Pothole Reservoir Number 1 sits in the high country of Gunnison County, a small backcountry reservoir that draws anglers looking for solitude and big trout away from the crowds. Located off the beaten path near the Gunnison area at roughly 38.9 degrees north latitude, this reservoir rewards those willing to seek it out with productive fishing and sweeping mountain views that remind visitors why Gunnison County remains one of Colorado's most treasured outdoor regions.
Fishing is the primary draw at Pothole Reservoir Number 1. Anglers report catching large trout here, with some seasons producing the best catches visitors have landed anywhere in Colorado. Spring and early summer tend to be the prime fishing windows, when water temperatures rise enough to trigger active feeding but before midsummer algae and moss growth thicken along the shallows. Shore fishing is the standard approach, and the reservoir's compact size means most of the water is castable from the bank. Fly fishing and spin casting both produce results, though patience is required — some trips yield aggressive bites while others come up empty. The reservoir can develop mossy conditions by late summer, which affects both casting and fish behavior.
Access to Pothole Reservoir Number 1 is best suited for high-clearance vehicles or side-by-sides, as the approach roads are unpaved and can be rough. There are no developed facilities at the reservoir — no restrooms, no boat ramp, no picnic tables, and no potable water. Visitors should pack in everything they need and pack out all trash, as litter has been an issue reported by some visitors. This is a carry-in, carry-out destination in every sense.
The surrounding Gunnison County landscape offers excellent hiking, wildlife viewing, and bird watching opportunities. The open terrain and high-altitude setting make this area popular with bird watchers scanning for raptors and mountain species. Camping in the general area is possible on nearby public land, though the reservoir itself does not have designated campsites. Cell service is unreliable to nonexistent, so plan accordingly. Pothole Reservoir Number 1 is best suited for self-sufficient anglers and outdoor enthusiasts who value peace, quiet, and the chance to land a trophy trout in a setting that feels entirely their own.