Fishing Grand Lake, Colorado
Popular Fish Species Grand Lake, CO
Lake Trout Fishing
Year round, fishing for lake trout in Grand Lake Colorado is a draw for anglers wishing to catch a large trout. These tough fighting lakers can be caught from as shallow as 15 to 30 feet in Spring and Fall, to as deep as 150 feet or more during Summer and Winter. It is a monumental help to use fish finders, or other electronics to help in locating these roaming schools of lake trout. They feed on baitfish, so jigs rigged to imitate their prey often work well straight down under the boat. Trolling with numerous set-ups can also produce good catches. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing for big lake trout with spoons can deliver some great catches.
Rainbow Trout Fishing
This year, fishing for rainbow trout in Grand Lake continues to be very productive for local anglers. 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. 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. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing.
Kokanee Salmon Fishing
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. As one of the better kokanee fishing lakes in Colorado, Grand Lake delivers plenty of fish above normal averages. 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.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for rainbow, brown, lake, cutthroat and brook trout, plus kokanee salmon at Grand Lake in Colorado.
Grand Lake Fishing Video
With over 500 surface acre feet and 4 1/2 miles of shoreline, Grand Lake is the largest natural lake in CO. It is wrapped on the north and east by the town of Grand Lake, in north-central CO. Fishing enthusiasts can fish for trout and salmon, from the shore, from a boat or go ice fishing in winter once the ice is safe.
Grand Lake, located in the heart of Colorado, is a picturesque destination renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities. The lake is a haven for anglers seeking a diverse range of fish species. Rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout, kokanee salmon, and whitefish are just a few of the species that inhabit the pristine waters of Grand Lake. Whether you prefer casting from the shoreline, fly fishing in the nearby rivers, or venturing out on a boat, Grand Lake offers a variety of fishing experiences to suit every angler's preferences.
Grand Lake, with its exceptional fishing, scenic boating opportunities, and idyllic camping options, offers a perfect retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're an avid angler, a boating enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful camping getaway, Grand Lake provides a stunning natural setting to indulge in your favorite activities and create lasting memories in the heart of Colorado's wilderness.
The surrounding area offers a wide variety of lodging, dining, shopping and services. A marina plus a couple boat launch ramps serve the boating public during Spring through early Fall. Several area campgrounds are just minutes from the lake.
Fish Species in Grand Lake, CO
Grand Lake Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rentals: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Concessions: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating on Grand Lake is a popular activity, as the expansive body of water provides ample space for watercraft of all kinds. Visitors can bring their own boats or rent them from the marina, allowing them to explore the lake's scenic beauty and enjoy a day on the water. Boaters can cruise along the calm surface, take in the breathtaking mountain views, or engage in water sports such as water skiing or tubing. Grand Lake's pristine waters and stunning surroundings create a tranquil atmosphere for boating enthusiasts.
Fishing Boat Rentals
Headwaters Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats, runabouts and pontoons
970 627-5031
Grand Lake Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats, kayaks and pontoon boats
970 627-9273
Marinas
Headwaters Marina
1030 Lake Ave
Grand Lake, CO 80447
970 627-5031
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Public Boat Launch
Located in the southeast side of the lake, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with docks, and gravel parking.
Fishing Guides On Grand Lake
Kirks Flyshop Fishing Guides - 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.
Camping at Grand Lake is a delightful way to fully immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the area. The lake offers a range of camping options, from designated campgrounds to backcountry camping in the nearby Rocky Mountain National Park. Whether you choose to camp near the lake or venture into the park's wilderness, you'll have the opportunity to wake up to stunning views, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and experience the peacefulness of nature. The campgrounds provide various amenities, including picnic areas, restrooms, and fire pits, ensuring a comfortable camping experience.
Closest Campgrounds & RV Parks
Elk Creek Campground & RV Park - 970 627-8502
Summerland Park Campground
Green Ridge Campground - 970 887-4100
Grand Lake CO Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Grand Lake
Town Of Grand Lake
1026 Park Avenue
Grand Lake, CO 80447-0099
970 627-3435
Fishing lakes in each state.
071024
Grand Lake in CO.
COLORADO
Salmon and trout fishing in north-central CO.