Last updated: June 24, 2024
Thing to Do
Fishing at Curecanti
NPS/Kat Connelly
Populations of brown, brook, lake (Mackinaw), and rainbow trout are plentiful in Blue Mesa Reservoir. Other fish species in the park include yellow perch, sculpin, dace, and sticklebacks. Fishing success will vary based on season.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife supplies a large number of the eggs needed to supply hatcheries and sustain Kokanee populations in Blue Mesa, other reservoirs and lakes in the state. Research indicates that a large Lake trout population in Blue Mesa Reservoir is decreasing Kokanee Salmon fishing and egg production. For more information about this current issue and actions being taken, please visit the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website.
Regulations
All Colorado State fishing regulations apply within Curecanti National Recreation Area. Please refer to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Fishing Regulations.
- A valid Colorado fishing license is required for people 16 and older. Children under 16 do not need a license and can take full bag and possession limits.
- All fish that are not kept as part of your bag limit must be returned to the water immediately.
- Check the Colorado State Fishing Regulations for any special restrictions or closures that may be in effect, especially during the rainbow trout spawn.
- Taking Kokanee salmon is prohibited in the Gunnison River east of the Lake City Bridge from August 1 to October 31. Kokanee can be snagged from:
- Blue Mesa Reservoir: November 1 to December 31
- Morrow Point Reservoir: September 1 to December 31
- Crystal Reservoir: September 1 to December 31
Closed Waters
Fishing is not permitted in the following areas:
- From Blue Mesa Dam downstream 225 yards.
- From Morrow Point Dam downstream 130 yards.
- From Crystal Dam downstream 200 yards.
Blue Mesa Specific Regulations
Lake trout
- No bag or possession limit for lake trout.
- Only one (1) lake trout longer than 32" may be taken per day.
Kokanee salmon
- Daily bag limit: 5
- Possession limit: 10
Upper Gunnison Basin Specific Regulations
(between U.S. 50 Bridge and Blue Mesa Reservoir - applies to Neversink, Cooper Ranch, Cooper Ranch West, Beaver Creek, Wilson's Landing, and east of Lake City Bridge)
- No taking of Kokanee salmon from August 1 to October 31.
- Snagging Kokanee salmon permitted from November 1 to December 31.
East Portal
The Gunnison River from 200 yards downstream of Crystal Dam all the way through Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park to the North Fork is designated Gold Medal & Wild Trout Water. This designation is given to the lakes and streams of Colorado that offer the greatest potentential for trophy trout fishing. Special regulations exist:
- Only artificial flies or lures with one hook that has a common shank with a single double or treble hook may be used for angling in park waters open to fishing.
- The use of lead sinkers, or other lead fishing materials, is strongly discouraged.
- Bait or worms are prohibited.
- All Rainbow trout are catch and release only. All other fish can be retained at the possession limit.
- A Colorado fishing license is required.
Details
Activity
Fishing
Age(s)
A valid Colorado fishing license is required for people 16 and older. Children under 16 do not need a license and can take full bag and possession limits.
Pets Allowed
Yes with Restrictions
Pets on leash are permitted along riverbanks and beaches, and should wear a life jacket on board any boats. Pets are not allowed on marinas or docks, except for direct travel to and from a boat.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Curecanti National Recreation Area
Fishing is allowed along the Gunnison River and all three reservoirs that make up Curecanti National Recreation Area.
Reservations
No
Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Time of Day
Day, Dawn, Dusk
Accessibility Information
Most fishing locations are along the shoreline with rocky, sandy, or uneven surfaces. Fishing from a boat may be more accessible than along the edges of the reservoir or Gunnison River.