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Colorado · Fishing
Mesa, Colorado sits in a quieter corner of the Western Slope, and its fishing scene reflects that — small reservoirs, limited crowds, and the kind of unhurried pace that makes a half-day on the water feel worthwhile.
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Mesa, Colorado sits in a quieter corner of the Western Slope, and its fishing scene reflects that — small reservoirs, limited crowds, and the kind of unhurried pace that makes a half-day on the water feel worthwhile. The fishable waters around Mesa are all stillwater: Anderson Reservoir Number 1, Bolen Reservoir, and Spring Creek Reservoir Number 1 are the main lake options, and Moose Manor Cabin offers lake fishing access as well, making it a practical base if you want to stay close to the water. These are reservoir fisheries, not tailwaters or gold-medal streams, so set expectations accordingly — you're looking at a relaxed, accessible experience rather than a technical fly-fishing destination. That said, reservoir fishing in this part of Colorado can be genuinely productive, especially in spring and early fall when water temperatures are favorable and fish are actively feeding near the surface. If you're driving out from Grand Junction or passing through on a longer Western Slope trip, the Mesa reservoirs are worth building into the itinerary, particularly if you want water to yourself.
All four listings in the Mesa area are lake or reservoir fishing — Anderson Reservoir Number 1, Bolen Reservoir, Spring Creek Reservoir Number 1, and the access through Moose Manor Cabin. There are no river or stream listings in this area, so if you're specifically after moving water, you'll need to look at nearby drainages outside of Mesa proper.
A medium-action spinning rod handles most reservoir situations well here. Bring a selection of small spinners, PowerBait, and a few jigs — standard stillwater setups that work across Colorado's smaller reservoirs. A float tube or small inflatable can expand your range on these waters, though shore fishing is typically accessible.
Moose Manor Cabin
~3 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Hotchkiss National Fish Hatchery
~47 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Grand Mesa
~13 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Gunnison River - Black Canyon
~1h 10m drive
Expert
Jumbo Campground
~3 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Roan Plateau - JQS Creek Cross
~1h 9m drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Black Bear Cabin at Mesa Lakes
~4 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Island Lake Campground
~11 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Aspen Leaf Cabin (Uncompahgre National Forest, Co)
~1h 9m drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Oak Cabin
~1h 9m drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Anderson Reservoir Number 1
~2 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Griffith Lake
~7 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Spring (late April through June) and early fall (September through October) tend to be the most productive windows for Colorado reservoir fishing. Summer midday heat pushes fish deeper and slows surface activity, so if you're visiting in July or August, plan to be on the water at first light or in the evening.
Yes, a valid Colorado fishing license is required for anyone 16 or older. You can purchase one online through Colorado Parks and Wildlife before your trip. Check CPW's current regulations for any specific rules that apply to individual reservoirs, including possession limits and gear restrictions.
It's listed specifically with lake fishing access, which makes it a convenient option if you want to stay on-site rather than driving in each day. For a multi-day trip targeting the Mesa reservoirs, having lodging close to the water simplifies the logistics considerably.
