If you’re looking for the best places to go bass fishing in Colorado, congratulations! You’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re a veteran angler or just starting on your journey, picking the right spot can make all the difference – and that’s why we’ve rounded up some of Colorado’s most ideal bass fishing spots here. From setting up camp along peaceful streams near Denver to discovering hidden gems deeper down within the state, there are plenty of options for exploring Colorado’s stunning outdoor landscape. Read on for our top picks and prepare for an unforgettable experience full of sunsets, fresh air, and hopefully lots of action!
Best Bass Fishing Locations in Colorado
Colorado is known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. Among these, bass fishing holds a special place for many anglers. Let’s explore some of Colorado’s best bass fishing locations, their dimensions, specific historical information, and additional details, along with a list of fish species commonly found in each location.
1. Chatfield Reservoir
Chatfield Reservoir is a popular bass fishing destination in Littleton, Colorado, within Chatfield State Park. With a surface area of 1,423 acres and a maximum depth of 47 feet, this reservoir offers plenty of space for anglers to catch various fish species. The reservoir was constructed in 1975 as part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ flood control project. The park surrounding the reservoir features multiple fishing access points, boat ramps, and amenities such as picnic areas, campgrounds, and hiking trails.
Fish species commonly found in Chatfield Reservoir:
- Largemouth Bass - Smallmouth Bass - Spotted Bass - Walleye - Rainbow Trout - Brown Trout
2. Pueblo Reservoir
Pueblo Reservoir is a large reservoir situated in Pueblo State Park, Colorado. Covering an area of 4,600 acres and reaching depths of up to 155 feet, it is one of the largest bodies of water in the state. The reservoir was created in 1975 by the Pueblo Dam, built for flood control, irrigation, and water storage. Pueblo Reservoir is known for its warm water temperatures, making it an ideal habitat for bass and other warm-water fish species. The surrounding park offers numerous fishing access points, boat ramps, marinas, picnic areas, and camping facilities.
Fish species commonly found in Pueblo Reservoir:
- Largemouth Bass - Smallmouth Bass - Spotted Bass - Walleye - Wiper - Channel Catfish
3. Quincy Reservoir
In Aurora, Colorado, Quincy Reservoir is a smaller body of water with a surface area of 160 acres and a maximum depth of around 28 feet. This reservoir is a popular spot for anglers due to its abundant aquatic vegetation, which provides excellent habitat for bass and other fish species. Quincy Reservoir was constructed in 1972 for water storage and flood control purposes. The park surrounding the reservoir has a fishing pier, shoreline access, and boat ramps for non-motorized boats. Colorado Parks and Wildlife also designated Quincy Reservoir as a Trophy Bass Fishery.
Fish species commonly found in Quincy Reservoir:
- Largemouth Bass - Smallmouth Bass - Yellow Perch - Black Crappie - Bluegill
4. Horsetooth Reservoir
Horsetooth Reservoir is a picturesque body of water nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains near Fort Collins, Colorado. With a surface area of 1,900 acres and a maximum depth of 180 feet, this reservoir offers ample opportunities for anglers to catch various fish species. The reservoir was created in 1949 by constructing Horsetooth Dam as part of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project. Anglers can access the reservoir via multiple boat ramps and shoreline fishing spots available throughout the park. The surrounding area also features campgrounds, picnic areas, and hiking and mountain biking trails.
Fish species commonly found in Horsetooth Reservoir:
- Smallmouth Bass - Largemouth Bass - Walleye - Rainbow Trout - Brown Trout - Yellow Perch
5. Carter Lake
Carter Lake is a scenic reservoir located in Loveland, Colorado. It covers an area of 1,100 acres and reaches a maximum depth of 180 feet. This reservoir is known for its clear waters and healthy fish populations, making it a favorite spot among bass anglers. Carter Lake was created by the construction of Carter Lake Dam in 1950 as part of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project. The lake offers fishing access via boat ramps and shoreline fishing spots. The surrounding park provides amenities such as campgrounds, picnic areas, and hiking trails, ensuring a great outdoor experience for visitors.
Fish species commonly found in Carter Lake:
- Smallmouth Bass - Largemouth Bass - Walleye - Rainbow Trout - Brown Trout - Kokanee Salmon
6. Aurora Reservoir
Aurora Reservoir is a beautiful body of water located in Aurora, Colorado, covering an area of 800 acres with a maximum depth of about 50 feet. This reservoir is known for its pristine water quality and excellent fishing opportunities. Constructed in 1988, the reservoir serves as a critical water storage facility for Aurora. The park surrounding the reservoir features multiple fishing access points, a fishing pier, boat ramps for non-motorized boats, picnic areas, and a swim beach.
Fish species commonly found in Aurora Reservoir:
- Largemouth Bass - Smallmouth Bass - Walleye - Wiper - Yellow Perch - Rainbow Trout
7. Boyd Lake
Boyd Lake is a popular fishing destination within Boyd Lake State Park in Loveland, Colorado. The lake has a surface area of 1,700 acres and a maximum depth of 45 feet. The reservoir was created in 1952 by constructing Boyd Lake Dam for irrigation purposes. The state park offers various recreational activities, including fishing, boating, camping, and hiking. Anglers can access the lake via multiple boat ramps and shoreline fishing spots.
Fish species commonly found in Boyd Lake:
- Largemouth Bass - Smallmouth Bass - Walleye - White Bass - Crappie - Bluegill
8. Blue Mesa Reservoir
Blue Mesa Reservoir, located in Gunnison County, Colorado, is the state’s largest body of water, with a surface area of 9,180 acres and a maximum depth of 340 feet. This reservoir was created in 1965 by the construction of Blue Mesa Dam as part of the Colorado River Storage Project. Known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery, Blue Mesa Reservoir attracts anglers from across the country. The surrounding Curecanti National Recreation Area offers numerous fishing access points, boat ramps, campgrounds, and hiking trails.
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Fish species commonly found in Blue Mesa Reservoir:
- Smallmouth Bass - Largemouth Bass - Kokanee Salmon - Lake Trout - Rainbow Trout - Brown Trout
9. McPhee Reservoir
McPhee Reservoir is a remote and scenic fishing destination in Montezuma County, Colorado. With a surface area of 4,470 acres and a maximum depth of 270 feet, this reservoir is the second-largest body of water in the state. McPhee Reservoir was created in 1985 by the construction of McPhee Dam for irrigation and water storage purposes. The surrounding McPhee Recreation Area offers fishing access via boat ramps, shoreline fishing spots, campgrounds, and picnic areas.
Fish species commonly found in McPhee Reservoir:
- Smallmouth Bass - Largemouth Bass - Walleye - Northern Pike - Rainbow Trout - Yellow Perch
10. Rifle Gap Reservoir
Rifle Gap Reservoir is a serene fishing location in Rifle Gap State Park near Rifle, Colorado. The reservoir covers an area of 350 acres and has a maximum depth of 60 feet. Rifle Gap Reservoir was created in 1968 by constructing Rifle Gap Dam for irrigation and water storage. The state park provides various recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, swimming, camping, and hiking. Anglers can access the reservoir via boat ramps and shoreline fishing spots.
Fish species commonly found in Rifle Gap Reservoir:
- Largemouth Bass - Smallmouth Bass - Walleye - Rainbow Trout - Brown Trout - Yellow Perch
Colorado is known for its incredible bass fishing offerings. From Spinney Mountain to The Big Thompson River, there is something for every angler! Each of these locations has its own unique qualities that make it stand out from the rest.
Between natural creeks and reservoirs, you’ll be able to find an endless supply of beauty and fish! Plus, with so many activities available in the area, like hiking or exploring historic sites, you will have no problem making a trip to Colorado more enjoyable than ever. Read our other articles to learn even more about what you can experience on your next fishing adventure!