Our Favorite Lakes in Colorado
Chatfield Reservoir
Chatfield Reservoir is home to rainbow trout, catfish, walleye, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and sunfish. This is a state park so be prepared to pay the $10 entrance fee unless you have a state park license with your car registration.
Cherry Creek Reservoir
Cherry Creek Reservoir is a convenient spot located right in the Denver metro area. It’s stocked with walleye, crappie, rainbow trout, and largemouth bass. Occasional reports include channel catfish and bluegill. Since it’s part of Cherry Creek State Park, there’s a $10 entrance fee unless you have a valid Colorado State Parks pass on your vehicle.
Spinney Mountain Reservoir
Spinney Mountain Reservoir is an amazing lake in Colorado, however it’s farther away from Denver. It offers great opportunities to catch big rainbow trout, brown trout, cutthroat trout, and pike.
Blue Mesa Reservoir
Blue Mesa Reservoir is Colorado’s largest body of water and a hotspot for trophy lake trout. Located near Gunnison, this reservoir also offers rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon. The scenery is incredible, and it's a must-visit for anglers chasing monster fish and epic mountain views. Be prepared to stay for more than 1 day here.
Lake Granby
Lake Granby is a fantastic lake within the Rocky Mountains and about a 2 hours drive from denver. This lake holds big rainbow, brown and lake trout. Additionally, this lake has Sockeye salmon.
Eleven Mile Reservoir
Eleven Mile Reservoir, located southwest of Denver near Lake George, is a popular destination for catching rainbow trout, cutbow trout, brown trout, and northern pike. The lake is known for its windy conditions, but the fishing can be worth it. As part of Eleven Mile State Park, expect to pay the $10 daily entrance fee unless your car has a park pass.