The short answer
Mountain lakes freeze first, usually from December. Front Range reservoirs near Denver freeze late and unevenly, if at all, so most Denver ice anglers drive west or south. Never walk on ice until it is posted safe or you have drilled and measured it yourself.
Ice safety first
- Colorado Parks and Wildlife's guideline is at least 4 inches of clear, solid ice to walk on. White, cloudy or slushy ice is weaker.
- Drill test holes as you walk out, every few steps at first.
- Stay off ice near inlets, outlets, springs and dark spots, where it is thinner.
- Carry ice picks around your neck and a throw rope, and never go alone.
- Early and late season are the most dangerous. When in doubt, stay off.
Where to go
- Evergreen Lake: the closest real ice, about 45 minutes. Only fish it when the town posts it open.
- Georgetown Lake: right off I-70, about an hour. Rainbows and brookies.
- Dillon Reservoir: big water near Silverthorne, trout and kokanee once it locks up.
- Eleven Mile and Spinney Mountain area: South Park reservoirs known for big trout. Check state park rules for each.
A simple setup
A 24 to 30 inch ice rod with light line (4 lb), a small jig tipped with a waxworm or a small soft plastic, and a hand auger or a borrowed power auger. Fish just off the bottom first, then work up. Jig gently, pause, and watch the rod tip closely. Trout often cruise shallower than you'd think, especially near shore drop-offs.
What to bring
- Auger, ice scoop and a sled to drag gear.
- Ice cleats or spikes for your boots.
- A bucket or stool to sit on, and something warm to sit on top of it.
- Layers, a windproof shell, a spare pair of gloves and a thermos.
- Your Colorado fishing license. Check the regulations for each lake before you go.
Questions anglers ask
- How thick does ice need to be to walk on in Colorado?
- Colorado Parks and Wildlife recommends at least 4 inches of clear, solid ice. Cloudy, white or slushy ice is weaker.
- When does ice fishing start near Denver?
- Mountain lakes usually freeze first, from about December. Front Range lakes freeze later and less reliably. Always check posted ice status first.
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