Avid anglers know that Colorado is an excellent place to fish for trout. This is especially true in Grand County, where over a thousand miles of streams and rivers are waiting to be explored! Travel to Winter Park or the town of Fraser and enjoy wading, boating, ice fishing or casting from the shore. The options are endless in nearly every season! Here are some of our favorite Winter Park fishing spots to visit.
Are you searching for more fun things to do in Winter Park, Colorado? Contact our Guets Services Team to help plan your Winter Park fishing excursions. Plus, we can provide recommendations for places to dine, shop and explore during your stay.
Where to Experience Winter Park Fishing
1. Fraser River
The Fraser River is one of the top fishing spots in the region. It's the first main tributary of the Colorado River and is fairly flat, with riffles, runs and tailouts connected to deep pools. A completely wild fishery, the river is home to some big fish that average 12 to 15 inches. Public access is available along the Fraser Canyon and right behind the Safeway supermarket in Fraser.
2. Granby Ranch
Another great place to go fishing near Winter Park is Granby Ranch. This resort boasts a gold-medal tributary on three private miles of the Fraser River. Here, anglers can catch brown, rainbow and cutthroat trout in a scenic and serene setting. Fishing is free for guests of the resort, and fisherman staying elsewhere must pay a rod fee at Headwaters Golf Course pro shop. Guided fishing charters are also available.
3. Vasquez Creek
For anglers seeking an intimate, small-stream fishing experience, Vasquez Creek is an ideal destination. This creek provides a nice escape from the crowds and offers opportunities to catch various species of trout depending on how far upriver you are. Keep in mind that the South Fork of Upper Vasquez Creek and Little Vasquez Creek are fly/lure only; all cutthroat must be released.
Local Tip: Check out Muddy Creek, Willow Creek or St. Louis Creek for even more fly-fishing fun!
4. Lake Granby
Lake Granby is the third largest body of water in Colorado and is one of the best fishing areas near Winter Park. The lake offers 40 miles of pristine shoreline as well as two sister lakes: Grand Lake and Shadow Mountain Lake. Best of all, it's continually stocked with trout and kokanee salmon, keeping anglers busy all season long, Lake Granby, Grand Lake and Shadow Mountain Lake offer some of the best fishing in Grand County and are known for their trophy-worthy trout. Feel free to rent a pontoon or sign up for a guided fishing tour at Beacon Landing Marina. Rod rentals, equipment, supplies and boat rentals are also available at other marinas around the lakes including Trail Ridge Marina and Highland Marina.
In the winter, anglers can try their hand at ice fishing on all three lakes once the waters freeze over. The Three Lakes Ice Fishing Contest takes place annually at these lakes, attracting hundreds of anglers as well as tourists.
Winter Park Fishing Supply Vendors
Offering Colorado fly fishing trips year round, 5280 Angler is passionate about service and wild about fish. Our team of trusted professional fly fishing guides are committed to offering enjoyable, client-centered, Colorado fishing trips. We provide access to a wide range of public and private waters. Whether you are a veteran angler or haven't yet held a fly rod, our guides have the knowledge, skill, equipment and passion to serve you.
Winter Park Flyfisher
Winter Park Flyfisher sells name-brands of gear, fishing supplies and more. The store also features a fly shop for anglers to practice their fly patterns. Winter Park Flyfisher offers guided fishing tours in both private and public waters, with a variety of trip options available to meet your needs. Knowledgeable staff can help answer questions and provide fishing information about the area.
Colorado Fishing License and Regulations
Anyone age 16 years or older must purchase a fishing license to fish or take fish from Colorado waters. Those under 16 can take a full bag and possession limit without a license. Colorado residents age 64 and older can purchase a fishing license for $1. Everyone, including youth, are required to have a second-rod stamp if fishing with a second line. One-day fishing license are available for residents and non-residents. Colorado fishing licenses can be purchased online or in-person at an agent.
Colorado has statewide bag and possession limits for different species. Some waters have more restrictive limits, and regulations should be checked in advance. See the Colorado Fishing Regulations Brochure for more information.
Make Your Reservations with StayWinterPark
Of course, the key to planning an unforgettable Winter Park fishing trip is to find the right lodging. That's where StayWinterPark comes in! Our vacation rentals have everything you need to unwind after a long day on the water. Whether you choose to stay in a condo or private home, you'll find that our amenities and service are second to none.
Not sure which property to book? Consider Yukon Lane . It's located near the heart of downtown Winter Park and features beautiful mountain views. Other highlights include a spacious main room with large open floor plan, a unique gas fireplace, and large windows that allow the sun to shine in. Yukon Lane is perfect for families, couples, and anglers of all ages! Check our availability and book your stay today.
