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Colorado · Fishing
Nathrop sits in the upper Arkansas River valley at the foot of the Sawatch Range, and the fishing options within reach are more varied than most people expect. The area mixes still-water lake fishing with moving-water river fishing, giving you real choices depending on what you're after.
7 spotsUpdated dailyFree to access
View on mapFishing · 7 spots
Nathrop sits in the upper Arkansas River valley at the foot of the Sawatch Range, and the fishing options within reach are more varied than most people expect. The area mixes still-water lake fishing with moving-water river fishing, giving you real choices depending on what you're after. Grizzly Lake, Pomeroy Lake, Baldwin Lake, Spout Lake, and Chalk Lake Fishing Site cover the lake side of things, while Chalk Lake and Cascade offer river and stream fishing for anglers who prefer working current. The elevation here is significant — you're well above 8,000 feet in most of these spots — so water temperatures stay cold through much of the year, which keeps fish active even in summer when lower-elevation fisheries slow down. Access points vary by site, so it's worth checking Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations before you go, particularly around licensing and any site-specific rules. This is not a destination that requires a guide or specialized gear to enjoy, but knowing which water you're heading to and what it holds will save you a wasted morning.
You have both lake fishing and river fishing within the area. The lake options include Grizzly Lake, Pomeroy Lake, Baldwin Lake, Spout Lake, and Chalk Lake Fishing Site. For moving water, Chalk Lake and Cascade offer river fishing. Having both types nearby means you can adjust your plan based on conditions or personal preference.
Late spring through early fall is the most productive window, roughly May through September. Ice-out on the higher lakes typically happens in May or June depending on the winter snowpack. Summer mornings and evenings are your best bets for active fish, since midday sun at altitude can push fish deeper or slow feeding.
Cascade
~5 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Angel Of Shavano Group
~16 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Ohaver Lake
~35 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Taylor River - Almont to Taylor Park
~51 min drive
Expert
Chalk Lake
~6 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Lakeview Gunnison
~29 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Collegiate Peaks
~13 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Lottis Creek Campground
~32 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Bassam Guard Station
~33 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Lodgepole (Taylor River Canyon near Gunnison, COLORADO)
~34 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Brewery Creek Guard Station
~50 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Crescent Mining Camp
~36 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CO.
Yes. A valid Colorado fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older at all of these locations. You can purchase one through Colorado Parks and Wildlife online or at local sporting goods retailers. Check CPW's current regulations for any site-specific rules, particularly at designated fishing sites like Chalk Lake Fishing Site.
A light to medium spinning setup works well for most of the lakes in this area. Small spinners, PowerBait, and worms are reliable producers at stocked lakes. Bring layers regardless of the forecast — temperatures at elevation can drop quickly, especially in the morning and after afternoon thunderstorms.
The lake fishing sites, particularly Chalk Lake Fishing Site, are generally accessible and well-suited for beginners and younger anglers. Still water is more forgiving than river fishing for those learning technique. The river sites at Chalk Lake and Cascade require more skill in reading current and presenting a fly or lure effectively.
