Summary: Spinney Mountain Reservoir is a beautiful place that provides an excellent fishing experience for anglers. There are a variety of fish species in the reservoir, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon. The reservoir has become a very popular destination for anglers due to its great fishing opportunities and natural beauty.
1. Location and Access
Spinney Mountain Reservoir is located in South Park, Colorado, approximately 60 miles west of Colorado Springs. The reservoir covers over 2,000 acres and sits at an elevation of 8,000 feet. To reach the reservoir, take US-24 west from Colorado Springs to Lake George. Then, take County Road 92 (Spinney Mountain Road) north to the reservoir.
There are several public access points around the reservoir, including the Spillway Boat Ramp, Witcher’s Cove Boat Ramp, and the South Boat Ramp. All of these access points are open year-round, except for the South Boat Ramp, which is closed during the winter months.
It is recommended to have a four-wheel-drive vehicle to access some of the more remote areas around the reservoir. Visitors should also be aware that there is limited cell phone reception in the area.
2. Fishing Regulations
Spinney Mountain Reservoir is managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife and is subject to certain fishing regulations. Anglers must have a valid Colorado fishing license, and all fishing must be done with artificial flies and lures. Additionally, only one fishing rod may be used per angler.
The daily bag limit for trout is two fish, and all trout must be between 14 and 20 inches long or longer than 22 inches. Kokanee salmon have a daily bag limit of 10 fish, and there is no size limit. There is also a bag limit of two pike, and they must measure at least 24 inches long.
It is important for anglers to familiarize themselves with the fishing regulations before heading out to the reservoir. Violating these regulations can result in fines and other penalties.
3. Fish Species
The reservoir is home to several species of fish, including rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee salmon, northern pike, and yellow perch. The rainbow and brown trout are the most commonly caught fish in the reservoir, with some reaching sizes over 20 inches. Kokanee salmon are also abundant in the reservoir and provide an exciting opportunity for anglers.
The northern pike and yellow perch populations have been established in the reservoir for several decades. Pike are particularly popular among anglers due to their size and fighting ability. These fish can reach weights of over 30 pounds in the reservoir.
Fishing the reservoir can be done from the shore or by boat. Anglers fishing from boats have a significant advantage when it comes to catching fish, as they can access deeper water and cover more area.
4. Best Times and Techniques
Fishing at Spinney Mountain Reservoir can be productive throughout the year, but certain times of the year and certain techniques can increase your chances of success. During the summer months, early morning and late evening tend to be the best times to catch fish. As the weather cools in the fall, the fish become more active throughout the day.
When it comes to techniques, fly fishing is the most popular method used by anglers. Streamers, nymphs, and dry flies can all be effective depending on the time of year and the location of the fish. Trolling with lures or using bait can also be productive, especially for targeting kokanee salmon and pike.
It is important to pay attention to the weather patterns and water conditions when fishing at Spinney Mountain Reservoir. Cloudy days and windy conditions can often lead to better fishing. Additionally, fishing near drop-offs and underwater structure can increase your chances of catching fish.
5. Other Activities
While the main activity at Spinney Mountain Reservoir is fishing, there are several other activities that visitors can enjoy. Boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular activities on the water, and there are several hiking and biking trails nearby.
Visitors should also take some time to explore the surrounding area. The reservoir is located in a beautiful area with stunning mountain views. Nearby attractions include the Eleven Mile Reservoir and the historic town of Fairplay.
Finally, visitors should come prepared for their trip to Spinney Mountain Reservoir. There are no services available at the reservoir, so visitors should bring plenty of food, water, and supplies for their trip.
Conclusion:
Spinney Mountain Reservoir provides an excellent fishing experience for anglers and is home to a variety of fish species. The reservoir can be accessed through several public access points, and visitors should familiarize themselves with the fishing regulations before heading out on the water. With its natural beauty and great fishing opportunities, Spinney Mountain Reservoir has become a very popular destination for anglers in Colorado.
Whether you prefer fly fishing or trolling with lures, there are plenty of ways to catch fish at Spinney Mountain Reservoir. And if fishing isn’t your thing, there are several other activities to enjoy in the area. So pack your bags and head out to Spinney Mountain Reservoir for a memorable outdoor adventure.
