Top 3 Places to Catch Bass and Trout in Fort Collins.

With winter coming to a close, and the ice beginning to melt off the tops of our lakes, the fishing season is once again upon us. Last spring, we gave you a look at three different spots to fish around the city, a little what they look like and what you will find while there.

This year we will bring three more spots in or near Fort Collins, that will be good to fish in the upcoming spring. We will also provide information on what fish you’ll find, and what works well in these lakes from a member of the Legendary baits pro fishing staff.

Riverbend Ponds Natural Area:

The Riverbend Ponds Natural Area located just south of the intersection of Mulberry and Timberline is coming in first on these years list of good lakes to fish in Fort Collins. The area features several ponds from which to fish, as well is divided in the middle by the Poudre River offering more space for recreational activity.

The ponds are home to several different species of fish, however the most common ones you will find are brown trout, rainbow trout and largemouth bass.

“For these ponds I recommend sticking to your top water lures given the murkiness of the water and the amount of gunk across the surface,” said Trevor Hanson. “The top water stuff will help attract the most largemouth bass given their desire to eat near the surface.”

Prospect Ponds Natural Area:

This location, like Riverbend is a series of ponds that are part of a larger natural area that is home to a lot of wildlife and outdoor recreational activity. Located just south of Riverbend off Prospect and Timberline, the natural area is also home to the Poudre River, and is a popular spot for fly fishermen as well as many other types of anglers.

Boasting similar fish to Riverbend, Prospect ponds have a large stock of largemouth bass and rainbow trout, but due to a high volume of carp and other invasive species, we chose Prospect ponds to come second in this year’s list.

“Unlike riverbend, Prospect ponds is clearer water and has more types of fish to watch for when trying to catch the main sport fish,” said Trevor Hanson. “For this reason, I recommend using a crank bait that is slightly larger to try and keep the bass interested, but use something that won’t attract the attention of the carp as much.”

Douglas Reservoir:

The third and final lake we have chosen for this year’s list is Douglas Reservoir, located about eight miles north of CSU off US-287. This lake is a significantly larger body of water than the other two, offering anglers a different experience while fishing.

Given the high volume of recreational use Douglas reservoir gets, fishing can sometimes be a difficult task due to the use of boats that occurs on the lake. For this reason we have chosen to place it third on our list. Despite the heavy use, Douglas is still a great place to catch the sport fish you’re looking for, while also escaping the city to beautiful scenery surrounding the lake.

“Douglas reservoir is a great place for anyone to fish, especially those just beginning that need an open spot to practice on. With high volumes of fish and easy spots to cast from, beginners can have a much easier time experimenting with different baits and casting methods,” said Trevor Hanson. “Although I personally use soft plastics out there, any kind of bait will get you a bite at Douglas, just find a quiet spot and start casting.”

Although we have only given you three spots around the city, Fort Collins is home to many great bass and trout fishing locations where fishermen of any skill and interest can have an enjoyable fishing experience at.

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