The Best Places to Fish in Costilla County, CO

Costilla County Colorado is a great spot for anyone who loves the outdoors. One of the many things you can do here is spend time boating, fishing, or even fly-fishing. The area has plenty of walleye, pike, bass, trout, and a few other species of fish.

Costilla County is home to four main reservoirs: Mountain Home Reservoir, Sanchez Reservoir, Smith Reservoir, and Eastdale Reservoir. Because of Colorado’s conservancy efforts, these reservoirs have thriving wildlife and clean water. They are great places to spend the day on the water with family and friends fishing, sightseeing, and relaxing.

Sanchez Reservoir is a warm water lake, just a few miles to the south of San Luis, the oldest town in Colorado. Sanchez Reservoir also offers a breathtaking view of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. There’s great fishing, boating and camping in the area. Anglers will find a variety of species including catfish, perch, northern pike, carp and walleye. Head over to Sanchez Reservoir and experience one of the best places to fish in Colorado.

Smith Reservoir is located in the San Luis Valley, just south of Blanca Colorado. This reservoir is a cold-water lake and it is stocked annually with trout, so it makes a great fishing spot.

Mountain Home Reservoir is a cold-water lake fed by Trinchera Creek and is located in a state wildlife area near Ft. Garland. It has fantastic views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and has a nice population of rainbow trout and northern pike. There are many camping sites around Mountain Home and camping here is free, the kids will love it!

If you’re an experienced angler, check out Culebra Creek. This creek springs from the bottom of the Sanchez Reservoir, and is at the base of the stunning Culebra Peak. Enjoy fly-fishing in the nutrient rich waters year-round; catch some cutbows and monster browns, all while having a fantastic view. A Colorado fishing license is required to fish the private waters of Culebra Creek.

To learn more about obtaining a fishing license, and fishing rules and regulations please visit Colorado Fish & Wildlife. At the time of this writing, you can fish in Colorado without a license during the first week of June. Aside from that week, a Colorado fishing license is required. Additionally, Colorado residents over 65 can fish without a license.

Whether you’re fly-fishing, spinning, or bait casting, your chances of getting a bite in Costilla County are solid. So grab your favorite rod and reel, and head out to one of these favorite areas for a great adventure.