Fishing at Blue Mesa Reservoir, Colorado
9,180-acre reservoir · Gunnison County · 7,519 ft elevation · 4 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Colorado, Blue Mesa Reservoir is one of the most consistently productive reservoirs in Gunnison County. At 9,180 acres, it offers mid-sized lake fishing across diverse habitat — exactly the kind of water that rewards anglers who pay attention to stocking schedules and seasonal patterns.
Recent Stocking Reports
The most recent 10 stocking events on record for Blue Mesa Reservoir:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 30, 2026 | 🌈 Rainbow Trout | 23,476 | 8.0″ |
| Jan 28, 2026 | 🍣 Kokanee Salmon | 130,307 | 6.1″ |
| May 17, 2025 | 🍣 Kokanee Salmon | 123,164 | 3.0″ |
| May 5, 2025 | 🐟 Lake Trout | 5,389 | 10.3″ |
| Apr 27, 2025 | 🟫 Brown Trout | 3,988 | 7.7″ |
| Dec 14, 2024 | 🌈 Rainbow Trout | 10,025 | 4.3″ |
| Sep 26, 2024 | 🌈 Rainbow Trout | 24,458 | 5.3″ |
| Jul 31, 2024 | 🍣 Kokanee Salmon | 21,592 | 11.2″ |
| Jun 12, 2024 | 🟫 Brown Trout | 5,955 | 5.2″ |
| Jan 15, 2024 | 🟫 Brown Trout | 1,802 | 9.8″ |
Species You Can Catch
- 🌈 Rainbow Trout — best in spring, fall
- 🍣 Kokanee Salmon — best in summer
- 🐟 Lake Trout — best in spring, fall
- 🟫 Brown Trout — best in fall, winter
Where to Catch Rainbow Trout in Colorado
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Blue Mesa Reservoir, the state-level guide ranks the top lakes by stocking volume — a good supplement to this page when planning a trip:
- Top Rainbow Trout lakes in Colorado
- Top Kokanee Salmon lakes in Colorado
- Top Lake Trout lakes in Colorado
- Top Brown Trout lakes in Colorado
Best Time to Fish Blue Mesa Reservoir
For rainbow trout, the best fishing on Blue Mesa Reservoir is typically in spring and fall, when surface temperatures fall in the 50–65°F range. That window matches the active feeding period for the species and aligns with reservoir thermal turnover, putting fish in predictable depths and structure. Check the recent stocking dates above — fish are easiest to locate in the first two to four weeks after a planting.
Gear Recommendations
Curated picks for the species stocked in Blue Mesa Reservoir. Links go to Amazon — as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
- rod: Ultralight 6'6" spinning rod
- reel: Light spinning reel (1000 size)
- rod: Light kokanee trolling rod
- reel: Line counter reel
- rod: Medium-heavy jigging rod
- lure: Jigging spoons 1-2 oz
- rod: Medium-light 7' spinning rod
- lure: Jerkbaits
Fishing Regulations
A valid Colorado fishing license is required at Blue Mesa Reservoir. Buy one online and check current regulations at the Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Always confirm seasonal closures, size limits, and creel limits before fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fish are stocked in Blue Mesa Reservoir?
Blue Mesa Reservoir has been stocked with Rainbow Trout, Kokanee Salmon, Lake Trout, Brown Trout.
When was Blue Mesa Reservoir last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Mar 30, 2026, when 23,476 rainbow trout were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Blue Mesa Reservoir?
Yes — a valid Colorado fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Colorado Parks and Wildlife.