- Cherry Creek Reservoir is a popular fishing destination in Colorado, known for its abundant fish population and scenic views.
- The best place to fish at Cherry Creek Reservoir is the dam area, where anglers can catch a variety of species including walleye, bass, catfish, and trout.
- Other good spots to try include the marina cove and the inlet area near the swim beach.
- Fishing from a boat or kayak can be especially productive, as it allows you to access deeper water and cover more ground.
- When fishing at Cherry Creek Reservoir, it’s important to have the right gear and bait. Some recommended lures include jigs, crankbaits, and soft plastics.
- Be sure to check local regulations before fishing at Cherry Creek Reservoir, as there may be restrictions on certain species or methods of fishing.
Are you tired of going to the same old fishing spots? Do you want to try your luck at a new location that’s sure to provide a great catch? Look no further than Cherry Creek Reservoir! This hidden gem, located just outside of Denver, Colorado, boasts some of the best fishing opportunities in the area.
But with so many options within the reservoir, where is the best place to drop your line? Don’t worry – I’ve got you covered. As a seasoned angler and expert researcher, I’ve done the legwork for you and found the top spots to cast your reel. From prime locations for catching trout to secluded areas perfect for relaxation and reflection, this article will guide you through the best places to fish at Cherry Creek Reservoir.
Whether you’re an experienced fisherman or a beginner looking for a new adventure, Cherry Creek Reservoir has something for everyone. So grab your gear and let’s dive into the top fishing spots waiting for you at this scenic destination.
The Quick Answer:
Cherry Creek Reservoir boasts a variety of gamefish, including rainbow trout, walleye, smallmouth bass, and channel catfish. Fishing is available year-round, with peak seasons varying by species. Rainbow trout are stocked in the spring and fall, while walleye fishing is best in the summer months. Smallmouth bass can be caught throughout the year, and channel catfish are most active during warm weather months.
The History of Cherry Creek Reservoir as a Fishing Destination
Cherry Creek Reservoir is located in Aurora, Colorado, and it has been a popular fishing destination for decades. The reservoir was created in 1950 by the US Army Corps of Engineers to control flooding along Cherry Creek. The dam that created the reservoir is over 80 feet tall and almost 1,000 feet long.
The area around Cherry Creek Reservoir has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s when Native American tribes used the land for hunting and gathering. Later, settlers began farming and ranching in the area. In the early 1900s, Denver Water purchased water rights to use the creek’s water for drinking water.
In the 1960s, the City of Aurora purchased land around Cherry Creek Reservoir to create a recreational area that included camping, boating, and fishing. Since then, Cherry Creek Reservoir has become one of Colorado’s most popular outdoor recreation areas.
The Importance of Fisheries Management at Cherry Creek Reservoir
The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Department (CPW) manages fisheries at Cherry Creek Reservoir to ensure that fish populations remain healthy and sustainable. CPW stocks the reservoir with several species of fish each year, including rainbow trout, walleye, smallmouth bass, and channel catfish.
To maintain healthy fish populations at Cherry Creek Reservoir, CPW uses several management strategies such as creel surveys to monitor fish harvest rates and electrofishing surveys to estimate fish populations.
CPW also enforces fishing regulations designed to protect fish populations from over-harvesting or other detrimental impacts such as littering or pollution.
Types of Fish and Seasons for Fishing at Cherry Creek Reservoir
Cherry Creek Reservoir is home to various species of gamefish that provide anglers with year-round fishing opportunities. The most popular fish species at the reservoir include rainbow trout, walleye, smallmouth bass, and channel catfish.
Rainbow Trout
Rainbow trout are stocked into Cherry Creek Reservoir each year by CPW. Trout fishing is best in the spring and fall when water temperatures are cooler. Anglers can use a variety of techniques such as bait fishing with worms or PowerBait or fly fishing with dry flies, nymphs, or streamers.
Walleye
Walleye are one of the most sought-after gamefish at Cherry Creek Reservoir. Walleye fishing is best in the spring and summer months when water temperatures warm up. Anglers can target walleye using techniques such as trolling with crankbaits or jigging with soft plastics.
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth bass are abundant in Cherry Creek Reservoir and provide anglers with excellent sportfishing opportunities. Smallmouth bass fishing is best in the summer and fall when water temperatures are warmer. Anglers can use a variety of techniques such as casting crankbaits, soft plastics, or topwater lures.
Channel Catfish
Channel catfish are also abundant in Cherry Creek Reservoir and provide anglers with great catch-and-release opportunities throughout the year. Channel catfish can be caught using techniques such as bottom fishing with stinkbaits, chicken liver, or cut bait.
Regulations and Restrictions for Fishing at Cherry Creek Reservoir
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) enforces several regulations to protect fish populations at Cherry Creek Reservoir from over-harvesting or other detrimental impacts. Anglers must possess a valid Colorado fishing license before fishing at the reservoir.
Some important regulations to keep in mind when fishing at Cherry Creek Reservoir include:
– There is a daily bag limit of four trout, walleye, or smallmouth bass in any combination.
– There is no minimum size limit for trout, but all walleye and smallmouth bass must be at least 18 inches long to keep.
– Anglers are required to immediately release all largemouth bass they catch.
– All channel catfish under 15 inches must be released immediately.
Popular Techniques and Bait for Fishing at Cherry Creek Reservoir
Anglers can use various techniques and baits when fishing at Cherry Creek Reservoir. Some popular techniques include casting lures, trolling with crankbaits or spinnerbaits, jigging with soft plastics, or bottom fishing with bait.
Some popular baits that work well at Cherry Creek Reservoir include:
– Nightcrawlers
– PowerBait
– Minnows
– Chicken liver
– Cut bait
– Stinkbaits
Guided Fishing Tours Available at Cherry Creek Reservoir
Several outfitters offer guided fishing tours at Cherry Creek Reservoir. These tours provide anglers with an opportunity to learn about the reservoir’s fish populations and the best techniques and baits to use when targeting specific species.
Guided fishing tours typically include all necessary equipment such as rods, reels, tackle, and bait. They may also provide transportation to and from the reservoir.
Accessibility and Designated Areas for Bank Fishing at Cherry Creek Reservoir
Cherry Creek Reservoir has several designated areas for bank fishing that are accessible to anglers of all skill levels. The most popular bank fishing areas include the Dam Wall area, Marina Cove area, and Catfish Flats area.
These designated areas have ample shoreline access and are marked by signs indicating where fishing is allowed. However, it’s important to note that some areas may be closed seasonally or during specific hours.
Amenities and Facilities Available for Anglers at Cherry Creek Reservoir
Cherry Creek Reservoir offers several amenities and facilities that make it a great destination for anglers. The reservoir has several boat ramps, fishing piers, and picnic areas located throughout the park.
There are also several campgrounds located near the reservoir that offer camping and RV sites with electrical hookups, showers, and restrooms.
Nearby Restaurants and Accommodations Catering to Fishermen Visiting Cherry Creek Reservoir
There are several restaurants and accommodations located near Cherry Creek Reservoir that cater to fishermen. Some popular restaurants include the Tackle Box Bar & Grill, which serves casual American fare such as burgers, sandwiches, and wings.
Accommodations near the reservoir include hotels such as the Hyatt Regency Aurora-Denver Conference Center or Airbnb rentals located in Aurora or nearby Denver.
In conclusion, Cherry Creek Reservoir is the best place to fish due to its abundance of fish species, beautiful scenery, and well-maintained facilities. Fishing enthusiasts of all levels will find something to enjoy at this popular fishing destination.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Place to Fish at Cherry Creek Reservoir
Where can I fish at Cherry Creek Reservoir?
Cherry Creek Lake offers both shore and boat fishing, with the option to rent boats at the Cherry Creek Marina. The East Boat Ramp is open every day from 6 AM to 10 PM, while the West Ramp is only open from Friday through Tuesday during the same hours.
Is fishing good at Cherry Creek Reservoir?
Cherry Creek Reservoir is a great location for fishing various types of fish, including wiper, largemouth bass, trout, and walleye. Visitors can also enjoy a swim beach, camping, a marina, and plenty of other activities. Mark your calendars for April 12, 2023!
What fish are in Cherry Creek?
With the exception of when the Cherry Creek Dam is partially opened and floodwaters carry them downstream, there are few large fish in the area. These floodwaters can bring fish like rainbow trout, brown trout, mature sunfish, walleye, and northern pike.
Can you night fish at Cherry Creek Reservoir?
Aurora boasts a great lake for fishing, particularly for channel catfish. Cherry Creek State Park’s 880-acre reservoir is popular for fishing and offers a great opportunity for anglers to target this popular fish. Night fishing is especially good as the catfish are known for getting hungry in the late hours.
What is the water temperature at Cherry Creek Reservoir?
The current water temperature at Cherry Creek Reservoir in Colorado is 66°F and the weather forecast for today is mostly cloudy with a high of 76°F and a low of 46°F.
How deep is Cherry Creek Reservoir?
Cherry Creek Lake, located at the southeast border of Denver, covers an area of 850 acres and has a storage capacity of 13,960 acre-feet. It is situated where Cherry Creek and Cottonwood Creek meet and is 3.25 miles in length with an average depth of 46 feet.