Experience world-class fishing in Colorado for free
Bridget O'Rourke
why people get hooked on fishing in Colorado.
Colorado offers a diverse range of fish species to catch, including over 35 species (both warm and cold-water fish) in some of the most scenic bodies of water. Fish anywhere in 6,000 miles of streams and over 1,300 lakes and reservoirs. To find fishing locations, stocking reports and resources, visit cpw.state.co.us/fishing
Colorado now offers a new category of fishable waters (in addition to Gold Medal Waters): Colorado Quality Waters. CPW’s talented team of fish management biologists has identified and nominated the waters based on fish sampling records, creel surveys and professional biological assessments.
“Fishing is a great activity to share with family and friends, and the perfect chance to get outside and enjoy Colorado’s natural resources," said CPW Angler Education Coordinator Andre Egli. "If you are new to fishing, a variety of beginner classes are offered around the state. Classes are available for new anglers, families or seasoned anglers that want to learn a new technique like fly fishing."
Join Colorado’s vibrant fishing community by participating in upcoming CPW fishing classes, events and tournaments listed on the CPW Event Calendar.
Learn more about fishing regulations and license fees in the 2025 Colorado Fishing Brochure (Pesca en Colorado En Español). Subscribe to CPW’s Fishing eNews and Fishing Report for monthly fishing news, stocking reports and fishery surveys.
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.
DISCLAIMER: The Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) website maintains press releases containing historical information that may no longer be accurate. Press releases are dated, which should be noted to determine whether the information provided is current. Please review our current regulations and brochures for up-to-date information.