Robert Leighton Reservoir, Colorado: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  Robert Leighton Reservoir stands in Montezuma County, Colorado. The bank is 6,168 feet above sea level. Surface area runs to about 3 acres — small enough to read in one session. Cortez at 2.7 miles is the nearest place to stop. Albuquerque is the closest city, 188 miles away. It sits well inside its county, with no border complications.

• Where to Fish on Robert Leighton Reservoir

  Our records hold no depth for this water. Look for where the old bank line still shows under the surface. Levels move with the draw rather than the rain on water like this. Records held for Montezuma County cover bluehead sucker, brook trout and bluegill. The county figures include rivers and lakes alike. Robert Leighton Reservoir gives up its fish to patience rather than distance.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Climate records put July near 71°F and January near 27°F. Seasons here are moderate, and the fishing runs most of the year. It is not guaranteed from one year to the next. November and March are the quiet, comfortable months to be out. Time your trip to Robert Leighton Reservoir by conditions rather than dates.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public sources are silent on who controls the bank. Public mapping marks it as seasonal water rather than permanent. No built facilities appear in mapping around this water. Trout here take small spinners, spoons and, where fly water allows, a nymph or dry. Season dates differ by species, so read the table. Check whether bait restrictions apply before you buy any. Failing this one, try Denny Lake, 1.1 miles away. For Robert Leighton Reservoir in particular, ask before you travel.