Fishing at Cherry Creek Reservoir, Colorado
880-acre reservoir · Arapahoe County · 5,500 ft elevation · 3 species stocked
Stretching across 880 acres in Arapahoe County, Cherry Creek Reservoir is a reservoir known to anglers throughout Colorado for its consistent fishery for its target species. Whether you're casting from a kayak or running deeper structure from a boat, the data on this page will help you plan your next trip.
Recent Stocking Reports
The most recent 10 stocking events on record for Cherry Creek Reservoir:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 31, 2026 | 🌈 Rainbow Trout | 6,790 | 2.9″ |
| Feb 17, 2026 | 🐟 Channel Catfish | 4,533 | 8.6″ |
| Jul 5, 2025 | 🐟 Channel Catfish | 4,400 | 3.1″ |
| Jun 10, 2025 | 🐟 Channel Catfish | 2,525 | 3.8″ |
| May 8, 2025 | 🐟 Channel Catfish | 3,538 | 11.1″ |
| Apr 12, 2025 | 🌈 Rainbow Trout | 18,666 | 8.7″ |
| Apr 8, 2025 | 🐟 Channel Catfish | 2,514 | 3.1″ |
| Dec 21, 2024 | 🐟 Channel Catfish | 3,081 | 5.3″ |
| Oct 28, 2024 | 🌈 Rainbow Trout | 3,576 | 10.6″ |
| Apr 15, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 601,005 | 12.4″ |
Species You Can Catch
- 🌈 Rainbow Trout — best in spring, fall
- 🐟 Channel Catfish — best in summer
- 🐟 Walleye — best in spring, fall
Where to Catch Rainbow Trout in Colorado
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Cherry Creek 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 Channel Catfish lakes in Colorado
- Top Walleye lakes in Colorado
Best Time to Fish Cherry Creek Reservoir
For rainbow trout, the best fishing on Cherry Creek 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 Cherry Creek 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: Medium-heavy 7' catfish rod
- reel: Catfish baitcaster
- rod: Medium-light 7' spinning rod (sensitive tip)
- lure: Jig heads 1/8 - 1/4 oz
Nearby Lakes
Other stocked waters within ~75 miles of Cherry Creek Reservoir:
- Eleven Mile Reservoir — 60.1 mi (3,300 ac)
- Spinney Mountain Reservoir — 62.9 mi (2,520 ac)
- Lake Granby — 64.6 mi (7,256 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Colorado fishing license is required at Cherry Creek 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 Cherry Creek Reservoir?
Cherry Creek Reservoir has been stocked with Rainbow Trout, Channel Catfish, Walleye.
When was Cherry Creek Reservoir last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Mar 31, 2026, when 6,790 rainbow trout were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Cherry Creek Reservoir?
Yes — a valid Colorado fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Colorado Parks and Wildlife.