Green Mountain Reservoir
We are the ONLY guide service on Green Mountain Reservoir offering our 6hr “Black Diamond” Ice Fishing and Pontoon Charter Fishing Trips!
Nestled along the Blue River in Summit County, Green Mountain Reservoir is one of Colorado’s most scenic and productive high-elevation fisheries. Located just north of Silverthorne near the town of Heeney, the reservoir sits at nearly 8,000 feet and offers year-round recreation with a strong reputation among anglers.
Fish Species and Fishery Overview
Green Mountain Reservoir is best known for its cold-water fishery and diverse mix of game fish. The primary species anglers can expect to target include:
- Rainbow Trout
- Brown Trout
- Lake Trout (Mackinaw)
- Kokanee Salmon
- Cutbow Trout (hybrids)
The combination creates a dynamic fishery with opportunities for both numbers and trophy-class fish. The reservoir is particularly known for healthy populations of trout and seasonal Kokanee salmon runs.
History of Green Mountain Reservoir
Green Mountain Reservoir was constructed between 1938 and 1943 by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation as part of the larger Colorado – Big Thompson Project. This major water project was designed to move water from Colorado’s Western Slope to the Front Range, supporting agriculture, cities, and industry.
Importantly, Green Mountain Reservoir played a key role as a “compensation reservoir.” Its purpose was to store and release water back to the Western Slope to offset the impacts of water divisions across the Continental Divide.
Today, the reservoir holds approximately 153,000 acre-feet of water and also supports hydroelectric power generation, while continuing to service as a vital piece of Colorado’s water management system.
Fishing Opportunities
Fishing at Green Mountain Reservoir is productive throughout the year and offers a variety of techniques and seasonal patterns.
Boat Fishing & TrollingÂ
- Due to the reservoir’s size (over 2000 surface acres), trolling is one of the most effective methods. Anglers commonly target trout and Kokanee using spoons, crankbaits, and flashers with bait.
Shore Fishing
- There is ample shoreline access, making it a great option for early season and fall fishing. The inlet areas and points can be especially productive when fish are cruising and staging.
Kokanee Salmon Runs
- In late summer and early fall, Kokanee salmon move toward the inlet, providing one of the most exciting and consistent fisheries of the year.
Ice Fishing
- During winter, the reservoir typically freezes over, and anglers can target lake trout and other species through the ice, often focusing on deeper structure and drop-offs.
Seasonal Highlights
- Spring (ice-off) – One of the best times for aggressive trout feeding
- Summer – Consistent trolling bite for trout and Kokanee
- Fall – Trophy brown trout activity and Kokanee spawn
- Winter – Productive ice fishing for lake trout
What sets Green Mountain Reservoir apart is its balance of accessibility, scenic beauty, and quality fishing. Compared to nearby waters, it often sees less pressure while still producing solid fish numbers and occasional trophy trout.
Whether you’re trolling deep water for lake trout, casting from shore for rainbows, or chasing Kokanee in the fall, Green Mountain offers a well-rounded Colorado fishing experience that appeals to both beginners and experienced anglers alike.
