Colorado is home to some of the best bass fishing lakes in the United States. With various fish species and miles of shoreline, there are plenty of places to cast a line and reel in a big catch.
From the clear waters of Echo Canyon Reservoir to the gold medal waters of the Arkansas River, there is a great spot for every angler.
Colorado has plenty of options if you’re looking to catch largemouth or smallmouth bass. Horsetooth Reservoir near Fort Collins and Quincy Reservoir in the Denver metro area are known for their bass fishing.
If you prefer trout fishing, the North Platte River and Spinney Mountain Reservoir are great places to cast your line.
And for those who enjoy ice fishing, winter brings opportunities to catch kokanee salmon, brown trout, and northern pike in places like Pueblo Reservoir and Rifle Gap Reservoir. With so many options, the question is: where will you go for your next fishing trip?
19 Best Bass Fishing Lakes & Rivers in Colorado
1. Pueblo Reservoir
Pueblo Reservoir is the top choice for bass fishing in Colorado. This man-made lake is located just south of Colorado Springs and offers a variety of fish species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass.
The lake has a surface area of 4,500 acres and a maximum depth of 100 feet. The best time to fish for bass in Pueblo Reservoir is early summer, and live bait or artificial lures like senkos and spinnerbaits work well.
Top Fishing Spots
- North Shore Marina: is located on the reservoir’s north shore and offers easy water access.
- South Shore Marina: is located on the south shore of the reservoir and offers a variety of amenities, including boat rentals, a bait shop, and a restaurant.
- Rock Canyon Marina: is located on the reservoir’s west side and offers easy access to some of the best bass fishing spots on the lake. It also offers boat rentals and a bait shop.
- Pueblo State Park: Pueblo State Park is a great place to fish for bass on Pueblo Reservoir. The park offers several boat ramps, fishing piers, and a variety of other amenities.
- Inlet Cove Marina: is located on the east side of the reservoir and offers easy access to some of the best bass fishing spots on the lake. It also offers boat rentals and a bait shop.
2. Horsetooth Reservoir
Horsetooth Reservoir is located in Fort Collins and is a popular spot for bass fishing. The lake covers over 6 miles and has a maximum depth of 200 feet.
Smallmouth and largemouth bass can be found in the lake, and the best time to fish is in the early morning or late afternoon. Artificial lures like square bill or Texas rig work well in shallow water.
Top Fishing Spots
- South Bay: This area has a lot of underwater structures, including rock piles and drop-offs, which can be great for bass fishing.
- Dixon Cove: This area is known for having a lot of vegetation, which can provide cover for bass and attract prey to feed on.
- Inlet Bay: This area has a lot of submerged logs and other debris, which can provide cover for bass and attract prey for them to feed on.
- Satanka Cove: This area is known for having a lot of rocky areas and drop-offs, which can be great for bass fishing.
- Sunrise Cove: This area is shallow, which can be great for sight fishing for bass.
3. St. Vrain State Park
St. Vrain State Park is a popular destination for bass fishing in Colorado. The park features several bodies of water, including two ponds and several reservoirs, home to various fish species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass.
Visitors must have a valid Colorado fishing license to fish at St. Vrain State Park, which can be purchased online or at local retailers. Fishing regulations and limits are posted at the park and should be followed to ensure the sustainability of the fish populations.
Anglers can fish from the shore or a boat, but gas-powered motors are not allowed on the park’s bodies of water. There are several fishing piers and boat ramps throughout the park for easy access to the water.
4. Chatfield Reservoir
Chatfield Reservoir is located just south of Denver and is known for its variety of fish species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass.
The lake covers over 1,400 acres and has a maximum depth of 47 feet. The best time to fish for bass in Chatfield Reservoir is early morning or late afternoon. Artificial lures like senkos or spinnerbaits work well in deeper water.
Top Fishing Spots
- Plum Creek Cove: This cove is located on the reservoir’s west side and is known for its shallow waters and rocky bottom, making it an ideal spot for bass fishing.
- Kingfisher Point: This point is located on the south side of the reservoir and is known for its rocky shoreline and deep waters, which provide suitable habitat for bass.
- Catfish Flats: is located on the east side of the reservoir and is known for its large weed beds and drop-offs, which attract bass.
- North Boat Ramp: is located on the north side of the reservoir and is known for its submerged structures and rocky shoreline, which provide good cover for bass.
5. Blue Mesa Reservoir
Blue Mesa Reservoir is located in the Gunnison National Forest and is Colorado’s largest body of water. The lake covers over 9,000 acres and has a maximum depth of 325 feet.
The lake is known for its various fish species, including rainbow and brown trout, kokanee salmon, and northern pike.
Smallmouth and largemouth bass can also be found in the lake, and the best time to fish for bass is in the early spring or late fall. Artificial lures like spinnerbaits or Texas rigs work well in deeper water.
Top Fishing Spots
- Iola Basin: On the west end of the reservoir, and is known for its excellent smallmouth bass fishing.
- Elk Creek: On the north end of the reservoir, and is known for largemouth bass.
- Cebolla Creek: This area is located on the east end of the reservoir and is known for its excellent smallmouth bass fishing.
- Sapinero Creek: Located on the south end of the reservoir, and is known for its excellent largemouth bass fishing.
- Lake Fork Arm: On the west end of the reservoir, and is known for its excellent smallmouth bass fishing.
6. Cherry Creek Reservoir
Cherry Creek Reservoir, located in the Denver metro area, is a popular spot for bass fishing. Large and smallmouth bass can be found here, along with various other fish species.
The reservoir is also home to a state park, making it a great place to spend a day on the water.
Top Fishing Spots
- The Dam: The area near the dam is a popular spot for bass fishing at Cherry Creek Reservoir. The deep water and structure around the dam provide a good habitat for bass.
- The Narrows: The Narrows is another popular spot for bass fishing at Cherry Creek Reservoir. This area is known for its rocky shoreline and weed beds, which provide good cover for bass.
- The Marina: The marina is an excellent spot for fishing for largemouth bass. The area around the marina is shallow and weedy, where large bass thrive.
- The Inlet: The inlet is a good spot for fishing for smallmouth bass. The rocky shoreline and fast-moving water provide suitable habitat for smallmouth bass.
7. McPhee Reservoir
Located in southwestern Colorado, McPhee Reservoir is a large body of water with plenty of places to fish.
Large and smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, and other game fish can be found here. The reservoir also offers easy access with several boat ramps.
Top Fishing Spots
- The coves and inlets around the reservoir, where bass are known to hide and feed on baitfish.
- The rocky shorelines, where bass can often lurk near underwater structures.
- The deeper waters near the dam, where bass can be found feeding on schools of baitfish.
- The areas around submerged trees and brush piles provide excellent cover for bass.
8. Navajo Reservoir
Navajo Reservoir, located in the San Juan Mountains, is a favorite bass lake for many anglers.
The reservoir is home to both largemouth bass and smallmouth bass, along with a variety of other fish species. The clear waters and miles of shoreline make it a great place to spend a day on the water.
Top Fishing Spots
- Pine River Arm: This area is known for its shallow water and abundant cover, including weed beds, submerged logs, and fallen trees.
- Piedra Arm: The Piedra Arm is another excellent place to find largemouth bass. This area is known for its rocky shoreline and deep water, which provides plenty of cover for bass.
- San Juan River Arm: The San Juan River Arm is a popular spot for smallmouth bass. This area has clear water and rocky bottom, providing ideal smallmouth bass habitat.
- The Narrows: The Narrows is a narrow channel that connects the Pine River and Piedra Arms. This area is known for its deep water and abundant cover, including submerged rocks and fallen trees, which makes it an excellent spot for bass fishing.
- Francis Canyon: Francis Canyon is a deep canyon on the southern end of Navajo Reservoir. This area is known for its clear water and rocky bottom, providing excellent smallmouth bass habitat.
9. Quincy Reservoir
Quincy Reservoir, located in the Denver metro area, is another popular spot for bass fishing.
Large and smallmouth bass can be found here, along with various other fish species. The north side of the reservoir is an excellent spot for shore fishing during daylight hours.
Top Fishing Spots
- West Cove: is located on the reservoir’s west side and provides good cover and structure for bass to hide and ambush prey.
- South Cove: is located on the south side of the reservoir and is known for its shallow water and weed beds, which provide good cover for bass.
- The Dam: The dam area is a popular spot for bass fishing at Quincy Reservoir. The deep water and structure around the dam provide good habitat for bass.
- Drop-offs: Quincy Reservoir has several drop-offs that provide good structure for bass to hide and ambush prey. Look for areas where the water depth drops off quickly.
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10. Echo Canyon Reservoir
Echo Canyon Reservoir, located in the eastern part of the state, is a great spot for bass fishing. Largemouth bass and smallmouth bass can be found here, along with various other fish species. The reservoir also offers easy access with several boat ramps.
Top Fishing Spots
- The northern end of the reservoir near the inlet. This area is known for its rocky structure and drop-offs, which provide ideal habitat for bass.
- The southern end of the reservoir near the dam. This area has deeper water and underwater structures, which can attract larger bass.
- The coves and bays along the eastern shoreline. These areas can provide shelter and food for bass, especially during low-light conditions.
- The western shoreline has rocky structure and submerged trees that can attract bass.
11. Aurora Reservoir
Located just 30 minutes from downtown Denver, Aurora Reservoir is a popular destination for anglers. The lake covers 800 acres and has a maximum depth of 70 feet, making it an ideal spot for bass fishing. The reservoir is also home to rainbow trout, brown trout, and yellow perch.
12. Carter Lake
Carter Lake, located in Loveland, is a beautiful reservoir with great bass fishing opportunities. The lake covers 1,100 acres and has a maximum depth of 180 feet.
In addition to bass, the lake is home to rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, and smallmouth bass.
Top Fishing Spots
- North Shore: This area is known for its rocky shorelines, drop-offs, and underwater structure, making it an ideal spot for bass fishing.
- South Shore: The southern shoreline of Carter Lake is a great spot for catching smallmouth bass, especially in the early morning and late evening.
- Dam Area: The area around the dam is another popular spot for bass fishing, with deep water and plenty of structure for the fish to hide.
- Inlet Bay: The inlet bay is a shallow area with plenty of vegetation, making it a prime spot for largemouth bass.
- Lone Tree Cove: This cove is known for its clear water and rocky shoreline, making it an excellent spot for sight fishing.
13. Colorado River
The Colorado River in Colorado is known for its excellent bass fishing opportunities. The river is home to smallmouth and largemouth bass, found in the river’s deeper pools and runs.
The best time to fish for bass on the Colorado River is during the summer when the water temperatures are warmer and the fish are more active.
Some popular spots for bass fishing on the Colorado River in Colorado include the stretch of river between Dotsero and Glenwood Springs, known for its large smallmouth bass populations.
The section of the river between Kremmling and Gore Canyon is also a popular spot for bass fishing, especially for those looking to catch larger fish.
14. Lon Hagler Reservoir
Lon Hagler Reservoir is a beautiful lake in Larimer County, Colorado. It covers an area of around 97 acres and is a popular spot for bass fishing.
The reservoir is located at an elevation of around 5,420 feet and is surrounded by scenic views of the Rocky Mountains.
Bass fishing is a popular activity at Lon Hagler Reservoir, as it is home to a healthy largemouth bass population. Anglers can expect to catch bass ranging in size from small to large, with some weighing up to 5 pounds or more.
The best time to fish for bass at Lon Hagler Reservoir is spring and fall when the water temperatures are cooler and the fish are more active.
Top Fishing Spots
- The Dam: The area around the dam is a great spot to fish for bass, especially during the spring and fall when the water temperatures are cooler.
- The Weed Beds: The weed beds on Lon Hagler Reservoir are another great spot to fish for bass. The weed beds cover the fish and attract baitfish, making them a prime spot for bass to feed. Anglers can fish the edges of the weed beds with soft plastic baits or topwater lures to catch bass.
- The Drop-Offs: The drop-offs on Lon Hagler Reservoir are another great spot to target bass. The drop-offs provide a transition zone between shallow and deep water, which is a prime area for bass to feed. To catch bass, anglers can fish the drop-offs with jigs, crankbaits, or soft plastic baits.
- The Points: The points on Lon Hagler Reservoir are another great spot to target bass. The points provide a natural ambush point for bass, as they can wait for baitfish to swim by before striking.
15. Arkansas River
The Arkansas River is one of Colorado’s most popular rivers for trout fishing. However, it is also an excellent spot for bass fishing.
The river is home to both smallmouth and largemouth bass, providing an excellent opportunity for anglers to catch some of the biggest bass in the state.
The best time to fish for bass in the Arkansas River is early morning or late afternoon.
During these times, the water temperature is cooler, and the bass tend to be more active. Anglers can use various techniques, including fishing with live bait or artificial lures, to catch bass in the river.
Top Fishing Spots
- Pueblo Reservoir: This reservoir is located just outside of Pueblo, Colorado, and is known for its excellent bass fishing. The reservoir covers over 4,600 acres and has a maximum depth of 100 feet.
- Lake Pueblo State Park: This state park is located on the shores of Pueblo Reservoir and offers excellent bass fishing opportunities. The park has several boat ramps and fishing piers, making it easy to access the water.
- Canon City: The stretch of the Arkansas River that runs through Canon City is known for its excellent bass fishing. The river is easily accessible from several public access points in town.
- Royal Gorge: The Royal Gorge section of the Arkansas River is known for its scenic beauty and excellent fishing. The river runs through a deep canyon, and the fishing can be challenging, but the rewards are worth it.
- Browns Canyon: This section of the Arkansas River is known for its excellent whitewater rafting and offers some great bass fishing opportunities. The river runs through a scenic canyon, and the fishing can be excellent in the quieter stretches of water.
16. Yampa River
The Yampa River is another excellent spot for bass fishing in Colorado. The river is located in the northwestern part of the state and is known for its clear waters and miles of shoreline.
The river is home to smallmouth and largemouth bass, providing anglers with an excellent opportunity to catch some of the biggest bass in the state.
Early summer is the best time to fish for bass in the Yampa River. The water temperature is warmer during this time, and the bass is more active.
Anglers can use various techniques, including fishing with live bait or artificial lures, to catch bass in the river.
Top Fishing Spots
- Stagecoach Reservoir: This reservoir is located near Steamboat Springs and is known for its large smallmouth bass population.
- Yampa River State Park: This park is located near Hayden and offers several miles of prime bass fishing waters, including the Tailwater and Chuck Lewis sections.
- Steamboat Lake: This lake is located in the Routt National Forest and is known for its largemouth bass population.
- Elkhead Reservoir: This reservoir is located near Craig and is known for its large population of smallmouth bass.
- Sarvis Creek: This creek is located near Yampa and offers excellent fly fishing for smallmouth bass.
7. Brush Hollow Reservoir
Brush Hollow Reservoir is a popular fishing destination located in southern Colorado, near the city of Pueblo. The reservoir covers an area of approximately 1,400 acres and is home to various fish species, including bass, trout, walleye, crappie, and catfish.
Bass fishing is prevalent at Brush Hollow Reservoir, as the lake has a healthy population of largemouth and smallmouth bass. Anglers can fish for bass from the shore or a boat, and several boat ramps are located around the lake for easy access.
Top Fishing Spots
- The Dam: The dam at Brush Hollow Reservoir is a popular spot for bass fishing, providing plenty of fish cover. Anglers can fish from the shore or a boat.
- The Inlet: The inlet at Brush Hollow Reservoir is another great spot for bass fishing, particularly in the spring and fall when the water is cooler. Anglers can fish from the shore or a boat.
- The Islands: Brush Hollow Reservoir has several small islands that are great for bass fishing. Anglers can fish from a boat or kayak around the islands.
- The Weed Beds: Brush Hollow Reservoir has several weed beds that provide cover and food for bass.
18. McKay Lake
McKay Lake is a beautiful lake located in Broomfield, Colorado. It is surrounded by stunning scenery, including the Rocky Mountains and the Flatirons. The lake is relatively small, covering only about 40 acres, but it is well-known for its excellent bass fishing.
The water in McKay Lake is typically a deep blue-green color, with shades of turquoise and teal.
As for bass fishing, McKay Lake is a popular spot for anglers looking to catch largemouth bass. The lake is stocked regularly, and the bass tend to be larger.
Top Fishing Spots
- The fishing pier: This area provides easy access to deeper water where the bass tend to congregate. It’s also a great spot for families or groups.
- The area near the dam: This section of the lake tends to hold larger bass, and anglers can often catch them by casting along the rocky shoreline.
- The cove on the southeast side of the lake: This area has a lot of vegetation, which provides cover for the bass and makes it a good spot to fish with topwater lures or weedless baits.
- The area around the island: This lake section can be a good spot for bass fishing, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.
- The channel between the two sections of the lake: This area can be a good spot for bass fishing, especially during the summer months when the water is warmer.
- The western shoreline: This area can be a good spot for bass fishing, particularly in the spring when the bass are spawning.
19. John Martin Reservoir
John Martin Reservoir is a large body of water located in southeastern Colorado, near the town of Hasty. It is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, particularly those interested in bass fishing.
The reservoir is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, walleye, catfish, and more.
Bass fishing at John Martin Reservoir is popular, particularly during summer when the water is warm, and the fish are active. Anglers can fish from the shore or from a boat, and several boat ramps and fishing piers are located around the reservoir.
Largemouth bass are the most commonly targeted species at John Martin Reservoir, and anglers can expect to catch fish in the 2-4 pound range, with some larger fish occasionally caught as well.
Top Fishing Spots
- The Dam: The dam is a popular spot for bass fishing, particularly in the spring and fall when the fish are more active. Anglers can fish from the shore or from a boat, and can target both largemouth and smallmouth bass.
- The North Shore: The reservoir’s north shore is another great spot for bass fishing, particularly in the summer when the water is warmer. Anglers can fish from the shore or from a boat, and can use a variety of techniques to target largemouth bass.
- The South Shore: The reservoir’s south shore is another popular spot for bass fishing.
- The Cove: The cove is a secluded reservoir known for producing some of the largest bass in the area.
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Colorado Bass Fishing Regulations and Licensing
Colorado has strict regulations when it comes to bass fishing. Anglers must adhere to these regulations to ensure the sustainability of the fish population.
Here are some of the regulations and licensing requirements for bass fishing in Colorado:
Regulations
- Anglers can only keep a maximum of 5 bass per day, with a minimum size limit of 15 inches for largemouth bass and 12 inches for smallmouth bass.
- Catch-and-release is encouraged for all bass species to preserve the fish population.
- Fishing for bass is prohibited during the spawning season, typically from mid-April to late May.
- Anglers must have a valid Colorado fishing license and follow all state fishing regulations.
Licensing
To fish for bass in Colorado, anglers must have a valid Colorado fishing license. Licenses can be purchased online through the Colorado Parks and Wildlife or at various retail locations throughout the state. Prices vary depending on the type of license and the duration of the license.
Anglers can choose from the following license options:
- Annual fishing license
- 5-day fishing license
- 1-day fishing license
- Youth fishing license (ages 16 and under)
Best Time To Fish
The best time to fish for bass in Colorado is early morning or late afternoon when the water temperature is cooler.
Shallow water near the shore is a great spot to catch bass, especially during the early summer months.
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Tips and Techniques for Catching Largemouth Bass in Colorado
If you’re looking for the best bass fishing lakes in Colorado, it’s important to know the tips and techniques for catching big bass in the state.
Here are some tips to help you catch more and bigger bass in Colorado.
Best Baits and Lures to Use in Colorado
When bass fishing in Colorado, the best baits and lures are crankbaits, jigs, and live bait. These baits and lures work well in shallow and deeper water and can be used year-round. For those who prefer artificial lures, try using swimbaits or soft plastics.
Weather and Seasonal Considerations For Bass Fishing In Colorado
The weather and seasons in Colorado can significantly affect bass fishing. In the summer months, early morning and late afternoon are the best times to fish. Try ice fishing for bass in some of the state’s lakes and reservoirs in winter.
Bass Fishing Techniques
When fishing for bass in Colorado, knowing the proper techniques is essential. For example, fishing in weedy shallows can be a great spot to find big bass.
Try using a drop shot rig or Carolina rig when fishing in deeper water. And remember to pay attention to the water temperature, as bass tend to be more aggressive in warmer water.
Tips for Bass Fishing
- Live bait, such as worms or minnows, is great for catching bass.
- Artificial lures, such as spinnerbaits or crankbaits, can also be effective.
- Use a fishing line with a test weight of at least 10 pounds to ensure you can reel in larger fish.
- Look for areas with deeper water or underwater structures, such as rocks or fallen trees, where bass like to hide.
- Try ice fishing for bass in some of Colorado’s lakes and reservoirs in winter.
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Conclusion – Best Bass Fishing in Colorado
Colorado is a paradise for bass fishing enthusiasts, with its abundance of lakes and rivers. The state offers a variety of fish species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, brown trout, northern pike, channel catfish, yellow perch, and more.
There are plenty of places to fish in Colorado, from the Arkansas River to the Colorado River. Horsetooth Reservoir, Pueblo Reservoir, and Chatfield Reservoir are some of Colorado’s best bass fishing lakes.
With easy access, miles of shoreline, and clear waters, Colorado’s lakes and rivers are a great place to catch big fish and enjoy the great outdoors.
Thanks for reading, and if you have any questions or comments, please leave them below. We love hearing from our readers.
Until next time Happy Bass Fishing!
Cory Haasnoot
Cory is a content writer-editor and founder of Tackle Box Talk. Favorite Quote: "Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime."