Smith Reservoir in Huerfano County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  Smith Reservoir sits in Huerfano County, out in Colorado. It sits at 8,832 feet above sea level. About 9 acres of surface, which puts the far bank inside easy sight. Alamosa East is the closest place, 31 miles off. Alamosa is 33 miles away, with Colorado City at 33 miles. This one is safely inside the county line. The far side sees far fewer people than the near one.

• Where to Fish on Smith Reservoir

  The records we hold are silent on depth, so plan to find it yourself. Draw-down through summer strips the margins, so follow the water out. A reservoir gives you a hard edge, a shelf, and not much else. Species logged across Huerfano County include cutthroat trout, black-spotted cutthroat trout, brook trout, rainbow trout and white sucker. The county list is broader than any single water. Smith Reservoir fishes better once you know its edges.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The year swings from about 21°F in January to roughly 60°F in July. The year splits cleanly: hard water, then open water. Count on hard cover from midwinter, and open water from mid April. Going by climate averages, expect open water from about mid April until roughly late November. The first weeks of open water and the last are the ones to plan for. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to Smith Reservoir.

• Tackle & Baits

  There is no clear statement anywhere on who can fish it. Mapping is blank for access, so scout the approach before committing the car. For the trout, small spinners and a box of nymphs cover both approaches. Ask in the nearest town if you are unsure. Where tickets apply, they are sold in the nearest town rather than on the bank. Should this one be busy, Wilson Reservoir is 3.5 miles off. Check the current arrangement for Smith Reservoir.