Saguache Reservoir, Colorado: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  Saguache Reservoir sits in Saguache County, out in Colorado. It stands 7,740 feet above sea level. About 12 acres of surface, which puts the far bank inside easy sight. Center lies 24 miles from the water. Then Salida, 31 miles, and Del Norte, 32 miles. Others worth noting: 10 miles out stands Davey Lake, Harrence Lake 11 miles away, 11 miles out stands Trites Lake, Island Lake 11 miles away and 11 miles out stands Johnson Lake. The nearest boundary is well away, so one set of rules covers the water.

• Where to Fish on Saguache Reservoir

  No depth figure appears in our records, so the bank has to tell you. 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. Species logged across Saguache County include brown trout, white sucker, brook trout and black-spotted cutthroat trout. Read it as a county summary, not a water-by-water list. Saguache Reservoir responds to conditions more than to tactics.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Expect July near 62°F and January near 19°F on the long-run figures. A hard winter is normal, and the thaw brings a strong few weeks. Hard water holds through the cold months, breaking up near mid April. Climate figures give an open season running mid April to late November. May into June fishes hardest, and September gives a second good stretch before the lid returns. The season on Saguache Reservoir follows the weather closely.

• Tackle & Baits

  Access is not recorded for this water. This one is mapped as intermittent, so a wasted trip is a real risk in a dry year. The nearest car park we can see is half a mile out, so expect a walk with your gear. 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. Davey Lake sits 10 miles off and takes the overflow. Check the position on Saguache Reservoir before loading the car.