Williams Reservoir, Colorado: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  Look for Williams Reservoir in Montrose County, Colorado. The surroundings are farm and woodlot. At roughly 6 acres, the whole thing is within casting reach of a single walk. For a base, Mountain Village sits 31 miles out. Further out sit Telluride (33 miles) and Montrose (33 miles). Two sets of local rules meet not far from this water.

• Where to Fish on Williams Reservoir

  Depth figures are not published for this one. The arms fish better than the open middle whenever the water is up. Inflow corners move water, and moving water gathers fish. Across Montrose County, recorded fish include rainbow trout, flannelmouth sucker, brown trout and white sucker. County records show the wider picture rather than this one place. The shape of Williams Reservoir decides where the fish sit.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Seasonal averages run from 26°F in January up to 70°F in July. The season stretches long at both ends here. In milder years the edges alone go, and the middle never sets. March through May is the strongest run, with October and November a second stretch. The season on Williams Reservoir follows the weather closely.

• Tackle & Baits

  Whether you may fish here is not something records settle. Mapping records no facilities at all near this water. Light line and small metal for the trout; a fly rod earns its place on calm evenings. Take the rules with you rather than trusting memory. Check whether bait restrictions apply before you buy any. Failing this one, try Palmers Lake, 3.4 miles away. What applies at Williams Reservoir may have changed since it was mapped.