Guide to 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.

Learn about some of our favorite fishing spots, what to pack and view local fish camps and guides in this handy guide to casting a line in our award-winning waters.

Whether you want to fish from the middle of a river, take a boat out onto a reservoir or sit on the banks of a glistening lake, the Pikes Peak region offers many different Colorado Springs fishing spots for anglers of all ages. Guides and tackle shops are available to help you create an amazing experience.

Top Fishing Spots in Colorado Springs

Top Places to Fish in Colorado Springs

1. Arkansas River - Cañon City, Colorado

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. Pikes Peak - America's Mountan, North Slope Recreation Area

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.

3. Pikes Peak South Slope Recreation Area

Accessible by permit, enjoy the trout fishing and serenity of three reservoirs on Pike's Peak South Slope. Open May - September, weather permitting.

4. Fountain Creek - Manitou Springs, Colorado

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.

5. Monument Lake - Monument, CO

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.

Licensing

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.

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