Colorado · Fishing
Fishing in Wellington, Colorado
Wellington sits in northern Larimer County where the plains start to flatten out toward Wyoming, and the fishing here is almost entirely reservoir and lake-based — which suits a lot of anglers just fine.
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Wellington sits in northern Larimer County where the plains start to flatten out toward Wyoming, and the fishing here is almost entirely reservoir and lake-based — which suits a lot of anglers just fine. The area's stillwater options include Bee Lake, Grothe Reservoir, Boxelder Reservoir Number Two, Wasson Reservoir, and Clark Reservoir, giving you a handful of distinct spots within a short drive of town. These are working-class fisheries: not destination trophy waters, but reliable places to spend a morning with a rod without fighting crowds or driving an hour into the mountains. Expect warm-water and cold-water species typical of northeastern Colorado reservoirs — bass, bluegill, catfish, and trout depending on the water and the time of year. Wind is a real factor on exposed plains reservoirs, so early mornings before it picks up are generally your best window. Access and amenities vary by site, so it's worth checking Colorado Parks and Wildlife's website before you load the truck, especially for parking, boat ramp availability, and whether a state fishing license is required at a given location (it almost certainly is).
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Colorado fishing license to fish these reservoirs?
Yes. Any angler 16 or older needs a valid Colorado fishing license to fish waters like Bee Lake, Grothe Reservoir, Wasson Reservoir, and the others in this area. You can purchase one online through Colorado Parks and Wildlife or at local sporting goods retailers. Some reservoirs may also have additional access fees or permits, so check the specific site before you go.
What species can I realistically expect to catch around Wellington?
Northern Colorado plains reservoirs typically hold largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, and yellow perch. Some waters receive seasonal trout stocking from Colorado Parks and Wildlife, which makes them productive in spring and fall when water temperatures are cooler. None of the listed waters are designated gold medal or wild trout fisheries, so manage expectations accordingly — these are solid community fisheries, not trophy destinations.
When is the best time of day to fish these lakes?
Early morning is consistently the most productive window, both because fish are more active in low light and because northeastern Colorado wind tends to build through the afternoon and can make casting and boat control difficult on open reservoirs. Late evening is a secondary good window in summer. Midday fishing in July and August is generally slow and uncomfortable.
Can I launch a boat at these reservoirs?
Boat ramp availability varies by location. Some smaller reservoirs like Bee Lake and Wasson Reservoir may only accommodate hand-launched craft such as kayaks, canoes, or float tubes. Larger reservoirs in the area are more likely to have improved ramps, but confirm current conditions with Colorado Parks and Wildlife or Larimer County before hauling a trailer out there.
What gear setup makes sense for a first trip to one of these waters?
A medium-action spinning rod in the 6- to 7-foot range covers most situations you'll encounter on these reservoirs. For bass and panfish, small jigs, soft plastics, and inline spinners work well. If you're targeting catfish, bring a heavier setup with cut bait or prepared stink bait and fish the bottom near deeper structure. For stocked trout, PowerBait fished under a bobber near the surface is a reliable starting point.
