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A Guide to Fishing in Rocky Mountain National Park

Image of Sprague Lake, Tyndall Glacier, and Hallett Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, USA.

With an abundance of streams and lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park, there are plenty of opportunities for anglers. A plethora of outfitters are in Estes Park, you can find everything you need for your fishing adventures. So cast in a line and discover our guide to fishing in Rocky Mountain National Park. Both novice casters and experts are welcome!

Best places for fishing in Rocky Mountain National Park

Within Rocky Mountain National Park, there are many lakes and rivers offering anglers plenty of opportunities to cast in a line. The Big Thompson River is where you’ll find rainbow and brown trout. It’s one of the best places for stream fishing! The Roaring River is where you can expect to find greenbacks. It’s as good as it gets with its remote location in the northern part of the park. 

There are also several lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park ideal for fishing. In fact, the park entrance closest to Estes Park offers the most fishing opportunities. Sprague Lake is great for high mountain trout and Dream Lake (the easiest to access) for cutthroat. If you are looking for a picturesque landscape along with your fishing excursion, hike to Loch Lake for smaller-size trout but big scenery. 

Be sure to do your research before you visit! Certain lakes don’t have any fish, and there are others that you are not legally allowed to fish at. For first-time fishers, there are guides and tours to help you navigate the waters and even learn how to fish.

Some popular fishing resources while in Estes Park include:

The Estes Park Mountain Shop

For more than 20 years, Estes Park Mountain Shop has served anglers and outdoor recreation enthusiasts with all their gear and equipment needs. You can purchase your fly-fishing equipment at the store or take a lesson and guided trip with the store’s fishing experts.

Scot’s Sporting Goods Guided Fly-Fishing Trips

Scot’s specializes in first-time fishing excursions and will teach you everything you’ll need to know. Scot’s does practice catch and release, so any brown or rainbow trout you catch will be put back in the water safely.

The trips are offered as four-, six-, or eight-hour trips, as well as private fishing trips. You will need to purchase a one-day Colorado fishing license, which can be purchased at the storefront, as well as a Rocky Mountain National Park pass.

Kirks Flyshop Guided Fly Fishing

Kirks also offers guided fly-fishing trips that last four, six, or eight hours and the rod, reel, waders, and flies are all included in the price. A snack and drink are included in the four-hour trip and a hearty lunch for the six and eight. You must also purchase a Colorado fishing license to fish on this trip.

Lake Estes Marina, Store, and Pavilion

For experienced anglers, you may wish to fly solo and find your own waters to fish in. There are several rental companies to pick up your rods from and a variety of fishing ponds to cast a reel. Situated on Lake Estes, you can stop in the marina store and purchase a fishing license and supplies before heading out on the water.

Stay at Brynwood on the River

Resting on the banks of the Big Thompson River, Brynwood on the River is the perfect companion to your fishing adventures in Estes Park. We offer a wide variety of Estes Park lodging options including cozy cabins on the river, cottages, and vacation homes. Cast in a line from your riverfront cabin and enjoy the outdoors on your private patio or deck for the ideal Estes Park getaway. Start planning your next mountain adventure and book your stay with Brynwood on the River!

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