Quail Lake is a small reservoir in central Colorado with reliable populations of rainbow trout and kokanee salmon

Quail Lake sits in Fremont County near the town of Cañon City, about 40 miles south of Colorado Springs. The reservoir holds roughly 100 surface acres and reaches depths of around 60 feet in the deepest sections. The water is clear enough for sight-fishing in summer months, and the surrounding landscape is high desert scrub with ponderosa pine scattered across the ridges.

The lake is stocked regularly with rainbow trout by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and a self-sustaining kokanee salmon population provides a secondary target. Largemouth bass are also present but less abundant. The lake sits at about 6,000 feet elevation, so weather can shift quickly in spring and fall, and winter access depends on snow conditions.

Key Takeaways

  • Quail Lake is open year-round but most accessible from April through October; winter access requires checking current conditions with Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
  • A Colorado fishing license is required, and the lake has a 15-fish daily limit for trout with no size restriction.
  • The lake has a boat ramp and a small day-use area with parking, picnic tables, and vault toilets but no overnight camping.
  • Kokanee salmon are most active in fall (September through November), while rainbow trout bite consistently spring through early winter.
  • The nearest town with lodging and supplies is Cañon City, about 15 minutes away by car.

How to reach Quail Lake and what facilities are there

From Cañon City, take US Highway 50 east for about 12 miles, then turn north on County Road 143. Follow it for roughly 3 miles until you reach the lake access area. The road is paved to the lake but can be rough in places after heavy rain or snow melt. In winter, call the Cañon City ranger district of Colorado Parks and Wildlife to confirm the road is passable.

The day-use area has a concrete boat ramp suitable for trailers, a small parking lot with space for about 20 vehicles, picnic tables, and vault toilets. There is no drinking water at the lake, so bring what you need. No overnight camping is permitted at Quail Lake itself, but dispersed camping is available on nearby public land, and Cañon City has several RV parks and motels within 15 minutes of the lake.

Fishing seasons and what species to target

Rainbow trout are the primary target year-round. They bite best in spring (April and May) when the water is cool and insects are hatching, and again in fall (September and October) as water temperatures drop. Summer fishing is possible but slower during midday heat; early morning and evening produce better results. Winter fishing is productive but requires checking access conditions first.

Kokanee salmon run in fall, typically from late August through November, with peak activity in September and October. These fish are smaller than trout (usually 8 to 12 inches) but fight hard and are excellent table fare. They school in deeper water during the day and move shallower at dawn and dusk. Largemouth bass are present but not the focus of most anglers; they are most active in summer and early fall in shallow, weedy areas.

Tackle and techniques that work at Quail Lake

For rainbow trout, spinning rigs with small spinners (size 1 or 2), spoons, or soft plastics work well. Fly fishing is effective in spring and fall, particularly with nymphs and small streamers. From shore, cast along drop-offs and structure; from a boat, troll slowly in 15 to 40 feet of water or cast to visible structure. The water clarity means fish can see your line, so use 4- to 6-pound test monofilament or fluorocarbon.

Kokanee salmon respond to small jigging spoons (1/4 to 1/2 ounce) worked vertically in 30 to 60 feet of water. A sonar unit or fish finder is helpful for locating schools. Trolling small spoons or spinners at depths of 20 to 40 feet also produces kokanee. For largemouth bass, use soft plastics, crankbaits, or topwater lures in shallow water near any visible vegetation or structure.

Colorado fishing license and regulations at Quail Lake

A valid Colorado fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. Licenses are sold online through Colorado Parks and Wildlife, at sporting goods stores in Cañon City, and at some convenience stores. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you plan only a single trip.

The daily limit for trout at Quail Lake is 15 fish with no minimum size. Kokanee salmon count toward the trout limit. Largemouth bass have a separate limit of 5 fish per day with a 12-inch minimum size. Possession limits are twice the daily limit. Check the current Colorado Parks and Wildlife fishing regulations before you go, as rules can change.

Best times to fish and what weather to expect

Spring (April through May) brings consistent hatches and active trout feeding, though water is cold and weather can be unpredictable. Summer (June through August) is warmest and most crowded; fish bite early and late in the day. Fall (September through October) offers excellent fishing for both trout and kokanee, with stable weather and fewer anglers. Winter (November through March) is productive for trout but access is weather-dependent.

Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer and early fall. Wind can pick up in afternoon, making morning the better fishing window. Elevation at 6,000 feet means temperatures drop quickly after sunset, so bring layers even in summer. Snow can close the access road from December through February in heavy years, so call ahead if you are planning a winter trip.

Lodging and supplies near Quail Lake

Cañon City is the nearest town with full services, about 15 minutes from the lake. The town has grocery stores, gas stations, and several motels and RV parks. The Cañon City Chamber of Commerce website lists current lodging options. For a more remote experience, dispersed camping is available on Bureau of Land Management land near the lake; consult a BLM map or contact the Cañon City ranger district for specific locations and current conditions.

If you want to stay closer to the lake, the nearest developed campground with amenities is Eleven Mile State Park, about 30 minutes north. It has full hookups, a boat ramp, and a larger day-use area, though it is more crowded than Quail Lake. Quail Lake itself remains quieter and less developed, making it a good choice for anglers who prefer fewer people and simpler facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Quail Lake in winter?

Yes, the lake is open year-round, and winter fishing can be productive. However, the access road may be closed or difficult to navigate after snow. Call the Cañon City ranger district of Colorado Parks and Wildlife before you go to confirm current conditions and whether the road is passable.

Do I need a boat to fish Quail Lake?

No. Shore fishing is productive, especially along the dam and drop-offs. A boat gives you access to deeper water and kokanee salmon, but many anglers catch plenty of trout from shore. The boat ramp is available for day use if you bring your own boat.

What is the best bait for kokanee salmon at Quail Lake?

Kokanee at Quail Lake respond better to lures than live bait. Small jigging spoons and trolling spoons in silver or gold work best. Jigging vertically in deep water (30 to 60 feet) is the most effective technique, particularly in fall when kokanee are most active.

Is there camping at Quail Lake?

No overnight camping is permitted at the lake itself. Day-use only is allowed. Dispersed camping is available on nearby public land, and Cañon City has RV parks and motels within 15 minutes. Eleven Mile State Park, about 30 minutes north, also offers developed camping with full hookups.

What should I bring to Quail Lake?

Bring drinking water, sunscreen, layers for temperature changes, and a headlamp or flashlight if you plan to fish early or late. There are no services at the lake. A Colorado fishing license, valid ID, and current fishing regulations are required. If you plan to fish deep water or target kokanee, a fish finder is helpful but not essential.