What You'll Find at Riverbend Ponds

Riverbend Ponds Natural Area sits just north of Fort Collins along the Cache la Poudre River and holds three shallow ponds stocked with rainbow trout. The ponds are managed by the City of Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Department as a public fishing area, making it one of the most accessible trout fisheries in the northern Front Range. The setting is open grassland with minimal shade, so expect full sun exposure and plan accordingly for weather.

The ponds range from roughly one to three acres each and average 8 to 12 feet deep in the center, though they shallow considerably along the edges. Because they're spring-fed and relatively small, water temperature can fluctuate with the season and time of day. Trout here are typically 10 to 14 inches, with occasional fish pushing 16 inches. The ponds are stocked regularly during the fishing season, so catch rates tend to be reliable for anglers using basic techniques.

Access is free and the area is open to the public year-round during daylight hours. There's a small parking area at the entrance, and a short walk gets you to the water. The natural area also includes hiking and wildlife viewing, so you'll share the space with non-anglers, especially on weekends.

Key Takeaways

  • Riverbend Ponds holds three small trout ponds stocked with rainbows, located just north of Fort Collins off Lemay Avenue.
  • A Colorado Parks and Wildlife fishing license is required; you can purchase one online, at sporting goods stores, or at Parks and Wildlife offices.
  • The ponds are open year-round during daylight hours, but water conditions and stocking frequency vary by season — spring and fall typically offer the most consistent fishing.
  • Spin gear, fly rods, and basic bait all work here; the shallow ponds and stocked trout mean you don't need specialized technique to catch fish.
  • Parking is limited and the area gets busy on weekends, so arrive early if you're fishing Saturday or Sunday.

Seasons and Water Conditions

Spring (April through May) is when the ponds fish best. Stocking happens regularly, water temperatures are cool, and trout are actively feeding after winter. Mornings and late afternoons are most productive, and you'll see steady action on spinners, small spoons, and nymphs. The ponds can be crowded on weekends, so a weekday trip pays off.

Summer (June through August) slows the bite considerably. Water warms, stocking frequency drops, and trout retreat to deeper water and shaded areas. Early morning and dusk are your only reliable windows. Fly fishing with small nymphs or dry flies works better than spin gear during this period because you can fish the deeper channels and cooler pockets. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August, so check the forecast before you go.

Fall (September through October) picks up again as water cools and stocking resumes. September can be excellent, with fewer anglers than spring and active fish. By late October, water temperature drops and fishing slows, though it remains possible on calm days. Winter (November through February) sees minimal stocking and sparse fishing, though hardy anglers occasionally find fish on mild days.

What Gear and Techniques Work Here

Spin fishing is the most common approach at Riverbend Ponds. Light spinning rods (5 to 6 feet) with 4- to 6-pound test line work well. Small spinners in silver, gold, or black catch trout consistently, as do 1/8-ounce spoons. Cast near the edges and along any visible structure — fallen branches, deeper channels, or areas where water enters the ponds. Retrieve slowly and pause frequently; trout here respond to a methodical presentation.

Fly fishing is effective, especially in summer when water warms. A 5- or 6-weight rod with a floating line and 4X to 5X tippet handles the shallow water. Small nymphs (size 14 to 18) in olive, brown, and black work year-round. Dry flies like Adams or small caddis imitations produce during morning and evening hours. The ponds are small enough that you can cover water efficiently from the bank without wading.

Bait fishing with small pieces of nightcrawler or PowerBait works but is less effective than lures because the ponds are shallow and clear. If you use bait, fish early morning or dusk and keep your presentation subtle. Avoid heavy sinkers; a small split shot or two is enough to reach the deeper channels.

Access, Parking, and Regulations

Riverbend Ponds Natural Area is located at 4350 Lemay Avenue, Fort Collins, Colorado 80524. From downtown Fort Collins, head north on Lemay Avenue for approximately 3 miles; the entrance is on the east side of the road. Parking is limited to a small gravel lot that holds roughly 15 to 20 vehicles. On busy weekends, it fills by mid-morning, so arrive early or plan a weekday visit.

The area is open from sunrise to sunset year-round. There are no facilities — no restrooms, no water, no shade structures — so bring what you need and plan for the weather. The walk from the parking area to the ponds is short (less than a quarter-mile) and flat, making it accessible for most anglers.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations apply. You must have a valid Colorado fishing license to fish. Licenses are available online at cpw.state.co.us, at sporting goods retailers throughout Fort Collins (Ace Hardware, Walmart, Dick's Sporting Goods), and at the Colorado Parks and Wildlife office in Fort Collins. A one-day license costs less than a full-season license if you're visiting briefly. Trout limit is four fish per day, and there are no size restrictions. Check current regulations before you fish, as rules can change.

When to Fish and What to Expect

Weekday mornings in spring and fall are your best bet for solitude and consistent action. Arrive by 7 or 8 a.m., fish until mid-morning, and you'll likely have the ponds mostly to yourself. Weekends draw families, hikers, and other anglers, so the experience is more social and the fishing pressure is higher. If you prefer quiet water, avoid Saturday and Sunday unless you're willing to arrive very early.

The ponds are shallow and clear, which means trout can see you. Wade slowly, keep your shadow off the water, and avoid sudden movements. Polarized sunglasses help you spot fish and read the water. Because the ponds are small, you can cover all three in a morning session if you want to explore and find where the fish are holding on a given day.

Weather changes quickly in the Front Range. Afternoon winds can make fly fishing difficult, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Plan to fish early and be off the water by early afternoon, especially in July and August. Bring sun protection — there's no shade at the ponds, and the reflection off the water intensifies UV exposure.

Nearby Fishing and Lodging

If Riverbend Ponds doesn't produce or you want to explore other water, the Cache la Poudre River runs nearby and offers public access at several points. The Poudre is larger and more technical than the ponds but holds wild brown and rainbow trout. Access points include the Picnic Area (south of Riverbend) and various public lands upstream. The Poudre fishes best in spring and early summer when flows are higher.

Fort Collins has abundant lodging, from budget motels to upscale hotels. The downtown area has restaurants, shops, and services. If you're planning a longer trip, consider staying in Fort Collins and fishing multiple locations — the Poudre, Riverbend Ponds, and nearby mountain streams are all within an hour's drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to fish Riverbend Ponds?

Yes. A Colorado fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase a one-day license online at cpw.state.co.us or at sporting goods stores in Fort Collins. The cost is modest and supports fish stocking and habitat management.

Can I wade in the ponds?

Wading is allowed, but the ponds are shallow and murky in places, so wear a wading belt and move carefully. The banks are accessible for bank fishing, which is easier and often just as productive. Check water depth before you wade.

What's the best time of year to fish here?

Spring (April and May) and fall (September and October) are most reliable. Water is cool, trout are actively feeding, and stocking is regular. Summer slows considerably, and winter sees minimal activity.

Are there restrooms or facilities at the ponds?

No. There are no restrooms, water, or shade structures. Bring everything you need, including sun protection and water to drink. The parking area is the only developed feature.

How crowded does it get on weekends?

The parking lot fills by mid-morning on nice weekends, and you'll share the ponds with other anglers and hikers. Weekday mornings are much quieter. If you prefer solitude, plan a weekday trip or arrive very early on weekends.