Fishing Fun: 7 Colorado State Parks to Reel in the Big One

With its alpine lakes, rushing rivers and wide-open reservoirs, Colorado is a dream destination for anglers. The state’s parks system protects some of the most scenic fishing spots in the Rockies, where it offers a mix of trout-filled streams, peaceful ponds and vast lakes. Grab your fishing rod and reels, gas up the boat and get ready to explore some of the Centennial State’s best state parks and lakes for boating fun.

1. Eleven Mile State Park

Set in South Park near Lake George, Eleven Mile State Park features the 3,400-acre Eleven Mile Reservoir, which is famous for its trophy-sized rainbow, cutthroat and brown trout. Northern pike and kokanee salmon also thrive here, making it one of Colorado’s premier year-round fishing destinations. Fish from the shore, boats or kayaks at popular spots like Witcher's Cove and the Dream Stream.. Regulations include catch-and-release within 100 feet of the inlet and a daily vehicle park pass requirement. The park has amenities such as campsites, hiking trails and a marina, making it a full-service destination to visit from private boat lifts for rent.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Rainbow, cutthroat and brown trout, pike, kokanee salmon
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore, kayak

2. Boyd Lake State Park

Located near Loveland, the 1,700-acre Boyd Lake, at Boyd Lake State Park, is a favorite for warm-water fishing. Reel in walleye, catfish, crappie and bass. Convenient boat ramps and shoreline access make it great for both casual and serious anglers. The park has amenities like boat ramps, campsites and picnic areas. It’s an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts to visit a private boat dock rental.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Catfish, walleye, crappie, bass
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

3. Steamboat Lake State Park

This high-mountain lake near Steamboat Springs is as beautiful as it is productive. The 1,050-acre reservoir at Steamboat Lake State Park is stocked with rainbow and cutthroat trout. It’s a great choice for anglers who also want postcard-worthy scenery. You’ll find amenities like boat ramps, campsites and hiking trails. Fishing regulations include a daily bag limit of four fish. Cutthroat trout are catch-and-release only. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Rainbow trout, cutthroat trout
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore, ice fishing

4. North Sterling State Park

North Sterling State Park, in Sterling in northeastern Colorado, offers the 3,000-acre North Sterling Reservoir. It’s known for walleye, crappie, channel catfish, bluegill, trout and largemouth bass. There are multiple access points, including boat ramps and shoreline areas, with popular fishing spots like Darby Arm, Cunningham Arm and the dam area. Fishing is allowed year-round, and there are specific regulations to protect fish populations. Park amenities include camping, hiking trails and picnic areas.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Walleye, largemouth bass, crappie, trout
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

5. Navajo State Park

Straddling the Colorado and New Mexico border, Navajo State Park offers miles of shoreline along the San Juan River. Reel in northern pike, kokanee salmon, catfish and smallmouth bass. Fishing is permitted year-round. There are specific regulations to protect fish populations. Anglers should be aware of the need for valid fishing licenses from both Colorado and New Mexico to fish the entire reservoir. The park has boat ramps, campsites and hiking trails. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Smallmouth bass, northern pike, kokanee salmon, catfish
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

6. Jackson Lake State Park

This eastern plains reservoir is well-loved for warm-water fishing, especially walleye, perch and catfish. The open setting of Jackson Lake State Park, located in Orchard, makes it an excellent spot for a quiet day of relaxation from a private boat slip rental. Amenities include camp sites and hiking trails. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Perch, walleye, catfish, common carp
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

7. Mueller State Park

Though better known for hiking and wildlife, Mueller State Park also offers a serene mountain fishing experience. It’s a wonderful spot for families or those seeking a day of peace and relaxation. Located in Divide, in the Pike’s Peak region, the park has several small, stocked ponds, including Dragonfly Pond, which are accessible via short hikes. These ponds are primarily stocked with brook trout. Fishing is permitted from the shore, but no boats or floating devices are allowed on the ponds. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Trout
• Fishing Type: Shore