Fishing · Grand Mesa, CO

Grand Mesa Lakes

easyFeaturedSpring conditions. Water temperatures beginning to rise, increasing fish activity. Shore fishing productive as fish move to shallower water. Ice may still be present at higher elevations in early spring.

Directions

Before you go

Live · nearest station Delta County, 21 mi

Good to go

Good window today. Daylight to 8:14 pm.

66°

Smoky

Feels like 66°

Trailhead temp

48° est. at 10,000 ft

Wind

5 mph ESE

UV index

0 low

Sun window

6:19 am to 8:14 pm

Uncompahgre River at Delta is running 128 cfs, water 63°.

Distance

—

Elevation gain

42ft

High point

10,003ft

Season

Apr - Octpeak now

About

The Grand Mesa Lakes in western Colorado offer accessible fly fishing on the world's largest flat-top mountain. Located approximately 45 minutes from Grand Junction and Fruita, the area sits at an elevation between 10,000 and 11,000 feet. The region contains over 300 lakes and reservoirs, providing a high concentration of fishing access points along Highway 65 South and Highway 260 East. The primary species include rainbow, brown, cutthroat, and brook trout. Water clarity is generally good during the prime season due to low nutrient levels, though visibility may decrease immediately after spring runoff. The fishing season runs from April through October. Early spring conditions involve transitional ice cover on higher-elevation lakes, while late fall sees increased trout aggression. Parking is available at numerous public access sites, and the area permits pets. The terrain supports easy access via roads for day trips or extended stays at nearby RV parks and campgrounds.

Trail profile

Gain

42 ft

Avg grade

—

Steepest

—

High point

10,003 ft

Good to know

Parking at the trailhead

Restrooms available

Dogs allowed on leash

Waypoints

1Main Access Point10,000 ft

2Secondary Access Point10,003 ft

3Scenic Overlook9,961 ft

Latest water reportfair

Spring conditions. Water temperatures beginning to rise, increasing fish activity. Shore fishing productive as fish move to shallower water. Ice may still be present at higher elevations in early spring.

Reported Mar 3, 2025Verified

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