 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: On all lakes, be aware of the ice conditions, especially in those waters below 8000’ in elevation. The freeze-melt-freeze conditions in recent weeks can cause ice to be unstable. It is better to be safe than sorry. Check local contacts for up-to-date ice conditions and please read the additional information regarding being safe on the ice.
Ice Fishing Opportunities
| For more Information on fishing conditions in your area, please contact your local CPW Office. |
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NORTHEAST REGION (last updated 1/17/2012)
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 moderate with a better bite occurring in the morning hours. Rainbow trout are averaging 14-18” with an occasional larger fish being seen. Brown trout, cutthroat trout, splake and brook trout are also present. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, please contact the Division of Wildlife Northeast Region Service Center (303-291-7227), Hondo Arms (719-836-7235), or The Jefferson Market (719-839-2389).
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 January 13, the back portions of Senac, Lonetree and Marina coves have 5-6” of ice. There is some open water near the dam. Anglers are having better success fishing early or late in the day. Fishing for trout has been fair, other species slow. For updated boating 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. This early in the season ice conditions can still be unsafe! As of January 13, the lake has 6” of ice. Saugeyes have been caught with jigs tipped with minnows. 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. The lake is closed to boating for the season. Nearly 30,000 trout (10 inches) were stocked this fall. Anglers have been doing well for trout in the marina cove. Ice thickness was about 4-5 inches in the cove. For additional updates contact Boyd Lake State Park (970-669-1739).
Chambers Lake: This 250 acre impoundment is located seven miles east of the top of Cameron Pass on Highway 14. Chambers offers opportunities to catch cutthroat, rainbow, Kokanee salmon and lake trout through the ice. Expect lake trout 16-18” though much larger fish are present as well. Recent reports are of catches of multiple smaller lakers. Ice thickness is over 12”. Anglers have been getting into fish with tube jigs in depths over 40 feet. The inlet bay at shallower depths is usually best for trout. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Fort Collins DOW office (970-472-4300).
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 January 13, the ice is 6-8" thick. The lake has open water in the northern half. For updated boating 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 January 13, the ice is 6-7” thick, but thinner ice near the outlet tower and on the east shoreline. Anglers have been successful catching trout and a few walleye over the past few weeks. For updated boating 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 is entirely frozen with 18" of ice. With a couple seasons without a winterkill, Cowdrey has the potential to produce 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. Anglers have been doing well jigging smaller lures tipped with waxworms. 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 18". 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.) Please refer to your fishing regulation brochure for special regulations. The South lake has been fishing well, with a few fish pushing toward 24 inches. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Lake John Resort (970-723-3226).
Elevenmile Reservoir: This 3400 acre impoundment is located south of US Highway 24 between Wilkerson Pass and the town of Hartsel. Elevenmile Reservoir is currently producing rainbow trout,rainbow x cutthroat hybrid trout, and Snake River rainbow trout in the 14-20” range with 5-6 pound fish showing up regularly. Fishing for brown trout will be slower than for rainbows and cutthroats. Kokanee fishing is fair for anglers that focus in the channel off of north shore. 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 January 13, the lake has over 10 inches of ice. Try wax worms 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 January 13, the lake has over 12 inches of ice. Some nice brown trout have been caught there within the past week. Be careful of the ice near the current area north from the bridge toward the spillway.
Hohnholz Lakes: These three lakes are located west of the Laramie River Road (CR 103) 30 miles north of Highway 14. The eastern lake, Hohnholz #1, has had water now for two years and should be good for fat 12” cutthroat and rainbows. 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 12 inches and solid. 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. Some 12-14 inch trout have been caught through the ice near the inlet. Though the inlet ice was adequate for ice fishing just before the new year, warm weather and strong winds have created dangerous ice conditions again. Please exercise caution when venturing out on the lake. For more information, please see the fishery survey summary. For up-to-date ice conditions, visit the 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. 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. Prior to the new year ice anglers were catching fair numbers of trout and fewer numbers of walleye through the ice. Though 7 inches of ice formed on the reservoir prior to the new year, warm weather and strong winds have created dangerous ice conditions again. Please exercise caution when venturing out on the lake. For more information, 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 around 18 inches. Lake John grows fat rainbow trout, snake river cutthroat trout and cuttbows. Anglers have been catching lots of fish in the 10-16” range with an occasional fish in the 3-5 lb range on a variety of lures and baits. Fish are dispersed throughout the lake so try keying into a specific depth. 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 1. Thousands of 10-inch have been stocked in anticipation of the ice fishing season, but conditions are currently not safe as of January 11. Visit the fishery survey summaries page to learn more about this reservoir.
Red Feather Lakes: Red Feather Lakes is 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 have about 12 inches of ice, and that will change quickly depending on conditions, so take care when going out. Bellaire has been slowing down, but anglers are still for 10-12" fish. Dowdy Lake is 115 acres. Fishing remains steady with rainbows around 10” and occasional larger 'bows and browns. West is 25 acres and fishing is starting to slow down a little there. Parvin is 63 acres. Expect fat browns and decent fishing for rainbows 12-16”. 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 DOW 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 about 18 inches. Fishing has been decent but is starting to slow down. 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 for the benefit of ice anglers. The ice measures 4-5 inches. Anglers on Sandpiper and Mallard have been doing very well catching trout. For additional information contact the St. Vrain State Park entry station (303-678-9402).
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 1/17/2012)
Dillon Reservoir: Ice thickness is more than 12” throughout the reservoir. Kokanee action in the Snake River arm has slowed down as spawning activity has dwindled. However, some fish are still being caught.
Granby Reservoir: Ice is 8-12” thick throughout the reservoir. There is very little snow on the ice this year. Some large pressure ridges have formed on the lake, and caution must be used in attempting to cross them. Fishing has been good for lake trout in 20-90 feet of water, with fish generally found on the bottom.
Green Mountain Reservoir: Ice averages 12” throughout the reservoir. Fishing has been fair and consistent for suspended small lake trout. The bag limit for lake trout is 8 fish and harvest of small lake trout is encouraged. The access gate on the northern end the reservoir has been opened.
Harvey Gap Reservoir: As of January 10th, ice has not yet capped the entire reservoir, and snow cover is almost non-existent. The east inlet area is still open, and open areas exist near the dam. Moving from east to west, ice thickness increases from 7" near Cottonwood camping area to 9" in the west inlet area. Yellow perch have been taken reservoir-wide, and anglers have also had luck with trout (rainbow and brown), as well as northern pike and black crappie. Anglers are having luck fishing near the bottom using a small ice jig tipped with salmon eggs, or meal and wax worms. The 2012 Rifle Gap Ice Fishing Tournament will be held January 21st and 22nd. Contact the Rifle Chamber of Commerce to register and for more info at: 970-625-2085 ext. 4; www.riflechamber.com (Calendar of Events). 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.
Pearl Lake: The lake is iced over at this time. Ice is approximately 15” thick. 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. Fishing has been picking up recently with decent catches being reported. 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: As of January 10th, ice has not yet capped the entire reservoir, and snow cover is almost non-existent. The east inlet area is still open, and open areas exist near the dam. Moving from east to west, ice thickness increases from 7" near Cottonwood camping area to 9" in the west inlet area. Yellow perch have been taken reservoir-wide, and anglers have also had luck with trout (rainbow and brown), as well as northern pike and black crappie. Anglers are having luck fishing near the bottom using a small ice jig tipped with salmon eggs, or meal and wax worms. The 2012 Rifle Gap Ice Fishing Tournament will be held January 21st and 22nd. Contact the Rifle Chamber of Commerce to register and for more info at: 970-625-2085 ext. 4; www.riflechamber.com (Calendar of Events). 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.
Ruedi Reservoir: Ruedi is still predominantly open water, with some ice formation at the inlet. Typically, ice fishing can occur safely toward the end of January – though mild weather conditions this year may push this later into the winter, if at all. Fish that can be caught in Ruedi include lake trout, kokanee, rainbow trout and brown trout. As well, 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: The Farr Pump Plant pumped intermittently over the past month, destabilizing the ice in the area where the pump canal enters Shadow Mountain Reservoir and the channel entering Grand Lake. Ice conditions elsewhere are good. Call Rocky Mountain Outfitters at 970-798-8021 for current conditions.
Stagecoach Reservoir: Fishing has been very good for catchable rainbow trout in the coves and inlet areas. . Trout in the 16” - 18” range are being reported in the catch, but most are averaging 12" to 15". Fishing has been productive off of Keystone Point and in Morrison Cove, with larger trout coming out of Morrison Cove. An assortment of terminal tackle has been producing, such as jigs tipped with powerbait, wax worms, night crawlers, tube jigs, castmasters, solo night crawlers, spoons, etc. Ice jigs and meal worms have been producing well. Good numbers of trout have been caught in the 15’ -20’ depth range. The ice is approximately 10 inches thick, with minimal snow cover. Extreme caution is advised near the inlet of the reservoir as ice cover is minimal. Northern pike fishing has been slow. Harvest of northern pike is strongly encouraged. 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 good for rainbow trout and Snake River cutthroat trout in approximately 8–10’ of water. The Marina cove area, in particular, has been fishing fairly well. The ice is approximately 15” thick with minimal snow cover. An assortment of terminal tackle has been producing, such as jigs tipped with powerbait, wax worms, night crawlers, tube jigs, castmasters, jigging rapalas, etc. 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: The ice on the reservoir is approximately 12” thick and safe for access, but it is always wise to exercise caution. Trout fishing has been excellent. Recommended tackle: wax worms have been very productive. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout and contains wild brook trout and brown trout. Feral kokanee are occasionally caught, 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: Ice cover remains good, though variable conditions do exist, so use caution. In mid-December, 14” rainbow trout were stocked into the lake. The lake is stocked with rainbow and cutthroat trout and wild brook trout also reside in Sylvan Lake. Tackle suggestions: wax or meal worms with colorful small jigs. Also, try the beaver ponds on West Brush Creek between the visitors center and the lake. Updates on ice conditions and angling success are 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: As of January 10, the reservoir is capped with ice, with ice thickness varying across the reservoir, especially near the inlets. Trout in the 12"-16" 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: Ice is 12-15” throughout the lake with little snow. Motorized access is not allowed on the reservoir. Fishing has been fair for small lake trout. As of January 1, the bag limit for lake trout has increased to 8 fish per day, with no more than one fish over 30 inches. Harvest of small lake trout is encouraged.
Wolford Reservoir: The main boat ramp gate is open, allowing motorized access onto the lake. Ice is 15” thick throughout the lake. Fishing has been fair to good for rainbows and some browns in 12-16 feet of water using standard ice fishing jigs tipped with meal worms.
SOUTHEAST REGION (last updated 1/17/2012)
Brush Hollow: This is a 200 acre lake located near Penrose off of Highway 115. The lake is currently 75% ice covered but ice is extremely thin and unsafe. Fishing success is unknown at this time. The boat ramp is open. 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. The lake is totally frozen with 9-10 inches of ice Trout catch near the boat ramp has been fair using ice jigs tipped with meal worms, wax worms, or night crawlers. Kokanee fishing has been good for fish up to 13 inches using Sweedish Pimples fished in less than 10 feet of water on the north side just west of the boat ramp. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the DOW Salida Area Office (719-530-5520).
Cottonwood Lake: This 40 acre reservoir is located west of Buena Vista on U.S. Forest Service land. The lake is completely ice covered with about 10 inches of ice Fishing success has been good for trout using ice jigs tipped with meal worms For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the DOW Salida office (719-530-5520).
De Weese Reservoir: Located near Westcliffe. The ice is 12 inches thick, and fishing is good with trout averaging 12 inches but some in the 14 to 16 inch range. Swedish pimples, kastmasters, and assorted plastic jigs tipped with meal worms, wax worms, and night crawlers are good bets. For current conditions, contact the Pueblo Area Office (719-561-5300).
Frantz Lake: This lake has 8-10 inches of ice in most areas. Use caution however, particularly in the inlet area where ice may be thin. Warm weather can create unsafe ice conditions on a daily basis. Fishing success has been good using ice jigs tipped with salmon eggs. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the DOW 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 completely frozen and thickness is good. Fishing success is unknown. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the DOW Salida office (719-530-5520).
Hugo SWA: Ice is unsafe.
Karval Reservoir: Ice is unsafe.
Kinney Lake: Ice is unsafe.
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. Fishing for trout and Kokanee has been very good. The ice is approximately 14 inches thick and anglers are doing well with fireballs, wax worms, and night crawlers. Swedish pimple jigging spoons, Ratso’s, Rat Finkee’s, and bucktail jigs are all producing fish. 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. Lake is capped with ice, with an average thickness of 6-8 inches measured near the west shoreline. Caution is advised with warming temperatures. No report on angler success. 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. Contact the Colorado Springs 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. Ice should be considered unsafe Ice fishing is not recommended. Contact the Colorado Springs office (719-227-5200) for current conditions.
Monument Reservoir (Las Animas County) (last updated 1/24/2012): This 40 acre lake is located at the Monument Lake Resort about 30 miles west of Trinidad. The ice is approximately 2-3” and has broken apart leaving some open water around the shore. The surface is spider webbed with cracks and open water across the entire lake. The ice is UNSAFE. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact DWM Bob Holder (719-680-1410).
Mt. Elbert Forebay: ThThis 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. It is ice free at the time of this report. Fishing for lake trout has been good using small tube jigs tipped with sucker meat and fished on the bottom. Rainbow trout catch has been good using Pistol Pete’s. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the DOW Salida office (719-530-5520).
North Lake SWA (last updated 1/24/2012): This 100 acre lake is located just east of Monument Reservoir (west of Trinidad). The ice is approximately 2-3” and has broken apart leaving some open water around the shore. The surface is spider webbed with cracks and open water across the entire lake. The ice is UNSAFE. 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 snow packed due to recent snows, and 4-wheel drive vehicles with good tires or chains or snowmobiles are needed to reach the lake. Ice is 12-14 inches thick but use caution near the middle of the lake where a spring has created open water or thin ice. Fishing has been good using ice jogs baited with meal and/or wax worms or salmon eggs. The lake will be open to ice fishing until April 1 but closed thereafter through the summer and fall for USFS campground re-construction. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the DOW Salida office (719-530-5520).
Riverside Ponds (Mt. Ouray State Wildlife Area): These two ponds are located northwest of Salida off County Road 160. These lakes have 8-10 inches of ice, but use extreme caution in the inlet area where ice may be thin. Warm weather can create unsafe ice conditions on a daily basis. Both require about a ¼ mile hike, as vehicles are restricted to the parking areas. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the DOW 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 is 100% ice covered. The ice thickness is between 12 and 18 inches. Fishing for rainbow trout with chartreuse jigs tipped with mill worms or power bait has been good. No vehicles allowed on ice. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the DOW 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 ice is approximately 6 inches thick near the dam and south shore and deteriorates to the west. Fishing has been fair. High temperatures can deteriorate ice conditions, and 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).
Twin Lakes and Turquoise Reservoirs: These are larger reservoirs (Twin – 2000 acres, Turquoise – 1600 acres) located on U.S. Forest Service lands west of Highway 24 near Leadville. Twin – The upper lake is completely ice covered with 12-14 inches of ice. The lower lake iced over late this year but thickness is unknown. Driving vehicles onto the lower lake is not recommended. There is almost always open water near dam, power plant and channels. Proceed with caution. Mackinaw catch has been very good with several reports of fish taken up to 38 inches. Anglers are most successful using tube jigs tipped with sucker meat and fished on the bottom. Trout action has also been very good with typical baits off the south shore of the upper lake. Turquoise – The lake is completely iced over but thickness, fishing conditions and vehicle access are unknown at this time Snow fall can make access available only by foot or snowmobile from established parking areas. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the DOW Salida office (719-530-5520).
SOUTHWEST REGION (last updated 1/17/2012)
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 have been successful for rainbows and kokanee up to 14” near the inlet area. 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 typically accessed by snowmobile, skis or snowshoes. The logging operations that have kept the road open and plowed are winding down. Consequently, vehicle access will become limited over the next few weeks. Anglers have reported very good action using various types of jigs tipped with meal worms and earthworms. 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. season Ice conditions are good, however, the fishing success has been poor. There are typically few “holdover” trout from summer stockings. 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 and lake trout and good for rainbow trout. Browns caught through the ice average 16 inches in length but occasionally reach 25 inches. Rainbows up to 20 inches are commonly landed. Trophy lake trout can also be found over 40 inches in length and up to about 50 pounds in weight. Kokanee and yellow perch can also be caught through the ice but are often tougher to target. 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, only one of which may be greater than 38 inches in length. Ice has been slow to form with Cebolla and Sapinero Basins still ice free as of early January. Ice has formed on the Iola basin, but ice thickness is variable. Anglers may check on current conditions by contacting Curecanti National Recreation Area at (970-641-2337) or visit the National Parks Service.
Crawford Reservoir: This 390 acre reservoir is a Colorado State Park located 2 miles south of Crawford. As of January 10th there was about 8-10 inches of ice on the lake. Fishing has been good for medium sized black crappie and smaller yellow perch around the dam. Pike fishermen have done well with tip ups and dead suckers around the lake. 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). In early December there was still open water and the lake was still in the process of freezing.
Echo Canyon Reservoir: This 118 acre reservoir is a State Wildlife Area located a few miles south of Pagosa Springs on US 84. Echo Lake is typically a good lake for rainbow trout and large yellow perch. Ice conditions are good and anglers are reporting fair success for trout and perch on wax worm tipped jigs. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Durango office (970-247-0855).
Groundhog Reservoir: Ice conditions are excellent with 7-8 inches of ice. Anglers report catching their limits of 10-13 inch rainbow trout with jigs and wax worms. With the lake level at historic lows, Groundhog Reservoir may provide very good fishing this year. Access to Groundhog is typically by snowmobile (20 miles), but the road was plowed up to the last 5 miles. Right now (mid-Jan) you can drive to the lake but that will change if we get a snowstorm. 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 good-sized splake as well (8-28 inches). This lake is popular with anglers with snowmobiles. Check with the USFS for road and ice conditions (970-874-6600) or contact the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Montrose office (970-252-6000). There is currently about 15 to 20 inches of ice on the lake and fishing has been good for splake and rainbow trout.
Lemon Reservoir: Located approximately 15 miles northeast of Durango. There is still open water due to unusually warm weather. Ice conditions around shorelines are marginal at best. No reports of angling. 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. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the DOW Montrose office (970-252-6000). As of January 12th there was about 7-9 inches of ice on the lake and fishing was steady for good sized rainbow trout. Hot patterns included Shrimpo’s and feather jigs tipped with wax worms.
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 16 inches. 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. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Monte Vista office (719-587-6900).
Pastorius Reservoir: Fishing has been slow for 10-12 inch rainbow trout. Ice conditions are marginal but should improve with the cold weather we are experiencing. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Durango office (970-247-0855).
Rito Hondo Lake: This 40 acre lake is a State Wildlife Area located west of Creede. Access is by snowmobile, skis, or snowshoes. Anglers can expect to catch brook trout and occasionally cutthroat and rainbow trout. Anglers have reported fair to good fishing for brook trout up to 16 inches. 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, brook trout and splake from 10 to 18 inches. Anglers have reported good fishing with an occasional rainbow trout reaching 18 inches. This reservoir is completely frozen and fishable however, anglers should use caution as ice thickness is variable especially 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. The reservoir is completely frozen over however anglers should use caution as ice conditions are variable. The water level is currently 15-20 feet below the high water mark. 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. The reservoir is completely frozen and anglers have reported catching rainbow trout up to 16 inches. 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, but the lake is ice covered.
Taylor Park Reservoir: This is a 2,000 acre reservoir located northeast of Gunnison. It freezes early and as of mid January has about 18 inches of ice. Anglers can expect to catch lake trout and rainbow trout. During the winter, the road is plowed to the Taylor Park Trading Post. The road to the Taylor Park Marina from the Taylor River Road (FR 742) is no longer maintained through the winter. It is advised that ice fishermen 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) located east of Cortez typically has variable ice conditions. There is little to no ice on the lake. Totten is known for larger perch, bluegill, and some northern pike. 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. 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. Approximately 30% of the reservoir is still ice free. Poor ice conditions around margins of lake. 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 covered with about 9 inches of ice. Williams Creek is generally good for brook, rainbow and cuttbow trout and the occasional kokanee salmon on jigs baited with mealworms, but recent reports suggest “hot” and “cold” fishing success. 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).