Blue Tilapia
Blue Tilapia (Oreochromis aureus) is an invasive African cichlid that has established limited populations in Colorado.
This species is classified as "possibly established" in Colorado, with documented occurrences from 1983-1986 in the San Luis Valley near Alamosa in the Alamosa-Trinchera and San Luis watersheds.
Scientific Name: Oreochromis aureus
- Blue Tilapia are distinguishable from other cichlids by their blue-grey body with white belly, single nostril opening on each side of the head, and discontinuous lateral line.
- Adults typically range 5-8 inches but can reach up to 21 inches and weigh over 10 pounds.
- Males display bright metallic blue heads with vermillion dorsal fin edges during breeding season.
Fishing in Colorado
South Platte River
Arkansas River
Pueblo Reservoir
Tarryall Creek
Chatfield Lake
Cherry Creek
Grape Creek
Fountain Creek
Rampart Reservoir
Monument Creek
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- These fish were originally raised commercially for food in high-altitude geothermal waters and ponds, with reports of escaped fish establishing self-maintaining populations in two earthen ponds in 1977.
- Any current populations would be restricted to geothermally heated waters.
Key Locations
- San Luis Valley near Alamosa in the Alamosa-Trinchera and San Luis watersheds.
- Focus on areas near thermal inputs or springs that maintain warmer temperatures year-round.
Specific Spots
- Target shallow, warm waters with vegetation where they typically feed and seek cover.
Blue Tilapia FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Blue Tilapia in Colorado?
Since these fish are primarily herbivorous, avoid expensive live baits like worms and minnows. Instead, use vegetable-based baits such as peas, corn, or pieces of bread on smaller hooks with shorter lures.
What flies work for Blue Tilapia in Colorado?
For fly fishing, focus on patterns that imitate their preferred food sources: small midge patterns, mayfly emergers, chironomid patterns, and algae or vegetation imitations.
When is the best time to fish for Blue Tilapia in Colorado?
Spawning typically occurs when water temperatures exceed 72°F, so avoid targeting fish during active spawning periods. They spawn from spring through fall.
How do you catch Blue Tilapia in Colorado?
Blue Tilapia fishing opportunities in Colorado are extremely limited due to their restricted distribution and cold sensitivity, with any viable populations likely confined to geothermally heated waters in the San Luis Valley. Fish are most active during warmer parts of the day when water temperatures are optimal.
What do Blue Tilapia eat?
These fish are omnivorous with generalist diets, feeding on detritus, algae, vegetation, invertebrates, zooplankton (particularly rotifers, cladocerans, and Bosmina), and occasionally small fish.
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