McReynolds Reservoir is a small, pristine fishing destination in Teller County, Colorado, managed as a controlled-access water body that prioritizes the angling experience over high-volume recreation. Located near the historic mining town of Cripple Creek at roughly 9,500 feet elevation, this reservoir offers fly fishing and lure fishing in a strikingly beautiful mountain setting that visitors describe as unspoiled and serene.
Access to McReynolds Reservoir requires an online reservation costing $20, and the site operates on a limited schedule: Thursday through Sunday only, with the season closing on September 30 each year. These restrictions keep visitor numbers low and help maintain the reservoir's excellent water quality and fish populations. All fishing here is strictly catch and release, with flies and lures only — no bait fishing is permitted. Anglers who follow the regulations report rewarding sessions with healthy fish in clear water.
The scenery at McReynolds Reservoir matches the fishing. Visitors consistently use words like pristine and stunning to describe the landscape, which features pine-covered hillsides, open meadows, and unobstructed mountain views. The controlled access means you rarely encounter crowds, making it a strong choice for anglers who value solitude alongside their sport.
Water levels can fluctuate, and at least one visitor has noted periods when the reservoir ran low enough to discourage fishing. Checking current conditions before making the drive is worthwhile, particularly later in the season when drought conditions may affect water levels across Teller County.
McReynolds Reservoir sits roughly 45 minutes southwest of Colorado Springs via Highway 67 through Victor. The drive itself passes through some of Teller County's most scenic high-country terrain. Facilities at the reservoir are minimal, so bring everything you need for the day including water, food, and sun protection. The elevation means temperatures can drop quickly even in summer, so layered clothing is advisable.
For fly anglers and lure anglers seeking a managed, low-pressure fishing experience in a pristine Colorado mountain setting, McReynolds Reservoir delivers a quality day on the water. The reservation system and limited season create a more intentional experience than most public-access reservoirs in the Pikes Peak region, rewarding those willing to plan ahead with uncrowded banks and healthy fish.