Horsetooth Reservoir, nestled in the foothills west of Fort Collins, Colorado, is a prominent recreational hub known for its diverse fishing opportunities. With nearly 20 miles of shoreline, this expansive body of water offers a dynamic environment for anglers. Its topography, featuring shallow coves and rocky structures, creates an ideal habitat for many fish species. Its appeal lies in its accessibility and the promise of a rewarding angling experience.
Horsetooth’s Primary Game Fish
Among the most sought-after species in Horsetooth Reservoir are Walleye and Smallmouth Bass. Walleye are a popular target, found in deeper channels, especially near Inlet Bay Marina. Anglers pursue Walleye using crankbaits, jerk baits, spoons, live bait, or by trolling with bottom-bouncers. While there are consumption advisories for Walleye due to mercury levels, they remain a prized catch for their size and elusive nature.
Smallmouth Bass thrive in the reservoir’s rocky structures and shallow coves, making them a favorite for their spirited fights. These bass are caught using grub baits, jerk baits, crawfish cranks, and rooster tail spinners. The reservoir also holds Largemouth Bass, though less common than their smallmouth counterparts. Both Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass have a minimum size limit of 12 inches for retention, with a daily limit of five total.
Other Popular Sport Fish
Horsetooth Reservoir also offers excellent opportunities for various trout species, including Rainbow, Cutthroat, and Brown Trout. Rainbow Trout are stocked by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, providing consistent angling action, especially in spring and fall. These trout are found near rocky outcroppings and respond well to crankbaits, crawfish cranks, and various lures. Cutthroat Trout, recognizable by their distinctive orange “slashes” under the jaw, are also present, sometimes as “cut-bow” trout hybrids. Brown Trout are less frequently encountered but can offer a rewarding challenge for anglers.
The elusive Tiger Muskie, a sterile hybrid of muskellunge and northern pike, represents a trophy fish in Colorado’s waters. While not as prevalent in Horsetooth as in some other Colorado reservoirs, their presence attracts specialized anglers. Catching these powerful fish requires heavy rods, braided line, and wire leaders, along with techniques like targeting deep, rocky structures or weedlines. Conservation efforts emphasize careful handling and quick release for these large, sensitive fish.
The Reservoir’s Diverse Aquatic Life
Beyond game and sport fish, Horsetooth Reservoir supports a broader array of aquatic life. Yellow Perch are abundant, serving as a forage fish for larger predators and a popular target for anglers, particularly during ice fishing season. These panfish are caught with small jigs, live minnows, worms, and insects. While ice fishing is not permitted on Horsetooth due to fluctuating water levels, perch are caught year-round.
Channel Catfish, characterized by their distinctive barbels and forked tails, inhabit the reservoir’s bottom waters and are caught in warmer months. Common Carp are also present in Horsetooth, known for their strong fight when hooked. Colorado Parks and Wildlife maintains the reservoir’s diverse fish populations through annual stocking programs and by setting regulations for different species. This management ensures the continued health and productivity of Horsetooth Reservoir’s aquatic environment.