Fishing Blue Mesa Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Blue Mesa Reservoir, CO
Kokanee Salmon Fishing
As one of the top kokanee fishing lakes in Colorado, Blue Mesa Reservoir delivers plenty of fish above normal averages. Sockeye salmon which remain landlocked, never migrating to the ocean, are called kokanee salmon. On-going stocking of kokanee salmon by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife helps to maintain a nice population for the fishery. Typically kokanee average one to two pounds. These tasty fish school in lakes at depths which remain at ideal temperatures of between 48 and 58 degrees. Once this depth is identified, use a fish finder to locate schools. Use small lures trolled at the appropriate depth. The can also be caught using corn, but the main way they are caught is using flashy lures which they attack when the lure intrudes their space. In winter, once the ice is safe, try ice fishing for kokanee.
Brown Trout Fishing
Currently, fishing for brown trout in Blue Mesa Reservoir is delivering some nice catches. These hearty fighters migrate around the lake in search of baitfish and comfortable water temperatures, preferably in the 50 to 62 degree range. In spring brown trout, along with the baitfish, move to the shallows which warms first. As the days get warmer in summer they move deeper, again following schools of bait. As Fall and Winter arrive, browns tend to stay in deeper water. When these trout move deep, it is typically in the 20- to 45-foot range. Nightcrawlers are always a good bait for brown trout. In-line spinners, bait-colored crankbaits and small spoons are other options. Experiment with depth and retrieve speed. When the lake freezes over, enjoy ice fishing for trout.
Rainbow Trout Fishing
Excellent stocking programs by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife has helped to maintain a good population of rainbow trout for anglers at Blue Mesa Reservoir. Fish for rainbow trout here with worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic their preferred prey. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing. While fishing from a boat is preferred, plenty of trout are caught here by anglers fishing from the bank. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish.
Blue Mesa Reservoir Fishing Video
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for rainbow trout, brown trout, mackinaw lake trout yellow perch and kokanee salmon at Blue Mesa Reservoir in Colorado.
An impoundment on the Gunnison River, Blue Mesa Reservoir is a 10,000-acre reservoir located in the southwest corner of the state, 10 miles west of Gunnison, CO. It is the largest lake in Colorado and brags 96 miles of shoreline. Elk Creek Marina, boat launch ramps and several campgrounds enhance any trip here for boating camping and fishing. Ice fishing in winter can produce some good fish frys as well as the chance to catch a lunker.
Fish Species in Blue Mesa Reservoir, CO
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Blue Mesa Reservoir Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Fishing Boat Rentals
Elk Creek Marina
Rentals: Pontoon boats, canoes and kayaks
970 641-0707
Marinas
Elk Creek Marina
24830 US-50
Gunnison, CO 81230
970 641-0707
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Curecanti National Recreation Area Launch Ramp
This is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and lots of paved parking. It is located mid-lake on the north side of the lake at Elk Creek Marina.
Iola Boat Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, this is a really nice launch area with a four-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and lots of paved parking.
Lake Fork Boat Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, this is a really nice launch area with a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and lots of paved parking.
Fishing Guides On Blue Mesa Reservoir
Blue Mesa Fishing Guide - trout, salmon
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Colorado fishing license.
Closest Campgrounds & RV Parks
Elk Creek Campground - 970 641-2337
Gunnison Lakeside RV Park & Cabins - 970 641-0477
Blue Mesa Point Campground - 970 641-3086
Gateview Campground - 970 641-2337
Blue Mesa Reservoir CO Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Blue Mesa Reservoir
Elk Creek Marina 970 641-0707
Lake Fork Marina 970 641-3048
Pappy's Restaurant 970 641-0403
Fishing lakes in each state.
021225
Blue Mesa Reservoir in CO.
COLORADO
Trout, salmon and perch fishing in southwest CO.
