What the Eleven Mile Reservoir Ice Fishing Contest Is
The Eleven Mile Reservoir Ice Fishing Contest is an annual winter event held on the frozen surface of Eleven Mile Reservoir near Lake George, Colorado. The contest draws anglers of all skill levels who compete for prizes by catching fish through holes in the ice. It's a community event run by Colorado Parks and Wildlife in partnership with local organizations, and it's free to enter — you pay only for your fishing license if you don't already have one.
The contest typically takes place in January or February, when the ice is thick enough to safely support anglers. The exact dates shift year to year based on ice conditions, so checking with Colorado Parks and Wildlife or the Eleven Mile Reservoir office before you plan your trip is essential. The event usually runs for a single day, though some years it spans a weekend.
Key Takeaways
- Eleven Mile Reservoir Ice Fishing Contest is held annually in winter on the frozen reservoir surface near Lake George, Colorado, and entry is free with a valid fishing license.
- Dates change each year based on ice thickness and safety conditions, so you must confirm the current year's date with Colorado Parks and Wildlife before making plans.
- You'll need a valid Colorado fishing license, an ice auger or chisel to cut holes, and basic ice fishing gear like a rod, line, and bait or lures suitable for the fish species in the reservoir.
- The reservoir holds primarily rainbow trout and kokanee salmon, and prize categories often include largest fish, most fish caught, and youth divisions.
- Parking, facilities, and safety briefings are provided on-site, but you should arrive early because spots fill quickly on contest day.
Getting Your Fishing License and Understanding Rules
Before you fish at Eleven Mile Reservoir, you need a valid Colorado fishing license. You can purchase one online through Colorado Parks and Wildlife's website, at sporting goods retailers, or at the reservoir office itself. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you fish only occasionally, and the money supports fish management and habitat work across the state.
The contest follows standard Colorado fishing regulations for the reservoir. Rainbow trout and kokanee salmon are the primary species you'll encounter. Possession limits, size restrictions, and bait rules vary by species and season, so review the current Colorado fishing regulations before you go. These rules apply whether you're fishing the contest or fishing recreationally on any other day.
Ice fishing at Eleven Mile Reservoir is catch-and-release for most contest categories, though some events may allow you to keep your catch. The contest rules posted by Colorado Parks and Wildlife will specify what happens to fish you catch — check the official announcement for the year you're attending.
What Gear You Need to Bring
Ice fishing requires different equipment than open-water fishing. You'll need an ice auger (a hand-crank or powered drill to cut holes in the ice) or an ice chisel to break through. A standard fishing rod and reel work fine, though many ice anglers prefer shorter rods designed for the confined space. Bring line rated for cold water, which becomes brittle in freezing temperatures — 4- to 6-pound test is typical for trout and kokanee.
Bait and lures depend on what's biting that day. Live minnows, waxworms, and maggots are common baits for ice fishing at Eleven Mile. Small jigs and spoons also work well. Bring more than you think you'll need because fish can be picky in winter, and switching baits is part of the strategy.
Dress in layers — you'll be standing on ice for hours, and the wind across the reservoir can be sharp. Insulated boots rated for extreme cold, a warm hat, gloves, and a windproof jacket are not optional. Bring a small shelter or pop-up tent if you have one; many anglers use them to block wind and stay warmer. A bucket or cooler to hold your catch and sit on is useful. Hand warmers and a thermos of hot liquid make the day much more comfortable.
When the Contest Happens and How to Register
The contest date is announced by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, usually in late fall for the upcoming winter. Because ice thickness determines whether the event can safely proceed, the exact date may be confirmed only a week or two before the event. Sign up for updates through Colorado Parks and Wildlife's website or contact the Eleven Mile Reservoir office directly to learn the current year's date.
Registration is typically done on-site on the morning of the contest — you arrive, check in at the registration table, and receive any contest materials or instructions. Arrive early; parking and fishing spots fill quickly. The contest usually has a set start time (often sunrise or mid-morning) and an end time, with weigh-in or judging happening afterward.
Some years the contest may offer pre-registration online or by phone. Check the official announcement for the current year to see whether you can register in advance or must register the day of the event.
What Fish You're Likely to Catch
Eleven Mile Reservoir is stocked primarily with rainbow trout and kokanee salmon. Rainbow trout are the most common catch and range from small fingerlings to fish over 20 inches. Kokanee are smaller, usually 8 to 14 inches, and have a distinctive red color when spawning. Both species are active under the ice in winter, though their feeding patterns change with water temperature and light.
The reservoir also holds some brown trout and cutthroat trout, though they're less common in the catch. Fishing success varies by day and by where you set your holes — some areas of the reservoir hold more fish than others. Talking to other anglers on-site and asking the Colorado Parks and Wildlife staff for current conditions can help you choose a productive spot.
Safety on the Ice and What to Expect
Ice safety is taken seriously at Eleven Mile Reservoir. Colorado Parks and Wildlife monitors ice thickness throughout the winter and will not hold the contest until the ice is at least 4 inches thick — the minimum considered safe for walking. Even so, ice is never completely predictable. Wear a personal flotation device or ice rescue suit if you have one, and never venture onto the ice alone.
The reservoir provides parking near the fishing area, and staff are on-site during the contest to answer questions and monitor conditions. Facilities typically include portable restrooms and a warming shelter. Cell service can be spotty on the reservoir, so don't rely on your phone for emergencies — stay near other anglers and alert staff if something goes wrong.
Weather on the reservoir can change quickly. Wind, snow, and temperature swings are common in January and February. Bring extra layers and be prepared to leave early if conditions deteriorate. The contest will be called off if ice conditions become unsafe, so flexibility is part of the experience.
Prize Categories and What You're Competing For
Prize categories typically include largest fish overall, most fish caught, and youth divisions for younger anglers. Some years there are category prizes for specific species — largest rainbow trout, largest kokanee, and so on. Prizes are usually modest (fishing gear, gift certificates to local shops, or tackle), but the real draw for most people is the day on the ice with other anglers and the chance to catch fish in a unique setting.
Youth divisions make the contest family-friendly. Children often fish alongside adults, and the youth categories give younger anglers a fair shot at prizes. If you're bringing kids, confirm the age ranges for youth divisions when you check the contest date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a fishing license to fish the contest?
Yes. A valid Colorado fishing license is required. You can purchase a one-day license online or at the reservoir office. The license cost is separate from contest entry, which is free.
What if the ice isn't thick enough and the contest is postponed?
Colorado Parks and Wildlife will announce a new date once ice conditions are safe. Check their website or call the Eleven Mile Reservoir office for updates. The contest may be rescheduled to later in January or into February depending on weather.
Can I bring my kids to fish in the contest?
Yes. Youth divisions are part of most years' contests, and children can fish alongside adults. Confirm the age ranges for youth categories when you check the contest date, and make sure kids have appropriate cold-weather gear and supervision on the ice.
What's the best bait for ice fishing at Eleven Mile?
Live minnows and waxworms work well for both rainbow trout and kokanee. Small jigs and spoons are also effective. Conditions change day to day, so bring a variety and be ready to switch if fish aren't biting one bait.
Where do I find the exact contest date for this year?
Contact Colorado Parks and Wildlife directly or visit their website. The Eleven Mile Reservoir office can also provide the current year's date and any changes to the contest format. Dates are usually confirmed in late fall or early winter.