Hayden Lake near Boulder: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Hayden Lake sits in Boulder County, out in Colorado. Land around it is farm and woodlot. Boulder lies 2.4 miles from the water. The nearest city of size is Boulder, 2.5 miles away. Also worth knowing: Sale Lake 1 mile off, 1.9 miles out stands Leggett Reservoir, Sixmile Reservoir 2.2 miles off, 2.4 miles out stands Leggett and Hillcrest Reservoir and Davis Reservoir Number 1 2.5 miles off. It lies deep inside the county rather than near an edge.

• Where to Fish on Hayden Lake

  Open data we checked carries no depth for this water. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Rip-rap along the wall holds fish that the open bank never does. Records held for Boulder County cover black-spotted cutthroat trout, brook trout and brown trout. Take it as the county picture rather than a promise for this water. On Hayden Lake the first feature you find is usually worth a session.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The seasonal spread runs 30°F to 72°F. In milder years the surface never sets. Hard water here is never dependable, so check for yourself before stepping out. June to September is hot work, so the first and last hours are what count. Time your trip to Hayden Lake by conditions rather than dates.

• Tackle & Baits

  We have no record of the rules that apply on this bank. Park at Cottonwood Trailhead, half a mile from the water. There are picnic tables recorded roughly half a mile off. Public toilets are recorded roughly half a mile off. Trout here take small spinners, spoons and, where fly water allows, a nymph or dry. A phone call first saves an afternoon. Some water is controlled locally without a sign saying so. Sale Lake sits 1 mile off and takes the overflow. For Hayden Lake, the notice at the access point is the final word.