CPW implements public fish salvage at Lake Avery ahead of rehabilitation project

Rachael Gonzales
Northwest Region Public Information Officer
970-773-8587 / [email protected]
Twitter: @CPW_NW CPW implements public fish salvage at Lake Avery ahead of rehabilitation project

MEEKER, Colo. - Effective immediately, Colorado Parks and Wildlife announces a public fish salvage at Lake Avery in preparation for the lake’s rehabilitation project set to begin this summer. 

The salvage, in effect until Nov. 24, 2024, is being implemented to mitigate imminent fish loss. During the salvage all bag limits will be lifted allowing anglers to keep all of the fish they catch utilizing the lawful angling methods currently allowed at the lake. Anglers 16 and older must have a valid 2024 fishing license and all fish must be dead prior to transport away from the lake.

CPW staff will begin slowly lowering water levels in the lake July 1, with an anticipated complete emptying of the lake by the end of the year. As the reservoir is drawn down, anglers should be advised that they will experience changing conditions and a muddy approach to the water. 

With lower water levels, early freezing of the lake's surface is to be expected. However, due to unsafe conditions, ice fishing will be prohibited. Beginning Nov. 25, 2024, public access to the lake will close until the construction on the dam is complete. 

The public salvage was approved by CPW Director Jeff Davis on May 1. This action only pertains to the reservoir property. All existing regulations on surrounding streams above and below the reservoir remain in effect. 

Lake Avery is located approximately 14.5 miles southeast of Meeker, CO on the Oak Ridge State Wildlife Area. CPW is draining the lake to facilitate outlet repairs,which include damage to the outlet pipe and a leaky outlet gate.