Colorado · Fishing
Fishing in Fort Collins, Colorado
Fort Collins sits at the edge of the Front Range with a surprisingly varied set of still-water fishing options within a short drive or even a short bike ride from downtown.
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Fort Collins sits at the edge of the Front Range with a surprisingly varied set of still-water fishing options within a short drive or even a short bike ride from downtown. The nine spots in and around the city run the gamut from small urban ponds like Riverbend Pond #6, Prospect Pond #3, and Little Bass Pond — all accessible and well-suited to beginners or anyone who wants a quick session without a long drive — to larger reservoirs like Horsetooth Reservoir and Douglas Reservoir where you have room to spread out and target bigger fish. Sheldon Lake and McMurry Park Lake sit in city parks and see regular pressure, but early mornings on weekdays can still produce. North Poudre Reservoir Number 1 and Curtis Lake round out the list with a slightly more off-the-beaten-path feel. The mix of ponds, lakes, and reservoirs means you can match the water type to your gear and your schedule. A Colorado fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older at all of these locations, and a few spots carry additional regulations, so checking the CPW regulation booklet before you go is worth the ten minutes it takes.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Colorado fishing license to fish the ponds and lakes in Fort Collins?
Yes. Anyone 16 or older needs a valid Colorado fishing license at all of these waters, including the urban ponds like Riverbend Pond #6, Prospect Pond #3, and Little Bass Pond. You can buy a license online through Colorado Parks and Wildlife or at local sporting goods stores in Fort Collins.
What is the best time of day to fish Horsetooth Reservoir or Douglas Reservoir?
Early morning and the hour or two before sunset are consistently the most productive windows at both reservoirs. Midday in summer can slow things down significantly as surface temperatures rise and fish move deeper. If you are fishing from shore rather than a boat, early morning also means less competition for access points.
Which spots are best for beginners or families with kids?
The smaller ponds — Little Bass Pond, Prospect Pond #3, and Riverbend Pond #6 — are the most approachable. They are easy to access, require minimal gear, and are stocked by CPW on a seasonal schedule. A basic spinning rod with a small hook, split shot, and a worm is all you need to get started at any of them.
What gear should I bring for fishing the lakes and reservoirs around Fort Collins?
For the larger waters like Horsetooth Reservoir and Douglas Reservoir, a medium-action spinning or baitcasting rod in the 6 to 7 foot range covers most situations. Shore anglers do well with jigs, spinners, and PowerBait-style baits. At the smaller ponds, lighter tackle in the ultralight to light range is more practical and more fun given the close quarters.
When is the fishing season, and are there any closures to know about?
Most of these waters are open year-round, including ice fishing at Horsetooth Reservoir and some of the other larger bodies when conditions allow. That said, specific regulations, bag limits, and any temporary closures can vary by water body and change seasonally. Always check the current CPW regulation booklet for the Southeast and Northeast plains and Front Range zones before your trip.
