Colorado Parks and Wildlife approves fish salvage for Antero Reservoir
Kara Van Hoose
April 21, 2026
Colorado Parks and Wildlife approves 2026 fish salvage for Antero Reservoir
PARK COUNTY, Colo. — In order to minimize imminent fish loss due to Denver Water’s planned reservoir drawdown, Colorado Parks and Wildlife has authorized an emergency public fish salvage for Antero Reservoir in Park County. Effective immediately, all bag and possession limits for all fish species will be lifted through sunset on May 13, after which Denver Water will close public access to the property. All other regulations, including a valid Colorado fishing license and legal methods of take, will be enforced. Motorized boating and commercialized fishing will not be allowed. Hand-launched vessels and shoreline angling are permitted.
“Colorado Parks and Wildlife appreciates the public’s help in harvesting fish from Antero and utilizing those resources as much as possible,” said Kyle Battige, CPW Senior Aquatic Biologist. “We are currently evaluating the feasibility of CPW-led salvage efforts and hope to rebuild into a high quality fishery once the reservoir is filled in the future.”
Antero Reservoir is positive for New Zealand mudsnails, an invasive aquatic nuisance species. They are small and easily hidden in mud on angling equipment. New Zealand mudsnails can survive out of water for up to 50 days. Anglers are urged to clean, drain and dry all of their gear before using it in another body of water.
The water, land and recreation at Antero Reservoir are managed by Denver Water. Questions regarding the drawdown, timeline or public access, can be directed to Denver Water.
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PHOTO CUTLINES:
Left: Antero Reservoir on April 21, 2026. Recreation, water and land is managed by Denver Water.
Right: Sign for Antero Reservoir on April 21, 2026.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is an enterprise agency, relying primarily on license sales, state parks fees and registration fees to support its operations, including: 43 state parks and more than 350 wildlife areas covering approximately 900,000 acres, management of fishing and hunting, wildlife watching, camping, motorized and non-motorized trails, boating and outdoor education. CPW's work contributes approximately $6 billion in total economic impact annually throughout Colorado.
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