Ridgway Reservoir is a cold-water fishery below a dam, stocked with trout and known for consistent catches in a high-altitude setting
Ridgway Reservoir sits at 7,360 feet in the Uncompahgre Valley near the town of Ridgway, about 40 miles south of Montrose. The lake holds rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon, with the water fed by a tailgate below the dam — meaning the temperature stays cold year-round and trout remain active even in summer. The reservoir is roughly 1,000 acres when full, though water levels fluctuate seasonally based on irrigation demands.
The park itself offers boat ramps, picnic areas, and a campground with about 275 sites. Most anglers fish from boats, though shore access exists along the dam and at designated areas. The setting is high desert with piñon and juniper, and the surrounding peaks of the San Juan Mountains frame the water. Wind can be significant in afternoon hours, particularly in spring and early summer.
Key Takeaways
- Ridgway Reservoir holds rainbow and brown trout year-round, with kokanee salmon adding a secondary target in fall.
- A Colorado Parks and Wildlife Parks Pass is required for day use; overnight camping requires a separate reservation through Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
- Trolling and jigging are the primary methods; shore fishing works near the dam and at the inlet, but boat access reaches deeper, more productive water.
- Water levels drop significantly in late summer and fall due to irrigation, which can affect boat ramp access and fish location.
- The tailwater below the dam stays cold enough to support trout through summer, making June through September the most reliable season for consistent fishing.
When to Fish and What Species to Target
Spring (April through May) brings warming water and active feeding after winter. Rainbow trout are most abundant and easiest to catch during this window. Brown trout become more aggressive as water temperatures rise, and they hold in deeper structure — drop-offs, submerged timber, and rocky points. Kokanee salmon are present year-round but are most targeted in fall (September through October) when they move into shallower water to spawn.
Summer (June through August) is productive because the tailwater keeps temperatures in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit, while the main reservoir can warm into the 60s and low 70s. Trout remain active throughout the day, though early morning and late evening are still most reliable. Fall fishing is strong through October, with kokanee providing a different challenge and browns feeding heavily before winter. Winter (November through March) slows considerably; ice can form on the reservoir, and fishing is possible but requires patience and specialized techniques.
Boat Ramps, Access, and Water Level Considerations
Ridgway State Park operates two boat ramps: one at the main day-use area near the dam and a second at the north shore. Both are paved and maintained, but water level is critical. In late summer and fall, irrigation withdrawals lower the reservoir by 30 to 50 feet, which can make the north ramp unusable and narrow the launch window at the main ramp. Check current water levels through Colorado Parks and Wildlife before making the drive, especially if you plan to launch a larger boat.
Shore access is limited but available. The area immediately below the dam allows walk-in fishing, and a short trail leads to productive water. The inlet area on the north end can be reached by vehicle and offers shore access, though it is shallower and less consistent than boat fishing. Parking at both locations fills quickly on weekends, particularly in summer.
Fishing Methods and What Works
Trolling is the dominant technique at Ridgway. Most anglers use small spoons (silver or gold, 1 to 2 inches), spinners, or crankbaits that mimic kokanee and small baitfish. Troll along drop-offs, around the inlet, and near the dam in 20 to 50 feet of water. Speed matters — a slow troll of 1 to 2 miles per hour is more effective than faster presentations.
Jigging works well from anchored boats, particularly over deeper structure. Use 1/8- to 1/4-ounce jigs tipped with maggots, waxworms, or small minnows. Vertical jigging near the dam and along the main channel produces consistent catches. Shore anglers have success with small spinners and spoons cast from the dam area, though the retrieve is slower and less productive than boat fishing. Live baitfish (where legal under current regulations) can be effective but check current Colorado Parks and Wildlife rules before using them.
Regulations, Licenses, and Permits
A valid Colorado fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. Licenses are sold at the park office, in Ridgway, and online through Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Daily licenses are available if you do not want to purchase an annual pass.
Ridgway Reservoir is subject to Colorado Parks and Wildlife statewide regulations: a two-trout daily limit (combined species) and a 10-inch minimum size. Kokanee have a separate limit of 10 fish per day. Check the current Colorado Parks and Wildlife fishing guide for any special regulations or closures, as rules can change seasonally. A Parks Pass (day use) costs a set fee per vehicle and is required even if you do not fish — it covers parking and facility access. Overnight camping requires a separate reservation.
Camping and Facilities at Ridgway State Park
The park operates a year-round campground with about 275 sites, most with electrical hookups. Reservations are made through Colorado Parks and Wildlife and are strongly recommended for weekends and summer months. Sites fill quickly, particularly from June through August. The campground includes restrooms, showers, and a dump station.
Day-use facilities include picnic tables, grills, and restrooms at the main area near the dam. A small marina operates seasonally and rents boats if you do not have your own. Fuel and supplies are available in Ridgway, about 10 miles north, but the park itself has limited services. Bring water and snacks if you plan a full day.
Getting There and Nearby Options
Ridgway Reservoir is accessed via Colorado State Road 62, which runs through the town of Ridgway. From Montrose, take US 50 south to Ridgway, then follow signs to the park — about 40 minutes total. The drive is straightforward, with good road conditions year-round, though winter snow can occasionally close higher passes in the surrounding mountains.
The Uncompahgre River below the dam offers a different fishing experience: it is a tailwater stream with good fly-fishing for browns and rainbows. If you want to combine reservoir and river fishing, the two are close enough to fish both in a single trip. The town of Ridgway has motels, restaurants, and a small grocery store if you prefer not to camp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fish from shore, or do I need a boat?
Shore fishing is possible near the dam and at the inlet, but boat access reaches deeper, more productive water and is the standard approach. If you do not have a boat, the marina at the park rents them seasonally. Shore fishing can work in spring and fall when water levels are higher and trout are shallower.
What is the best time of year to visit?
June through September is most reliable because the tailwater stays cold and trout remain active all day. Spring (April and May) is also strong for rainbow trout. Fall (September and October) adds kokanee as a target. Winter is slower and less predictable.
How deep is the water, and where should I fish?
The main basin reaches 100+ feet in places, but most productive fishing happens in 20 to 50 feet of water along drop-offs and near structure. The inlet area is shallower (10 to 30 feet) and good for jigging. The dam area holds trout year-round and is a reliable starting point.
What happens if water levels are low?
Late summer and fall irrigation withdrawals can lower the reservoir significantly, which may make the north boat ramp unusable and narrow the launch window at the main ramp. Check current water levels through Colorado Parks and Wildlife before you go. Fish are still present but may be concentrated in deeper areas.
Do I need a Parks Pass if I am camping?
Yes. The Parks Pass covers day-use access and parking. Camping requires a separate reservation through Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Both are required if you stay overnight.