Central Colorado
Fishing

Colorado is known world-wide for its excellent fishery; particularly it's cold-water species. Central Colorado waters hold quality cutthroat, rainbow, brook, brown, and lake trout. The area offers world-class trout fishing combined with breathtaking views of the Central Colorado Rockies. Anglers have an opportunity to fish "Gold Medal" streams and rivers running crystal-clear through open grasslands and boulder filled gorges with scenic 14,000 foot peaks as the backdrop. The high mountain lakes offer anglers the chance to catch native brook trout and other trout species. You can fish for quality trout in streams that are designated as "Wild Trout" water. The state of Colorado has an excellent fish stocking program so almost every stream, river, or lake in the Central Rocky Mountains have fish; and lots of them. Fishing does not end when winter comes; many lakes in the region have good ice fishing. And some rivers and stream offer excellent fishing for trophy trout all year. Local guides and outfitters offer guided fishing trips on some of the most productive fishing streams in the area. Or you may choose a guided float fishing trip on the Arkansas River.

Gold Medal Waters:
Waters designated as Gold Medal by the Colorado Division of Wildlife are lakes or streams in Colorado offering the greatest potential for trophy trout fishing.

Wild Trout Waters:
Waters designated as Wild Trout Waters by the Colorado Division of Wildlife are waters with self-sustaining trout populations. Artificial stocking occurs only in emergencies.

Trout Fishing Areas

Colorado Division Of Wildlife--The Colorado Division Of Wildlife regulates sports fishing in the state of Colorado. Their publication Colorado Fishing Season Information & Wildlife Property Directory is available online at the Divisions website. This document is sometimes referred to as the "Colorado Fishing Brochure". It provides the sports fishing regulations and other information about fishing in the state including descriptions of "Gold Medal Waters" and "Wild Trout Waters".

Fish Explorer -- Extensive fishing, boating, and camping information for Colorado Lakes.

Return to top

Fishing Guides

Experienced guides and outfitters can take you to the most productive public and private waters and show you proven techniques for catching quality fish. If you are after trophy trout, they know the best stretches of Gold Medal and Wild Trout Waters and how to fish them. Many outfitters offer guided float fishing trips on the Arkansas River. These outfitters can take you to Gold Medal fishing sections on the Arkansas that are reachable only by boat. Other services include guided trips to high country lakes and streams for native cutthroat trout and brookies. These are some of the guides and outfitters located in the Central Colorado area:

Return to top

Tackle Shops

Return to top