Fishing Paonia Reservoir in Gunnison County, Colorado

• Overview

  Paonia Reservoir is a Gunnison County water, Colorado side. It stands 6,516 feet above sea level. At 335 acres this is proper open water rather than a pond. On our Gunnison County list it sits near the top for size. You are 14 miles from Paonia. It is 132 miles to Lakewood, the nearest city. The county line is nowhere near, so one local authority covers the water.

• Where to Fish on Paonia Reservoir

  Depth is unmeasured here, so let the shoreline guide you. Rip-rap along the wall holds fish that the open bank never does. Inflow corners move water, and moving water gathers fish. Species logged across Gunnison County include rainbow trout, brown trout and brook trout. County records show what lives in the area; the local agency holds the water-by-water list. Paonia Reservoir gives up more to patience than to distance.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The year swings from about 18°F in January to roughly 63°F in July. The middle months are generous; the ends are demanding. Ice is part of the season here, ending near mid April. The season between ice runs from about mid April to late November. The first weeks of open water and the last are the ones to plan for. Expect Paonia Reservoir to follow that timing.

• Tackle & Baits

  We have no record of the rules that apply on this bank. You can leave the car about half a mile from the water. Trout here take small spinners, spoons and, where fly water allows, a nymph or dry. Ask in the nearest town if you are unsure. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. The nearest alternative is Williams Creek Lake, 4.2 miles out. Check the position on Paonia Reservoir before loading the car.