Colorado · Fishing
Fishing in Loveland, Colorado
Loveland sits at the eastern edge of the Front Range foothills, and its fishing options reflect that position — still-water fishing across a mix of lakes, ponds, and reservoirs rather than the technical river fishing you'd find higher up in the canyon.
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Loveland sits at the eastern edge of the Front Range foothills, and its fishing options reflect that position — still-water fishing across a mix of lakes, ponds, and reservoirs rather than the technical river fishing you'd find higher up in the canyon. Boyd Lake is the biggest draw, a sizable reservoir on the city's east side with a well-developed state park around it. Lon Hagler Reservoir and Pinewood Reservoir round out the reservoir options, each with a different character and access situation. North Lake Park Pond is the most accessible spot in town, a short walk from parking and a reasonable place to bring kids or anyone new to fishing. All four waters are warmwater or mixed fisheries by nature — think bass, bluegill, walleye, and catfish rather than trout as the primary targets, though stocking schedules can change that seasonally. Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages stocking across these waters, so checking their current stocking report before you go is worth the two minutes it takes. A valid Colorado fishing license is required at all of these locations for anyone 16 and older.
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of fish can I expect to catch at Boyd Lake and the other Loveland reservoirs?
Boyd Lake, Lon Hagler, and Pinewood are all still-water fisheries that support warmwater species including largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, wiper, catfish, and bluegill. Colorado Parks and Wildlife stocks some of these waters with trout periodically, particularly in cooler months, so checking the CPW stocking report for current activity is the most reliable way to know what's in the water before you show up.
Do I need a fishing license, and where do I get one?
Yes, a valid Colorado fishing license is required for anyone 16 or older at all four of these locations. You can buy one online through the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website, through the CPW app, or at local sporting goods retailers in Loveland. Boyd Lake State Park also requires a separate park pass or day-use fee for vehicle entry.
What's the best time of day to fish these waters?
Early morning and the hour or two before sunset are consistently the most productive windows at still-water fisheries like these, especially for bass and walleye. Midday fishing in summer can slow down significantly as water temperatures rise, though catfish tend to be more active after dark if the location allows night fishing.
Is North Lake Park Pond a good option for beginners or families with young kids?
It's probably the most beginner-friendly spot on this list. The pond is small, parking is close, and the banks are easy to fish from without any technical gear or long hikes. It's stocked by CPW and sees regular fishing pressure, so it won't produce trophy fish, but it's a solid place to learn the basics or keep kids engaged.
What gear should I bring for fishing Loveland's lakes and reservoirs?
A medium-action spinning rod in the 6- to 7-foot range handles most situations across these waters. For bass and walleye at Boyd Lake or Lon Hagler, soft plastics, crankbaits, and jigs are reliable choices. If you're targeting stocked trout at North Lake Park Pond or during a stocking event elsewhere, a simple setup with PowerBait or a small spinner works fine. Bring sunscreen and water in summer — Boyd Lake in particular has limited shade along the shoreline.
