10 Best Ice Fishing Spots in Colorado
Where to Ice Fish in Colorado This Winter
Ice fishing in Colorado offers anglers some of the most diverse and productive winter fisheries in the West. From high-elevation mountain reservoirs to Front Range lakes near Denver, ice fishing in Colorado provides excellent opportunities to catch trout, kokanee salmon, perch, and lake trout beneath the ice. Whether you’re new to hard-water fishing or a seasoned angler, knowing where to ice fish in Colorado is key to a successful winter season.
If you’re unsure what species you catch through the ice, our fish identification guide helps anglers accurately identify fish species in Colorado while learning key facts about each one.
This Colorado ice fishing guide breaks down the 10 best ice fishing spots in Colorado, highlighting some of the best ice fishing lakes in Colorado for the 2025 season. Each location below is a proven Colorado ice fishing spot, chosen for reliability, species diversity, and overall winter fishing quality.
Ice conditions, stocking reports, and regulations can change quickly, so staying up to date with the latest fishing news helps anglers plan safer and more productive ice fishing trips in Colorado.
Before heading out, anglers should always review Colorado ice fishing regulations published by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, as rules and ice conditions can vary by water body.
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1. Eleven Mile Reservoir
Location: South Park (Park County)
Target Species: Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Cutthroat, Kokanee, Northern Pike
Eleven Mile Reservoir is one of the most iconic ice fishing spots in Colorado and remains a top destination for anglers looking for consistent ice fishing in Colorado. Located in South Park, this high-elevation reservoir freezes reliably most winters and offers a massive amount of fishable water once ice conditions are safe.
Checking the Colorado fish stocking report before planning a trip can help anglers target lakes that have recently received trout or kokanee, especially early in the ice season.
As one of the best ice fishing lakes in Colorado, Eleven Mile supports a diverse fishery with shallow flats, submerged weedbeds, and deeper basins that provide ideal winter habitat for trout and kokanee.
Why it stands out:
Eleven Mile excels at consistency and is frequently mentioned among the best ice fishing spots in Colorado for dependable action rather than record-chasing.
How to fish it through the ice:
Focus on flats that taper into deeper water, especially near historical weed growth. Early morning and late afternoon are prime times for ice fishing at Eleven Mile Reservoir. Start with a flashy lure to locate fish, then slow your presentation once trout show interest. For kokanee, fish deeper water with subtle movements and longer pauses.
2. Spinney Mountain Reservoir
Location: Park County
Target Species: Rainbow Trout, Cutthroat Trout, Kokanee Salmon
Spinney Mountain Reservoir is widely regarded as one of the best ice fishing lakes in Colorado for trophy trout. While it is often discussed as a premier open-water fishery, ice fishing in Colorado wouldn’t be complete without including Spinney as a top hard-water destination.
Trout here are known for size rather than numbers, making it a rewarding challenge for anglers targeting big fish through the ice.
Why it stands out:
Spinney is tied to the Colorado Cutbow Trout state length record (27.75 inches), reinforcing its reputation as one of the best ice fishing spots in Colorado for trophy potential.
How to fish it through the ice:
Stay mobile while ice fishing at Spinney Mountain Reservoir. Drill holes along travel routes between deeper basins and feeding flats. Start with aggressive presentations to draw fish in, then downsize if trout hesitate. Dead-sticking a second rod can be extremely effective.
3. Lake Granby
Location: Grand County
Target Species: Lake Trout, Kokanee Salmon, Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout
Lake Granby is one of the most popular Colorado ice fishing locations and consistently ranks among the best ice fishing spots in Colorado for multi-species opportunities. As the third-largest body of water in the state, it offers vast winter habitat for lake trout and suspended kokanee.
Granby’s size can feel intimidating, but anglers who understand where to ice fish in Colorado know that this lake rewards methodical searching.
Why it stands out:
Lake Granby is one of the most reliable ice fishing lakes in Colorado for large lake trout and strong kokanee populations.
How to fish it through the ice:
Target deep basin edges, submerged humps, and structural transitions. Electronics are critical when ice fishing Lake Granby, especially for suspended kokanee. Lake trout often respond to larger baits initially but may require downsizing.
4. Blue Mesa Reservoir
Location: Gunnison County
Target Species: Lake Trout, Kokanee Salmon, Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout
Blue Mesa Reservoir is widely regarded as Colorado’s premier trophy ice fishing destination. Its massive size and deep, cold water provide ideal conditions for growing truly large fish. Anglers here often accept fewer bites in exchange for the chance at something extraordinary.
The reservoir’s varied structure — including channels, points, and deep basins — allows fish to shift locations throughout the winter, rewarding anglers who remain mobile and adaptable.
Why it stands out:
Blue Mesa holds the Colorado state length record for lake trout (41.25 inches, 2024) and is nationally recognized for its trophy potential.
How to fish it through the ice:
Use a search-and-react strategy. Drill multiple holes, scan for fish, and move until you find activity. Start with aggressive jigging to provoke reaction strikes, then slow your cadence as fish approach. Many strikes occur during pauses rather than constant motion.
5. Antero Reservoir
Location: South Park (near Fairplay)
Target Species: Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout
Antero Reservoir is widely considered one of the best lakes in Colorado for beginner ice anglers. Its relatively shallow depth allows sunlight to penetrate the ice, keeping trout active throughout the winter. Early ice formation often means Antero is fishable before many other nearby lakes.
Despite its simplicity, Antero still produces quality trout and remains a favorite among families and anglers looking for steady action.
Why it stands out:
High catch rates and straightforward structure make Antero one of the most user-friendly ice fishing destinations in the state.
How to fish it through the ice:
Fish shallow flats and weed edges, especially during morning and evening hours. Keep your jig moving to trigger aggressive strikes. Bright colors often excel in clear conditions, while muted tones work well under cloud cover or heavy snow.
6. Chatfield Reservoir
Location: Near Denver (Douglas/Jefferson Counties)
Target Species: Trout, Yellow Perch, Walleye
Chatfield Reservoir provides a rare opportunity for ice fishing close to Denver when conditions allow. Due to its lower elevation, ice seasons can be short, but anglers who time it right often enjoy productive outings without long drives.
Perch are a primary winter target, while walleye offer an added challenge for anglers fishing during low-light periods.
Why it stands out:
Its proximity to the Front Range makes Chatfield one of the most accessible ice fishing spots in Colorado.
How to fish it through the ice:
Focus on deeper basins for perch, using small jigs tipped with bait. For walleye, fish dawn and dusk and keep presentations close to the bottom. Ice thickness varies — always check conditions carefully.
7. Cherry Creek Reservoir
Location: Aurora/Denver
Target Species: Yellow Perch, Trout
Cherry Creek Reservoir is a dependable metro-area ice fishery, best known for its yellow perch population. When schools are located, action can be fast and consistent.
The reservoir’s relatively simple basin structure makes it easy to pattern fish once you locate active areas.
Why it stands out:
Reliable perch fishing close to Denver with minimal travel required.
How to fish it through the ice:
Drill along basin drop-offs until you locate perch schools. Once found, stay put and refine your presentation. Light jigs with subtle movements consistently outperform aggressive tactics here.
8. Williams Fork Reservoir
Williams Fork Reservoir offers a quieter, less pressured alternative to nearby Granby. It’s cold, deep water supports healthy lake trout populations, while rainbow trout provide additional opportunity for ice anglers.
Those willing to fish patiently are often rewarded with quality fish and a more relaxed experience.
Why it stands out:
Lower fishing pressure compared to nearby lakes often translates into better opportunities.
How to fish it through the ice:
Late winter is often the most productive. Target deep structure and basin edges, and adjust jigging speed based on fish behavior observed on sonar.d be patient — lake trout here may take time to commit. Let fish behavior on sonar dictate your presentation speed.
9. Dillon Reservoir
Location: Summit County
Target Species: Arctic Char, Lake Trout, Kokanee Salmon, Trout
Dillon Reservoir stands apart from most Colorado ice fisheries due to its Arctic char population. Combined with lake trout and large browns, it offers a unique and challenging winter fishery at high elevation.
Fish often cruise structural features rather than holding tight to the bottom, making electronics especially valuable here.
Why it stands out:
Dillon is associated with multiple Colorado state length records, including Arctic Char (25.38 inches, 2024) and Brown Trout (30.00 inches, 2025).
How to fish it through the ice:
Target points, humps, and depth transitions. Use a search bait to draw fish in, then slow down and downsize if they hesitate. Pay close attention to fish behavior on sonar — Dillon fish often inspect before striking.
10. North Delaney Butte Lake
Location: North Park (Jackson County)
Target Species: Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout
North Delaney Butte Lake offers steady winter trout fishing in a quieter, scenic setting. Its moderate size and manageable depths make it approachable while still producing quality fish.
The surrounding North Park landscape adds to the experience, especially for anglers seeking solitude.
Why it stands out:
Consistent trout action without heavy crowds and reliable winter access.
How to fish it through the ice:
Fish moderate depths near structure using subtle presentations. Natural colors tend to work best. If action slows, stay mobile — trout here often roam rather than hold in one place.
Recommended Ice Fishing Gear for Colorado Winters
Having the right gear can make a huge difference when ice fishing in Colorado, especially given the state’s cold temperatures, high elevation, and constantly changing ice conditions. Whether you’re fishing one of the best ice fishing spots in Colorado for the first time or you’re a seasoned hard-water angler, investing in reliable ice fishing equipment improves safety, comfort, and success on the ice.
Below are some essential ice fishing gear recommendations commonly used by anglers across Colorado’s top ice fishing lakes. These items are especially useful for long days on the ice and variable winter weather.
Ice Augers
Fish Finders
Ice Fishing Tackle
Ice Saftey
Notes on Fish and Records
- Lake Trout Record: A 46 lb 14.6 oz lake trout was caught in Colorado from Blue Mesa Reservoir — one of the largest on record in the state.
- Kokanee Record: The Colorado record kokanee salmon (6 lbs 13 oz) was caught from Spinney Mountain Reservoir in 1986.
For the most current state fishing records, Colorado Parks and Wildlife maintains an official record list by weight and length for 46+ fish species.
If you land a memorable fish while ice fishing in Colorado, you can submit your ice fishing catch to our Slab Shots page for a chance to be featured on Reel Activities and win a monthly fishing giveaway.
For a complete overview of statewide fishing opportunities, regulations, and species, anglers can download the official Colorado fishing brochure published by Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
💡Takeaways
📌Colorado offers some of the most diverse ice fishing in the western United States
Ice fishing in Colorado provides anglers access to a wide range of species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout, kokanee salmon, yellow perch, walleye, and even Arctic char. From high-elevation mountain reservoirs to Front Range lakes near Denver, Colorado ice fishing destinations cater to both beginners and experienced hard-water anglers.📌The best ice fishing spots in Colorado vary by region and angler experience
South Park reservoirs like Eleven Mile and Spinney Mountain are known for consistency and trophy trout, while larger western-slope lakes such as Blue Mesa and Lake Granby offer opportunities for massive lake trout and kokanee. Front Range lakes like Chatfield and Cherry Creek provide accessible ice fishing close to Denver when conditions allow.📌Understanding structure and depth is critical for successful ice fishing
Most of the best ice fishing lakes in Colorado feature productive zones such as flats near drop-offs, submerged weedbeds, basin edges, humps, and depth transitions. Anglers who stay mobile and use electronics to track fish behavior consistently outperform those who fish a single spot all day.📌Ice fishing conditions and regulations can change quickly
Ice thickness, access points, and fishing regulations vary by water body and season. Before heading out, anglers should always check current Colorado ice fishing regulations, ice safety updates, and stocking reports published by Colorado Parks and Wildlife to ensure safe and legal ice fishing trips.📌Proper gear greatly improves safety and success on the ice
Successful ice fishing in Colorado often depends on having the right equipment, including a reliable ice auger, quality ice fishing rods and tackle, a fish finder or flasher, and essential ice safety gear. Investing in the right ice fishing gear allows anglers to stay mobile, detect subtle bites, and fish confidently in changing winter conditions.📌Colorado ice fishing offers opportunities beyond just catching fish
Many of Colorado’s top ice fishing spots provide scenic mountain views, quiet winter settings, and a strong angling community. Anglers can submit memorable catches to Slab Shots, stay informed through fishing news updates, and use fish identification resources to learn more about the species they encounter while ice fishing in Colorado .
FAQ
Where can you ice fish in Colorado?
Ice fishing in Colorado is available on many mountain reservoirs and select Front Range lakes during winter when ice conditions are safe. Some of the best ice fishing spots in Colorado include Eleven Mile Reservoir, Spinney Mountain Reservoir, Lake Granby, Blue Mesa Reservoir, Dillon Reservoir, and North Delaney Butte Lake. Front Range options like Chatfield and Cherry Creek can also offer ice fishing near Denver during colder winters.
Does Lake Granby freeze for ice fishing?
Yes, Lake Granby typically freezes enough for ice fishing during colder winters. Ice usually forms between late December and January, depending on weather conditions. As one of the best ice fishing lakes in Colorado, Lake Granby is popular for ice fishing lake trout and kokanee salmon, but anglers should always verify ice thickness before heading out due to the lake’s size and wind exposure.
Where is the best place to fish for walleye in Colorado?
Some of the best places to fish for walleye in Colorado include Chatfield Reservoir, Cherry Creek Reservoir, Pueblo Reservoir, and Rifle Gap Reservoir. Walleye are often targeted during low-light conditions, especially at dawn and dusk. While not all walleye lakes freeze every year, ice fishing for walleye in Colorado can be productive when conditions allow.
How much does ice fishing cost in Colorado?
Ice fishing in Colorado does not require a special permit beyond a valid Colorado fishing license. Costs typically include the fishing license, basic ice fishing gear, and optional equipment such as shelters or electronics. Many anglers start ice fishing in Colorado with minimal gear, making it an affordable winter activity.
How much is a non-resident fishing license in Colorado?
A Colorado non-resident fishing license typically costs more than a resident license and varies by duration. As of recent seasons, non-resident annual fishing licenses generally cost around $100, while short-term licenses are available at a lower price. Anglers should always check the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife website for the most up-to-date pricing before ice fishing in Colorado.
What months are best for ice fishing in Colorado?
The best months for ice fishing in Colorado are usually January and February, when ice thickness is most consistent across high-elevation reservoirs. Some lakes begin freezing in December, while others remain fishable into March. Ice conditions vary by location, so anglers should always confirm safety before ice fishing at any Colorado lake.
Jesse Earl – Author
Jesse Earl is a passionate freshwater angler and the founder of Reel Activities. When he’s not testing gear or writing how-to guides, you’ll find him exploring hidden lakes, chasing walleye, or casting from the shoreline with a cup of gas station coffee in hand.
