Spinney Mountain Reservoir

Spinney Mountain Reservoir sits in the high plains of Park County, surrounded by open rangeland where bison and wild donkeys roam freely along the shoreline. The reservoir has earned a reputation as one of Colorado's premier trophy trout and northern pike fisheries, drawing anglers from across the state who come prepared for its famously unpredictable weather and challenging conditions.

Fishing at Spinney Mountain Reservoir is restricted to flies and lures only, making it a destination that attracts experienced anglers looking for quality over quantity. The reservoir holds large rainbow trout regularly exceeding 20 inches, along with a healthy population of northern pike and the occasional tiger muskie. Shore fishing can be difficult here since productive water often requires wading waist-deep or accessing deeper sections by boat. Anglers who bring motorized boats tend to have the best results, with two boat ramps available for launching. The pike population is aggressive and will hit a variety of lures, while trout fishing rewards those willing to experiment with different colors and presentations throughout the day.

Spinney Mountain Reservoir is managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife as a Gold Medal water and operates seasonally from spring through fall, closing once ice forms. Entry costs $7 to $9 per vehicle depending on the season. The surrounding landscape is strikingly beautiful with pelicans, bison, and other wildlife visible from the shore, making it worthwhile even on slow fishing days. Visitors should plan for wind, afternoon thunderstorms, and even hail, as weather changes rapidly at this elevation. The nearby Chaparral General Store is a useful stop for local fishing intel and snacks after a day on the water. While some anglers feel the fishing pressure has increased and the trophy fish are harder to find than in years past, Spinney Mountain Reservoir remains a bucket-list destination for Colorado fly fishing and lure fishing enthusiasts who appreciate wild scenery and the challenge of landing big fish in unpredictable conditions.