Jerry Creek Number 1 Reservoir is a small fishing reservoir in Mesa County, located in the high desert landscape of western Colorado near Grand Junction. With a 2.8-star rating, it draws divided opinions from visitors — some praise it as a beautiful, accessible fishing spot while others note that the fishery has declined from its former quality, with stunted fish populations being a recurring concern.
The reservoir operates under catch-and-release-only regulations, a management decision likely aimed at allowing the fish population to recover and grow. Despite the regulation, some anglers report that the fish remain undersized, suggesting that factors beyond harvest pressure — such as nutrient levels, stocking practices, or habitat conditions — may be influencing growth rates. Visitors who enjoyed the reservoir in earlier years note a noticeable change in the quality of the fishery over time.
That said, Jerry Creek Number 1 Reservoir still has its supporters. Several reviewers call it a beautiful place to fish and point to it as a convenient option close to Grand Junction. The reservoir provides an outdoor escape without requiring a long drive into the mountains, making it a practical choice for a quick morning or evening fishing session. The surrounding mesa terrain offers open views and the kind of western Colorado sunsets that make even a slow fishing day worthwhile.
The area around the reservoir is relatively undeveloped. Visitors should bring their own water, food, and supplies, and be prepared for limited shade during summer months when temperatures in the Grand Valley can climb well above 90 degrees. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable fishing conditions and may also yield better activity from the fish.
Jerry Creek Number 1 Reservoir is best approached with calibrated expectations. It offers a scenic, convenient place to cast a line near Grand Junction, but anglers looking for trophy-sized fish or a reliably productive fishery may find the experience underwhelming compared to higher-elevation waters in the region.