Barrett Reservoir, Colorado: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  Look for Barrett Reservoir in the Larimer County part of Colorado. Country round the bank runs to mixed woodland. At roughly 4 acres, the whole thing is within casting reach of a single walk. It is a small entry by Larimer County standards. Wellington sits 5.3 miles from the bank. Fort Collins sits 13 miles out, and it is the nearest city worth the name. It lies deep inside the county rather than near an edge.

• Where to Fish on Barrett Reservoir

  Depth is unmeasured here, so let the shoreline guide you. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. The arms fish better than the open middle whenever the water is up. Across Larimer County, recorded fish include black-spotted cutthroat trout, brook trout, white sucker and rainbow trout. Records at this level tell you what is in the area. Fish Barrett Reservoir where the bottom changes rather than where it looks deep.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The seasonal spread runs 29°F to 70°F. Some winters cap it and some do not. In a normal year the cover is thin and short-lived. February into May fishes hardest as the water warms. Barrett Reservoir runs to its own calendar within the local pattern. Warm rain lifts activity; cold rain flattens it.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public sources are silent on who controls the bank. No built facilities appear in mapping around this water. Light line and small metal for the trout; a fly rod earns its place on calm evenings. Where access is informal, keep it that way by behaving. Fishing rules and camping rules are set separately here. Failing this one, try Mountain Supply Reservoir Number 7, 0.4 miles away. Rules at Barrett Reservoir are worth checking on the day.