The Aurora Reservoir Trout Tournament draws anglers each spring to compete for rainbow and brown trout in one of Colorado's most accessible urban fisheries
The Aurora Reservoir Trout Tournament is an annual spring event hosted by the City of Aurora Parks and Recreation Department. The tournament typically runs for a set period in April or May, though exact dates shift year to year. Anglers fish from the shoreline or boats during designated hours, and the tournament ranks catches by weight — largest trout wins in each category.
The reservoir sits just outside Denver and holds a healthy population of stocked rainbow trout, along with brown trout that have established naturally. The event draws both seasoned competitors and people fishing for the first time, and entry fees go toward maintaining the fishery and funding youth fishing programs in Aurora.
Key Takeaways
- The Aurora Reservoir Trout Tournament runs for a limited period each spring, usually in April or May, with specific start and end dates posted by the City of Aurora Parks and Recreation Department.
- You must register before the tournament begins, and registration typically closes a few days before the event starts — check the Parks and Recreation website for the current year's deadline.
- A valid Colorado fishing license is required, and you must follow all state fishing regulations including catch limits and tackle restrictions that may apply to the reservoir.
- The tournament ranks anglers by total weight of fish caught during the competition period, with separate categories for different angler types or age groups depending on the year's format.
- Boats are permitted, but many anglers fish successfully from shore, and the reservoir has public access points with parking and facilities.
Registration and Entry Requirements
Registration for the Aurora Reservoir Trout Tournament opens several weeks before the event and closes a few days before fishing begins. You register through the City of Aurora Parks and Recreation Department — either online through their website or in person at their offices. The entry fee covers your participation and contributes to tournament operations and youth fishing programs.
When you register, you will need to provide your name, contact information, and confirmation that you hold a valid Colorado fishing license. Some tournaments ask whether you plan to fish from shore or boat, as this information helps organizers manage access and safety. Keep your registration confirmation — you may need to show it at the weigh-in station.
What You Need Before You Go
A valid Colorado fishing license is mandatory. You can purchase one online through Colorado Parks and Wildlife, at sporting goods stores, or at Parks and Wildlife offices. Licenses are available as short-term (one day, five days, or annual) options. If you already hold a license from a previous year, check the expiration date — licenses expire on December 31 of the year issued.
You will also need fishing tackle appropriate for trout: a rod and reel or fly rod, line, hooks or flies, and whatever bait or lures you prefer. The reservoir allows both spin fishing and fly fishing. Check the current Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations for Aurora Reservoir before you fish — some waters have restrictions on tackle type, bait, or catch limits that differ from statewide rules.
If you plan to fish from a boat, your boat must be registered with Colorado Parks and Wildlife and you must have a current boating safety certificate if you were born after January 1, 1989. If you are fishing from shore, wear a personal flotation device if you wade, and bring sun protection, water, and a way to keep fish cool if you catch them.
How the Tournament Works
The tournament runs during a set window — usually three to five days — and you can fish during designated hours each day. Most tournaments allow fishing from sunrise to sunset or a similar timeframe; the Parks and Recreation Department will specify exact hours in your registration materials. You fish during whichever days work for your schedule; you do not have to fish every day.
All fish you catch during the tournament period count toward your total weight. You keep your catch in a cooler or on a stringer, and at the end of each day (or at the end of the tournament, depending on the format) you bring your fish to the official weigh-in station. The weigh-in location is posted before the tournament starts — it is usually at a boat ramp or parking area on the reservoir.
Staff at the weigh-in station will measure and weigh your fish, record the information, and return your catch to you. The angler with the heaviest total weight in their category wins. Some tournaments also award prizes for the largest single fish or have separate categories for youth, seniors, or first-time competitors.
Where to Fish at Aurora Reservoir
Aurora Reservoir has several public access points around its perimeter. The main boat ramp and day-use area is at the north end, near Quincy Avenue, and offers parking, restrooms, and a concession stand. This is where most tournament weigh-ins take place. Other shoreline access points exist on the east and south sides of the reservoir, though facilities vary.
The reservoir is roughly 1,400 acres and holds trout throughout, but fish tend to concentrate near the dam, along deeper drop-offs, and near the inlet where water enters. Early morning and late afternoon are typically the most productive times. If you are new to the reservoir, arriving a day or two early to scout the water and talk to other anglers can help you find productive spots.
Colorado Fishing Regulations You Must Follow
Colorado Parks and Wildlife sets statewide fishing rules, and Aurora Reservoir may have additional local restrictions. Statewide, the daily catch limit for trout is typically 10 fish, though this can vary by water and season. Size limits also apply — check the current regulations to confirm the minimum length for trout at Aurora Reservoir.
You must use only legal tackle: single-hook artificial lures, flies, or live bait are generally permitted, but check the specific rules for Aurora Reservoir before you fish. Some waters restrict bait to certain types or prohibit live baitfish entirely. Snagging (hooking fish in the body rather than the mouth) is illegal. If you are unsure about any regulation, call Colorado Parks and Wildlife or ask staff at the Parks and Recreation office when you register.
Preparing Your Catch for the Weigh-In
Keep your fish alive and cool from the moment you catch them. A stringer in the water or a cooler with ice will preserve quality and ensure accurate weighing. Do not gut or fillet fish before the weigh-in — the tournament weighs whole fish. If a fish dies during the day, keep it on ice anyway; dead fish still count, though they may be slightly lighter due to water loss.
Bring your fish to the weigh-in station in a cooler or on a wet stringer. Staff will handle the weighing and recording. After your fish are weighed and recorded, you can take them home to clean and cook, or ask if the tournament has any community fish fry or donation program — some events donate excess catch to local food banks or host a shared meal for participants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a boat to fish the tournament, or can I fish from shore?
You can fish from shore. Many anglers do, and the reservoir has good shoreline access with parking and facilities. A boat gives you access to deeper water and more area to cover, but it is not required to compete.
What if I catch more fish than the daily limit?
You must follow Colorado's daily catch limit, which is typically 10 trout statewide. If you reach the limit, stop fishing. The tournament counts only legal fish caught within the rules, so exceeding the limit disqualifies you.
Can I fish the tournament if I have never fished before?
Yes. The tournament is open to all anglers with a valid Colorado fishing license. If you are new to fishing, consider arriving early to watch other anglers, ask questions at the weigh-in station, or visit a local fly shop — staff there can offer tips specific to Aurora Reservoir.
When do I find out the exact dates for next year's tournament?
The City of Aurora Parks and Recreation Department announces dates usually in late winter or early spring. Check their website or call their office in January or February to learn when registration opens and when the tournament will run.
What happens if the weather is bad during the tournament?
The tournament typically runs as scheduled regardless of weather. If conditions are severe enough to close the reservoir or make fishing unsafe, the Parks and Recreation Department will announce cancellation or postponement — check their website or call before you head out.