Fishing in Colorado Springs

There’s nothing quite like the serenity of casting a line into glimmering waters. Fishing in Colorado Springs is an experience unlike any other. Whether you want to stand on the bank of a river, sit on the edge of a dock, wade in up to your knees or take the boat for a spin around a glistening lake, fishing near Colorado Springs has everything you need to have the ultimate fishing adventure.

WHERE TO GO

1. Arkansas River- Cañon City

Recently, the Arkansas River was awarded as a Gold Medal fishing destination. With its fast flowing water and easy access, the Arkansas River is an ideal fishing spot for every level of experience. Surrounding rock structures provide an excellent trout, making the Arkansas a fly fisherman’s paradise. 

2. Fountain Creek- Manitou

If you’re looking for a unique, urban small-creek fishery, you’ve come to the right spot. Located just off Manitou Avenue, this creek is perfect for catching your fill of brown trout without having to venture too far from civilization. The creek is located close to restaurants, restrooms, children’s playgrounds and shopping for your inner city slicker.

3. Crystal Creek Reservoir- Pikes Peak

Crystal Creek Reservoir is one of three areas to fish in the Pikes Peak North Slope Recreation area. This reservoir is the perfect choice for kids of all ages. The surrounding area also offers numerous recreational activities such as hiking, biking and non-motorized boating. It offers easy access to rainbow, greenback cutthroat and brook trout for everyone from beginner to experienced anglers.

4. Monument Lake- Monument

Monument Lake is a reservoir located just .4 miles from Monument, in El Paso County. Here, you can find a variety of fish including brown trout, catfish, sucker, rainbow trout and smallmouth bass. Whether you’re baitcasting, fly fishing or taking the little ones on their first fishing adventure, you're bound to catch your fill at Monument Lake. Check out this Fishing Times chart to determine when the fish will be most active.

EXTRA INFORMATION

For Fishing License purchase, fishing rules, and fishing regulations please visit Colorado Fish & Wildlife. Please remember to check with the local Fish and Wildlife department to ensure the stream is open to the public.

Interesting in finding more fishing locations? Explore a more extensive list of all the great spots for fishing in Colorado Springs and the surrounding areas.

WHAT TO BRING

You’ll never forget your first experience fishing in or near Colorado Springs. So that you don’t forget any critical gear, we’ve compiled a simple packing list to ensure that your first experience fishing in Colorado Springs is the best that it can be.

• Fishing rod – be sure that you select the right type of rod that suits your type of fishing
• Hooks – bring a variety
• Bait – live or prepared (be sure to check bait restrictions for each fishing area)
• Weights – to keep your line in the water
• Bobber – these let you know when the fish bites
• Tackle Box
• Fishing Vest
• Cooler with cold drinks and snacks for the day
• Bug spray
• Sun screen
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Camera
• Jacket and/or sweatshirt
• Waders
• Change of clothes in case you get wet
• Poncho or Rain gear

If you’re not sure where to start, we have an excellent list of fishing guides that provide quality services, gear and expertise that will enhance the experience of fishing in Colorado Springs.

Don’t forget to order our FREE Colorado Springs Visitors Guide.