Sheriff Reservoir, Colorado: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  Sheriff Reservoir lies within the bounds of Routt County, Colorado. This is pine and birch ground. The water covers some 36 acres, so pick a bank rather than trying to cover it all. The whole outline is near 1.1 miles, and most of it is walkable. It ranks high for size among our Routt County listings. Hayden sits 25 miles from the bank. After that come Steamboat Springs at 28 miles and Craig at 33 miles. There is no boundary nearby to worry about.

• Where to Fish on Sheriff Reservoir

  There is no recorded depth, so work from what you can see. Rip-rap along the wall holds fish that the open bank never does. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. Reported across Routt County: brook trout, cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, mountain whitefish and mountain sucker. The list covers the county rather than this water alone, so treat it as a guide. At Sheriff Reservoir light and wind decide more than tackle does.

• Seasonal Patterns

  In an average year July sits at 52°F and February at 18°F. Seasons are distinct, and each one fishes differently. Once it clears, about late May, the fishing comes on quickly. Averages place the thaw at late May and the freeze at mid November. The first weeks of open water and the last are the ones to plan for. At Sheriff Reservoir the season follows that pattern closely.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing in our records says who may fish here. The nearest car park is half a mile from the water. You can camp about half a mile away, going by the mapping. Trout here take small spinners, spoons and, where fly water allows, a nymph or dry. A phone call first saves an afternoon. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. For a change of water, Killarney Reservoir is 2.1 miles distant. Confirm access to Sheriff Reservoir locally before you travel.