- Horsetooth Reservoir is a popular fishing destination located in Larimer County, Colorado.
- The reservoir is home to a variety of fish species including rainbow trout, brown trout, walleye, smallmouth bass, and channel catfish.
- The best time to fish at Horsetooth Reservoir is during the spring and fall months when the water temperature is cooler and the fish are more active.
- The South Bay area of the reservoir is known for its excellent fishing opportunities for smallmouth bass and walleye.
- The Inlet Bay area is another great spot for fishing, particularly for rainbow trout and brown trout.
- Fishing from a boat or kayak can be very productive at Horsetooth Reservoir as it allows anglers to access deeper water where larger fish may be lurking.
- Anglers should be aware that there are specific regulations in place regarding catch limits and bait restrictions at Horsetooth Reservoir. It’s important to familiarize yourself with these regulations before heading out on the water.
Are you tired of casting your line into the same old fishing spots? Do you crave a new challenge in uncharted waters? Look no further than Horsetooth Reservoir, one of Colorado’s premier angling destinations.
Nestled at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Horsetooth Reservoir boasts over 6 miles of pristine shoreline. But with so much space to explore, finding the best fishing spot can feel like a daunting task. Whether you’re chasing after trout, bass, or walleye, there’s nothing worse than spending a day on the water with no bites to show for it.
But fear not! As an expert human writer and researcher, I have scoured Horsetooth Reservoir to find the absolute best fishing spots. From hidden coves to underwater rock formations, these areas are sure to make your next fishing trip a success. So grab your gear and get ready for an adventure – let’s dive into the best places to fish at Horsetooth Reservoir.
The Quick Answer:
The best times to fish at Horsetooth Reservoir depend on the type of fish you want to catch. Spring and fall are ideal for trout, while walleye and smallmouth bass can be targeted in the fall. Catfish and carp thrive in summer months. Horsetooth Reservoir offers a diverse range of fish species, including rainbow, brown, cutthroat trout, and walleye.
Best Times of Year to Fish at Horsetooth Reservoir
The best times of year to fish at Horsetooth Reservoir vary depending on the type of fish you want to catch. Generally, the best time to fish is during the cooler months of spring and fall when the water temperature is more comfortable for fish. During these seasons, fish are more active and likely to bite.
In spring, from March through May, you can expect to catch a variety of trout species including rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. During this season, you should focus on fishing in shallow waters where trout feed on insects that hatch near the shoreline.
Fall is also an excellent time for fishing at Horsetooth Reservoir. From September through November, anglers can target walleye and smallmouth bass as they move toward shallower waters in search of food before winter arrives. During this season, try using live bait or lures that mimic small fish.
During summer months, fishing can be challenging due to high water temperatures and increased recreational activities on the lake. However, if you’re looking to catch catfish or carp, summer can be a great time to do so as they tend to thrive in warmer waters.
Best Months for Each Species:
- Trout: March – May
- Walleye and Smallmouth Bass: September – November
- Catfish and Carp: Summer months
Types of Fish You Can Catch at Horsetooth Reservoir
Horsetooth Reservoir offers a diverse range of fish species that attract anglers from all over Colorado. Some of the most popular species include:
Trout:
Horsetooth Reservoir is known for its abundant trout population which includes rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. These fish can be caught throughout the year, but the best time to catch them is in the spring when they are more active.
Walleye:
Walleye can be found in deeper waters during the summer months but move toward shallower waters in the fall before winter arrives. They are known for their elusive nature and can be difficult to catch.
Smallmouth Bass:
Smallmouth bass can be found throughout the lake and are most active during the early morning and late evening. They prefer rocky areas with plenty of cover and can be caught using live bait or lures.
Catfish:
Catfish are abundant in Horsetooth Reservoir and can be caught using a variety of baits including chicken liver, nightcrawlers, and stinkbait. The best time to catch catfish is during the summer months when water temperatures are warmer.
Top Spots for Fishing at Horsetooth Reservoir
Horsetooth Reservoir offers many great spots for fishing depending on what type of fish you want to catch.
One popular location for trout fishing is near the Inlet Bay Marina where there are shallow waters that trout feed on insects that hatch near the shoreline. For walleye and smallmouth bass, try fishing near rocky areas or drop-offs in deeper waters such as South Bay or Dixon Cove.
If you’re looking to catch catfish or carp, try fishing near coves or bays where there is plenty of vegetation for these species to thrive on.
Top Fishing Spots:
- Inlet Bay Marina – Trout
- South Bay – Walleye and Smallmouth Bass
- Dixon Cove – Walleye and Smallmouth Bass
- Coves and Bays – Catfish and Carp
Recommended Techniques and Equipment for Fishing at Horsetooth Reservoir
The best techniques and equipment for fishing at Horsetooth Reservoir depend on the type of fish you want to catch. For trout, try using lightweight spinning gear with 4-6 lb test line and small lures or live bait.
For walleye and smallmouth bass, use medium to heavy spinning gear with 8-10 lb test line and lures that mimic small fish such as jigs or crankbaits.
When fishing for catfish or carp, use heavier gear with 15-20 lb test line and a variety of baits including chicken liver, nightcrawlers, or stinkbait.
No matter what type of fish you’re targeting, it’s important to have a valid Colorado fishing license before casting your line.
Recommended Gear:
- Lightweight Spinning Gear – Trout
- Medium to Heavy Spinning Gear – Walleye and Smallmouth Bass
- Heavier Gear – Catfish and Carp
- Jigs or Crankbaits – Walleye and Smallmouth Bass
- Baits: Chicken Liver, Nightcrawlers, Stinkbait – Catfish and Carp
Regulations and Restrictions to Know Before Fishing at Horsetooth Reservoir
Before heading out for a day of fishing at Horsetooth Reservoir, it’s important to be aware of the regulations and restrictions set by the Colorado Parks & Wildlife Department.
All anglers over the age of 16 must have a valid Colorado fishing license which can be purchased online or at a licensed vendor. Additionally, there are daily bag limits and size restrictions for some species.
It’s also important to note that swimming and boating activities may be restricted in certain areas during fishing season, so be sure to check with park rangers before setting up your gear.
Regulations and Restrictions:
- All anglers over 16 must have a valid Colorado fishing license.
- Daily bag limits and size restrictions may apply.
- Swimming and boating activities may be restricted in certain areas during fishing season.
Guided Fishing Tours and Services Available at Horsetooth Reservoir
If you’re new to fishing or want to improve your skills, guided fishing tours and services are available at Horsetooth Reservoir. These tours provide experienced guides who can take you to the best spots on the lake while providing valuable tips and techniques for catching fish.
Some services offer full-day or half-day trips with all necessary gear included. Others offer fly-fishing lessons or casting clinics for those looking to improve their skills.
Guided Fishing Services:
- Rocky Mountain Adventures
- Dave Genz Guide Service
- Ram Angler Fly Shop & Guide Service
How Weather and Water Conditions Affect Fishing Success at Horsetooth Reservoir
Weather and water conditions can greatly affect fishing success at Horsetooth Reservoir. During hot summer months, fish tend to move toward deeper, cooler waters making them more difficult to catch.
In contrast, during cooler spring and fall months, fish are more active due to comfortable water temperatures which make them more likely to bite. Additionally, during periods of high wind or low barometric pressure, fish may become more active and feed more aggressively.
It’s important to keep an eye on weather and water conditions before heading out for a day of fishing. Check the forecast and monitor water temperatures to increase your chances of success.
Weather and Water Conditions:
- Hot Summer Months – Fish move toward deeper waters
- Cooler Spring and Fall Months – Fish are more active due to comfortable water temperatures
- High Wind or Low Barometric Pressure – Fish may become more active and feed more aggressively
Amenities and Facilities Near Horsetooth Reservoir for Anglers
Horsetooth Reservoir offers many amenities and facilities for anglers including boat ramps, fishing piers, picnic areas, and campgrounds.
Boat rentals are also available at the Inlet Bay Marina for those who don’t have their own boat. Additionally, there are several bait shops in the area that sell live bait and fishing gear.
For those looking to make a weekend out of their fishing trip, there are several campgrounds nearby including Horsetooth Reservoir Campground which offers RV sites as well as tent camping.
Amenities:
- Boat Ramps
- Fishing Piers
- Picnic Areas
- Campgrounds
- Boat Rentals at Inlet Bay Marina
- Bait Shops in Area
Horsetooth Reservoir is the perfect destination for fishing enthusiasts, offering a variety of fish species and scenic views that make it the best place to fish.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Place to Fish at Horsetooth Reservoir
Is Horsetooth Reservoir good for fishing?
Horsetooth Lake provides excellent opportunities for fishing from either the shore or a boat. Various species of fish, including Walleye, Smallmouth Bass, White Bass, Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Cutbow Trout, and Yellow Perch, can be caught in the lake.
What kind of fish are in Horsetooth Reservoir in Fort Collins Colorado?
The area known as Horsetooth Reservoir is a location where fish can be found.
Is Horsetooth Reservoir free?
To access Carter Lake, Flatiron, Pinewood, and Horsetooth Reservoirs, Blue Sky Trailhead, Horsetooth Mountain Open Space (including Soderberg Trailhead), Ramsay-Shockey Open Space, Hermit Park Open Space, and Devil’s Backbone Open Space (newly added in 2022), entrance permits are required.
How deep is the Horsetooth Reservoir?
Horsetooth Reservoir has a large capacity of 156,735 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 1,900 acres, with a shoreline stretching for 25 miles. Its maximum depth reaches 188 feet.
What is at the bottom of Horsetooth Reservoir?
Stout was a town located in Colorado that no longer exists, as it is now underneath Horsetooth Reservoir near Fort Collins. The town was known for its sandstone quarries, which provided its main source of income during the late 1800s. Many sidewalks in Denver, Omaha, and Lincoln were constructed using Stout’s sandstone.
What’s under Horsetooth Reservoir?
Chances are, you’re not familiar with the town of Stout, located beneath the Horsetooth Reservoir. However, if you’ve visited Denver, you’ve likely come across its most well-known product.