Canoe Fishing in Colorado

Canoe Fishing in Colorado
Photo Credit beached canoe image by Tanya McConnell from Fotolia.com

With more than 2,000 lakes and reservoirs scattered throughout Colorado, anglers have a wide range of locations to canoe as well as fish. When considering canoe fishing, those first-timers should understand safety, leasing and trolling, among other subjects, before setting out on any Colorado waters.

Aurora Reservoir

According to Auroa Gov.org, Aurora Reservoir is approximately 31,650 feet in length and sits southeast of Aurora, Colorado. In April, canoe fishermen travel the accessible parts of Aurora Reservoir and cast lures or baits around logs, rocks and fast water currents for aggressive largemouth bass and activity rainbows.

Safety

Canoe fishermen should always make safety a priority while fishing Colorado waters. Wear a life vest; carry a cell phone and avoiding fast-moving water are just some of the ways to keep a canoe angler and passengers safe. Bring along a cell phone in a waterproof bag.

Leasing a Canoe

Leasing a canoe is a cost-efficient alternative to purchasing one. Anglers interested in leasing can go to Bass Pro Shop locations throughout the state. According to Bass Pro Shop in Denver, Colorado, anglers wanting to lease a canoe choose from inflatable, soft rubber or hard plastic models. Those who are interested can sign up for weekend class that will teach them proper fishing techniques, while students are in their canoes. During spring and summer, Bass Pro Shop holds class in nearby Evergreen Lake while supplying participants' canoes as well as other canoe-related equipment including helmets, life vest and paddles.

Trolling

Trolling is throwing an artificial lure as you paddle the canoe. As the canoe moves forward, the lure travels behind, attaching nearby fish. As a fish comes along and see the lure, it will hammer it. The speed of the lure is dependent on how fast an angler paddles. According to Colorado Division of Wildlife, a silver Rapala floating minnow works well when trolling in medium to deep water levels. The Rapala lure resembles a small baitfish common found in Colorado's waters

License

Before fishing any rivers, streams or reservoirs within Colorado, obtain a state license. Colorado Division of Wildlife rangers frequent ask to see angler's licenses. Fines and even jail time are possibilities for anglers who do not own a license.

References

Article reviewed by Susan Salter Last updated on: Dec 8, 2010

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